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You will see
- Akaroa Harbour
- Giant volcanic sea cliffs
- Hopefully the Hector's Dolphin
- Penguins and other sea birds
- Stunning coastal scenery
From Cruise Port: Akaroa-Christchurch
Experience some of New Zealand's unique and endangered wildlife on this stunning harbour cruise. One of the main highlights will hopefully be a glimpse of the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world - the Hector's Dolphin. You may also see the White-Flippered Penguin (the smallest penguin in the world) and up to five different cormorant (shag) species. Plus see numerous other bird species such the endangered Yellow-eyed Penguin, and New Zealand Fur Seals will be sunning themselves on the rocks near Seal Bay.
The crew do all they can to show you the fantastic wildlife plus the scenery is breathtaking. See many sea caves and volcanic cliffs as Akaroa Harbour was once a live volcano millions of years ago. There are many spectacular ancient lava flows to be seen. One cliff has a sheer 500-foot face and a fascinating history, while Nikau Palm Gully is the southernmost limit for these tropical palm trees. There is also the incredible Scenery Nook - an amazing pink, purple and red volcanic amphitheatre that will take your breath away.
The tour (on a modern 60 ft catamaran) begins at the same wharf where your ships tenders bring you - it could not be easier! The vessel is the largest and most luxurious on the harbour and is perfect for viewing the wildlife that calls Akaroa Harbour home.
With two decks for unimpeded viewing and plenty of covered seating for shade and shelter the vessel is both stable and safe. Onboard facilities include a bar and toilets. Relax, stretch out and discover the harbour with an award winning team.
A full narrative is provided by the skipper who has extensive knowledge of the nature, wildlife and history of the harbour.
From Cruise Port: Akaroa-Christchurch
Not Included
- Any meals, but snacks including chips and soft drinks are available on board for purchase.
Instructions
- Bring a camera as you will definitely need one to capture the wildlife memories.
- Like any outdoor activity, this tour is affected by the weather so we suggest you wear warm clothing, as even on warm days, there may be a cool sea breeze blowing. Sun screen and a hat is also recommended due to the strength of the sun in New Zealand.
- Under 5's travel for free.
Restrictions
- While you should see dolphins on this cruise you will not be able to swim with them. If you would like to swim with the dolphins please check out our AKA-9 tour.
Standard Tour Schedule Options | ||
|---|---|---|
| start time | end time | |
| Harbour Nature cruise - 10.45am departur | 10:45 | 13:00 |
| Harbour Nature Cruise - 1.30pm tour | 13:30 | 15:30 |
| Note: Start and end times may be revised to suit ETA / ETD of ship in port | ||
Standard Tour Prices (current) | |
|---|---|
| Adult price | NZ $90.00 |
| Child price (5 to 15 yrs) | NZ $35.00 |
NOTE: Prices may vary depending on your Date of Travel.
Our Booking procedures quote the applicable prices before you commit to a Booking.
Skipper Kate and crew Helen were soooo enthusiastic about what we might see....and they delivered! Do you guys pay the wildlife!!?? Kate was a great skipper with calm, interesting knowledge passed onto her flock ( Passengers!) via the on board intercom and Helen was equally helpful with pointing out wildlife if we missed Kates cue. The boat was extremely comfortable and well driven ( Thanks Kate!) and they made sure we saw Albatros, fur seals, penguins and dolphins...alas no Orca or Humpbacks. To note also the office crew were equally helpful when booking the cruise. Well done guys, keep up the good work...Paul from BOI
Kiwilint, via TripAdvisor [May 18]
Julia K, via TripAdvisor [Apr 18]
Texas Raf, via TripAdvisor [Apr 18]
How do we find the meeting point?
Full details are provided on the voucher when your booking is confirmed. The meeting point is on the same jetty where the cruise ship tenders drop you, it could not be easier.
Can I swim with the Dolphins?
Not on this tour option. We do have the Dolphin Swim tour code AKA-9 if you want to do this.
Can you take my wheelchair on this tour?
The boat is wheelchair accessible but passengers are limited to the rear of the boat, which is quite comfortable on fine days, but can be a bit chilly on cooler days & at times viewing can be limited. If passenger has some mobility, and able to get out of chair, they are able to enter into the main cabin & quite comfortably enjoy the cruise from the cabin, but there is a 30cm lip (door sill) to get over to access the main cabin. For health and safety , we require passengers in wheelchairs, to be assisted by an able bodied companion.
