Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Overview
Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. Set aboard a spacious, modern catamaran with large viewing decks and indoor seating, this award-winning nature cruise offers comfort, panoramic views, and expert commentary from your knowledgeable skipper. You’ll explore an ancient volcanic crater, marvel at towering 500-foot sea cliffs and vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation efforts and Akaroa’s rich Māori and European history. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), it’s a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers and families alike. As New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator, we’re proud to support the dolphin protection efforts alongside the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust. Your ticket directly supports this work.
What's Included
- 2-hour nature cruise
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Wildlife viewing
- Postcard
- Tea, coffee or hot chocolate
- Full on-board commentary
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop off
Meeting Location
61 Beach Road
Akaroa 7520, New Zealand
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
See rare Hector’s dolphins up close in the wild, along with NZ fur seals, little blue penguins, albatross, and other native seabirds on this award-winning cruise. Board a spacious, modern catamaran with two open viewing decks, indoor seating, and onboard facilities. Travel through Akaroa Harbour, an ancient volcanic crater, as your expert skipper shares insights into the region’s marine life, conservation, and rich Māori and European history. Marvel at 500-foot cliffs, the vibrant colours of Scenery Nook, and the southernmost grove of native Nikau palms. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate and take home a free postcard. Cruises run daily all year (apart from Christmas Day), weather permitting. A New Zealand must-do for nature and wildlife lovers. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and postcard included.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(9)Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-3661AHC
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.82 out of 5 stars based on 338 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
Similar Adventures & Tours
Join one of the best kayak adventures in New Zealand, jump into a safe stable NZ made sea kayak and follow our local guides as...
$77.53
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...
$77.53
Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise
At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have...
$74.94
Adventurers Who Bought This Adventure Also Bought
Akaroa guided kayak safari provide a premium 3 hour guided sea kayak safari with a local nature/sea kayak guide through's pristine marine reserve and harbour....
$89.17
Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise
At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have...
$74.94
Shamarra Alpaca Farm Tours
Alpacas Farm is an unparalleled opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas, learn about this loving animal, and create some memories with friends...
$34.87
Escape city lights to Akaroa's pristine dark skies for our intimate "Night Awe" tour. Join expert astronomer Luca for a captivating experience through the Southern...
$62.44
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Top10Adventures® customers.
Filter by:
As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the adventure start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the adventure start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the adventure start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the adventure local time (NZST).
- 2-hour nature cruise.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax).
- Wildlife viewing.
- Postcard.
- Tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
- Full on-board commentary.
- Gratuities.
- Hotel pickup and drop off.
This adventure requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 5. This adventure requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise will be included in your confirmation email from Top10Adventures®. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- 2-hour nature cruise
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Wildlife viewing
- Postcard
- Tea, coffee or hot chocolate
- Full on-board commentary
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop off
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 99 travelers
