Otago Harbour Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Join us for an invigorating wildlife cruise experience. By the time you get back to your ship you’ll know why Dunedin is the Nature Capital of New Zealand.
The cruise will travel around beautiful wharves and boatsheds, then through the historic Quarantine Islands. You’ll see the Careys Bay fishing village and its motley collection of boats before continuing along the harbour. Enjoy a nice hot drink and biscuit for morning tea.
As you arrive at the entrance to the Otago Harbour you’ll see the tidal Aramoana sandflats and the spectacular volcanic cliffs of Taiaroa Head. You’ll see the royal albatross breeding colony, the only mainland colony in the world. Beneath a picturesque lighthouse you’ll find a large population of fur seals, watch as they swim, play and sleep on rocky platforms close to the boat. A short way out to sea we often spot other species of albatross and seabirds. We sometimes see dolphins, sea lions and blue penguins. Don’t forget your camera!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guests will need to be able to board the boat via two steps.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Complimentary hot drink and a biscuit
Complimentary binoculars
Complimentary warm and waterproof jackets
Wildlife spotters guide
We do not serve a full meal on this tour. Guests are welcome to bring snacks with them.
What To Expect
You'll cruise around the beautiful Taiaroa Head. Enjoy the postcard views of the historic lighthouse and spot Royal Albatross and NZ Fur Seals
See the stunning Otago Harbour. Explore the beautiful bays, islands and fishing villages along the way.
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Otago Harbour Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
Reviews
16 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The tour was prompt for...
Florence P,
Mar 19, 2025
- Viator
3.00The tour was prompt for pickup at the cruise terminal. The boat was clean and the guides were friendly. However, we had expectations to get closer to wildlife to get photographs. We saw an albatross floating in the water and got close enough to photograph. But, we were too far away from the rocks with sea lions to get any decent photos.
Very friendly crew. ...
Shirley M,
Mar 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very friendly crew. Prompt pickup from the cruise terminal and very easy to locate. On board they have binoculars and jackets if you get cold. We saw the white capped albatross, seals and various other wildlife.
Wonderful day
Brooke S,
Mar 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We learned a lot on this trip and saw some rare birds (king cormorant and albatross), in addition to seals, a dolphin, and many nesting birds. Great commentary and history. It was a beautiful day. Highly recommend!
Interesting and well organised tour
DENISE H,
Jan 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00We enjoyed this boat tour and the commentary was very good. We saw New Zealand fur seals and albatrosses at the rookery and in flight, plus several other species of sea birds. The day we went was cold and rainy (not unexpected in Port Chalmers!) so we appreciated the additional warm jackets that were supplied and a hot cuppa on board.
Birds galore!
Linda B,
Dec 30, 2024
- Viator
5.00This was a small group experience which allows for good interaction with the staff. We were given a fleece/raincoat due to misty weather which allowed us to sit outside for a better view. We saw many varieties of birds. Seeing several Albatross in flight was amazing. We saw baby fur seals and a sea lion. The trip exceeded our expectations. Will was an excellent guide!
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