10 minutes
Mobile ticket
Its a mini tour of the harbour as we cross from one side to the other.
The scenery is stunning, there are many birds to see on the way.
The skipper gives a commentary about the history and volcanic nature of the area, as well as the other interesting aspects we see on the way.
Comfortable custom built vessel, cushioned seats, heated cabin.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bicycles welcome at extra charge
Dogs welcome at extra charge
Not recommended for people who may have difficulty stepping (30cm) down, into the vessel. Or stepping back out.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You will receive an indepth commentary along the way and you will see birds, boats, old wrecks of ships and historic quarantine stations, in this interactive, exciting harbour crossing. Visit local cafes, restaurants, pubs, gift shops and museums on opposite side of the harbour. The vessel is partially enclosed. It is fast, comfortable and seats 20 people.
This is a return ticket
Duration: 10 minutes
Otago Harbour: From Portobello to Port Chalmers, or Quarantine Island. Return back after approx 2 hours. Go for a walk, or relax.
Ferry/water taxi: The vessel Sootychaser can take up to 20 passengers at a time.
You'll receive a full commentary on the way.
Pickup included
Duration: 10 minutes
Otago Harbour: Cruise across the harbour from Port Chalmers to Portobello or Quarantine Island. Stay for approx 2 hours before returning
Ferry/water taxi: The vessel Sootychaser can take up to 20 passengers at a time.
You'll receive a full commentary on the way.
Starting point:
39 Peninsula Beach Road, Port Chalmers, Dunedin 9023, New Zealand
137 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
manytanksalot,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Rachel took us out in a calm Sunday morning. She purposely does. It fill the boat to capacity so it was a comfortable trip. She’s hugely knowledgeable and has a really keen eye for the sea life and birds that we were trying to spot. We saw so much - sea lions, fur seals, Albatross Shags, Blue Penguins and much more. It was a fantastic trip, made all the better due to Rachel’s commentary and really engaging nature. This was a brilliant, can’t recommend it enough!
Juanita555,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such an incredible tour ! We had an absolutely wonderful time with the lovely Rach, so friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend anyone visiting Dunedin to jump on board and enjoy the ride 💚
gregmilne53,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is the forth time we have taken advantage of the great service Rachel provides. We use the Port to Port service to enable us to cycle from Portobella to Port Chalmers around the Dunedin harbor loop. Rachel provides a very friendly and interesting commentary regarding some of the history while crossing, from one port to the other. Highly recommend her service, whether your cycling or just popping from one side to the other and back. p.s. Great coffee at the little Portobella cafe too.

handley50,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We took the ferry along with our bikes to start the coastal trail - it was a short 10min journey but Rachel packed in so much information. Well worth the trip. Highly recommend.
GoPlaces23343463957,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Rachel was a lovely captain and very friendly. I initially had a problem with the booking, but was amazed by how she handled this professionally and also apologised on board the ferry. It was a great ride also, and definitely deserved all stars.
vanceb93,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We have wanted to ride around the harbour for a while , so organised to carry onto Dunedin after riding to Waihopae. This is a great wee family business. Rachael is easy to do business with, helpful and enthusiastic. As well as getting from A to B the bike transfer gives you a unique view of the harbour.
Global63336129292,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Excellent service. Rachel is very knowledgeable and friendly. She clearly loves what she is doing. The taxi service for us as bike riders is sooo good and worth the low cost fare to cycle around the Otago Harbour.👍👍👍👍
BenC5036,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great friendly service nothing was a problem
GeorgeWeeks,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I used Port to Port twice over a weekend; the first time was when travelling with my bicycle from Portobello to Port Chalmers; the second time was a trip to Quarantine Island. On both occasions the service was flawless; prompt, repliable, friendly and efficient. Rachel is the nicest and most competent skipper you could wish for; the bike transfer works a treat, booking is straightforward and the vessel handles the seas and bikes with aplomb. We had a bonus mini-detour to say hello to the local cormorants and a young fur seal. Unreservedly recommended...and the ride around the harbour really is quite lovely. Go and see it for yourself!


Expedition802454,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Incredibly efficient bike transfer service. Great commentary on the harbour past and present, so much information in just 10 minutes. Would definitely be taking this boat trip again if I lived locally.
Operated by Port To Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours Ltd