Small group guided sea kayaking in Akaroa marine reserve
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Our Guided Kayak Safari is a great way to spend your time in amazing Akaroa! This is a once in a lifetime chance to paddle through a marine reserve in an extinct volcano basin. Take in breath-taking scenery and witness amazing geology that is unique to the area. You may have chance sightings of some of the most endangered marine life on the planet including Hector Dolphins, White-flippered penguins, and native sea birds which reside in Akaroa Harbour. All of this is only 80 minutes from Christchurch!
Small group numbers are key as we are visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, enjoy exploring this marine reserve in a low-impact and environmentally responsible way with your local kayak/nature guide. Close encounters. No noise, No engines, No crowds, No pollution. So come and join us! Explore, Experience and Enjoy!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
You must be able to get in and out of your kayak unassisted.
Operates During summer months September-May
A maximum of 17 people per booking
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What‘s Included
Local guide
All kayaking equipment including spray skirts and jackets
Local taxes
Gratuities
Transportation to/from attractions
Snacks
What To Expect
Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari
Our Guided Sea Kayak Safari's take place in beautiful Akaroa- this is one of the best locations to sea kayak in NZ! Join us for a once in a lifetime opportunity to paddle through a marine reserve in an extinct volcano basin. Highlights include jaw dropping scenery, amazing geology that is unique to the area and the chance to see some of the most endangered marine life on the planet including Hector Dolphins, White-flipper penguins, NZ fur seals and native sea birds..Small group numbers are key as we are visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, enjoy exploring this marine reserve in a low-impact and environmentally responsible way with your own nature/kayak guide answering all of your questions along the way while keeping you safe on the water.. Close encounters. No noise, No engines, No crowds, No pollution. So come and join us! Explore, Experience and Enjoy! Paradise awaits only 80 minutes from Christchurch!
Options
Crater Cruiser Safari
3 hour guided kayak Safari , follow the volcanic trail through the flooded crater while learning about the area and searching for wildlife with your local knowledgeable guide.
Reviews
112 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Family fun
alisoncS8757XK,
Oct 25, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome trip, Max was our guide and pointed out cool caves and features, we all had a great time, would recommend, the water was very calm, perfect early morning trip
Excellent Sunset Paddle
Alexandra A,
May 15, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great paddle with Adam, who was very knowledgeable about the geography and history of the area and pointed out lots of birds and rock formations. The harbor was beautiful!
Fun and informative way to explore stunning volcanic coastline and see local wildlife!
Stefan C,
Apr 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00Strongly recommend! A highlight of my trip to picturesque Akaroa — our guide Adam was fantastic, offering knowledgeable commentary on the history and geology of the area and pointing out the varied wildlife all throughout a beautiful coastline-hugging loop. Very safety-conscious and really went out of his way to ensure everyone was enjoying themselves in terms of paddling pace and opportunities for photos. Thanks Adam!
Great kayaking experience
jordanng2025,
Apr 26, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00Adam took us out for a kayak today and we had an awesome time checking out the bay! He knows his stuff about Akaroa which was good to learn but we also had many laughs along the way. Definitely recommended 👌
Great tour, super guide!
BasiliusJ,
Apr 21, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic tour with a wonderful guide, Adam. I got great explenations for the nature of the bay ad Akaroa. Very scenic view over the landscape.
Brilliant day
Linda B,
Mar 26, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time kayaking in Akaroa today! It was my husband, my parents (in their 70s), and me, and we all had a blast. Our guide, William, was excellent—so knowledgeable, patient, and fun. He gave great advice, made us feel completely at ease, and provided top-notch service. The scenery was stunning, and the whole experience was well-organized and enjoyable. We couldn’t have asked for a better day on the water. Highly recommend this tour for all ages and abilities. Thank you, William, for making it such a memorable adventure!
Great experience!
samdX6198DC,
Mar 22, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience, amazing views, lucky enough to spot a dolphin and a lot of birds! Thanks very much to our very friendly guide Will!
Kayak guided tour
emelyneh2023,
Mar 22, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00A great time out in the kayaks with really fun and informative guides jack and will. Even had a sighting of a hector dolphin. Overall a great and good value for money day out
5 star
Voyage50493431926,
Mar 14, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely stunning views of akaroa along with plenty of wildlife. Guided by a very helpful informative and funny guide,Peter.
Fantastic kayak experience with amazing views, great guide, and lucky dolphin sightings!
SwethaPr17,
Feb 26, 2025
- Tripadvisor
5.00We had an absolutely fantastic afternoon on the guided sea kayak tour with Thomas. The weather was perfect, the water was pleasant and Thomas was an excellent guide (very knowledgeable, had our backs when we bumped our rudder around, and kept the group entertained - thanks Thomas!). The highlight of the trip was definitely spotting some Hectors dolphins up close! This is by far one of the best kayaking experiences we’ve had, a must-do in NZ for sure!
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Operated by Akaroa Guided Kayaks