Sailing and Wildlife Tour Akaroa Fox II Sailing
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Sail inside the crater of an extinct volcano on a quiet, intimate wildlife cruise with a maximum of 30 guests. This small-group experience offers long, respectful encounters with some of the rarest dolphins in the world, set against dramatic volcanic scenery.
Enjoy a 3-hour eco-friendly sailing adventure aboard a peaceful sailboat, where the absence of engine noise allows close encounters with penguins, seals and albatross in their natural environment. Sail on the Fox II, New Zealand’s oldest ketch, over 100 years old, and be part of living maritime history.
Discover spectacular sea caves, cliffs and waterfalls, then venture into the open Pacific on a safe, serene and unforgettable journey. Low impact, authentic and nature-focused—this is one of New Zealand’s most unique sailing and wildlife experiences.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Akaroa Lighthouse
Built in 1880 and moved to this site in 1980. The original lighthouse from Akaroa Heads.
Akaroa
See Akaroa Harbour and all the animals including Hectors Dolphins, NZ Fur Seals, Little Blue Penguins and Albatross
What‘s Included
Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate and Biscuits
Local wine, beer and nonalcoholic beverages for purchase
Options
Sailing and Wildlife Tour Akaroa Fox II Sailing
Reviews
93 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great adventure!
H3122LVstevenc,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I’mAs someone who doesn't often leave reviews, I rarely do so, but this trip was exceptional. I had a fantastic experience with my kids, and I highly recommend it because of its great value. The captain and staff were excellent.
The Only Way to See Akaroa
Michele C,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a wonderful trip ! A boat with history, to match the township of Akaroa led by a man who obviously loves this area and is not only knowledgeable on a factual level but also able to share local knowledge as well . The sail through the heads was an absolute highlight today ! Make sure you don’t miss this opportunity !
Wonderful Cruise an exceptional experience!
D8585RAtimt,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly Recommended – Fox II Sailing Cruise with Captain Roy (Akaroa) Our cruise on the Fox II was exceptional. Captain Roy and his crew were incredibly knowledgeable, welcoming, and attentive. They took the time to share detailed insights about the area’s history, culture, and wildlife, which made the experience both relaxing and informative. The boat itself is fantastic—beautifully maintained, with a small group size that allows plenty of space to move around. We especially enjoyed being out on deck near the mast, taking in the fresh breeze and stunning scenery. Captain Roy is an excellent guide with deep knowledge of the region. During our cruise, we saw an abundance of wildlife—dolphins, numerous seabirds, and even a small colony of baby seals playing in tidal pools while waiting for their parents to return. That was a real highlight. The refreshments were also a nice touch—delicious cookies, tea, and hot chocolate were provided, with additional beverages like beer and kombucha available for purchase. One unique aspect was Captain Roy’s thoughtfully curated music playlist, perfectly matched to the moment. It added a special ambiance—at one point, “Waltzing Matilda” played, and later “Red Sails in the Sunset” as we moved along the water. When conditions allowed, the engine was cut and we sailed quietly, which made the experience even more peaceful and memorable. Overall, this was a truly enjoyable and well-run cruise. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Akaroa.
Brilliant
nicksL5130NK,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very highly rated. The crew are relaxed and very welcoming and clearly know their stuff. The Skipper's commentary brought everything to life and the background music was well chosen to add to the atmosphere! And sailing on a ketch with such history was a real USP!
Very nice tour with great explanations of history and nature.
Martin D,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain Roy and Amie were super committed. Dolphins were attracted to the music. Very nice and atmospheric tour.
Lovely trip out
Lindsey R,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00A great trip, mostly using the engine but also sail. Even when a warm day it can be cold out in the bay, so do take a windproof, though the crew provide coats if you are cold. The first drink offered is paid for (cans of soft drink, beer etc) 2nd on the way back is tea, coffee, hot chocolate and a cookie which is included. We saw dolphins multiple times, also seals and pups, various birds including a little blue penguin and an albatross. It was a very enjoyable trip, with the captain giving information on the bay. It was a lovely clear day so the bay was at its best
A unique way to see Akaroa Bay and Lake!
460micheleh,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A truly enjoyable morning yesterday! Roy, Emmie and Ocean looked after us very well and were very pleasant and informative. So nice to sail on a sailing boat. A different experience altogether to the usual boat experience. The music at our various stops really enhanced the experience, and the historical story Roy provided was enriching and enlightening. Such a gorgeous location! And so thrilled to see the unique, rare and small dolphins in the Bay. We also saw baby and mature seals. Highly highly recommend!
Wouldn’t we have missed 💪🏻
Ans S,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fine hazards and dolphins and seals seen
A must do in Akaroa
waynec937,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Great trip, Roy & Ocean were excellent, the Dolphins experience was terrific ( Ocean even shared her video with us ) , but it was very windy out there, rug up this is the NZ south coast 💕
One of the most memorable sailing experiences we've had in NZ
Sightseer09844046993,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic experience and great value. Roy and Emmie looked after us very well. Sailing with the Hector's dolphins at the harbour entrance was the highlight - but spotting seals and seabirds, the harbour scenery, and enjoying being under sail on such a beautiful old ketch all added to a wonderful 3h trip. Roy is a relaxed captain and provided an informative but not intrusive commentary.
From NZ$145.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Fox 2 Sailing Adventures