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Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Top rated
4.9183006 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.9183006 out of 5 stars
306 reviews
Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise
Top rated
4.9183006 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.9183006 out of 5 stars
306 reviews

Embark on a sightseeing cruise and soak up the natural beauty of Akaroa Harbor. Keep an eye out to spot the rare Hector's dolphin and enjoy a drink and snack while taking in the picturesque scenery.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

J
Janina – New Zealand

Weather was perfect. Captain knew exactly where to look for the dolphins, and spent time explaining how the area was formed, and the rock formations. Also saw seals as well. Hot and cold drinks and home made cookies on offer as well. Very enjoyable.

D
Donna – New Zealand

From the moment my husband and I stepped onto boat we were made to feel welcomed and offered a drink, the crew could not have been more helpful and kind and very knowledgeable

Select participants and date

Participants

Highlights

  • Have a close encounter with the rare Hector's dolphins.
  • Along the way, you will also learn about our incredible history.
  • View sea caves & spectacular volcanic formations.
  • Discover NZ fur seals, penguins, seabirds that also call the harbour home.
  • See our dolphin-spotting dogs in action.

Full description

Embark on a journey of discovery with the knowledgable crew and expert dolphin-spotting dogs, as they unveil the breathtaking highlights, enchanting magic, and captivating wonder that Akaroa Harbour has to offer.

This company holds a Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, meaning legally they are able to take guests to view dolphins & seals. Only two permitted companies operate all year round. For conservation reasons, they do not swim with the dolphins.

Their luxurious low-lying catamaran provides a closer encounter with the rare Hector's dolphins. Along the way, you will also learn about the incredible history & see NZ fur seals, penguins, seabirds, sea caves & spectacular volcanic formations.

Enjoy a complimentary drink of local NZ wine, beer, or juice, as well as delicious home baking.

A 100% locally owned & operated family business, going back 7 generations to the area, who are committed to raising awareness with a portion of your fare going towards conservation efforts protecting the precious wildlife & marine environment.

Please note, they have a high success rate with dolphin sightings all year round, as we are in a hotspot for the Hector's dolphins. However, as the dolphins are wild they can never guarantee to see them. If your tour does not see a dolphin, you will be offered another trip free of charge. No refunds will be given in the event of not seeing dolphins.

To learn more please visit their website.

Includes

  • 2-Hour Dolphins Nature Cruise
  • Personal Experience
  • Welcoming & Knowledgable Tour Guides
  • Dolphin Spotting Dogs
  • Included is a complimentary glass of award-winning wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options, as well as freshly homemade cookies
  • Engaging commentary in English
  • Sunscreen
  • Warm Jackets
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Child Friendly
  • Luxurious & Stable Catamaran
  • Flushable Toliet
  • Flittered Water
  • Swimming with dolphins

Meeting point

You must exchange your voucher at the ticket counter before the tour begins. You have to be there 30 minutes prior to the departure time to check in.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Warm clothing
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen

Not allowed

  • Smoking

Know before you go

  • Check-in no later than 30 minutes prior to departure.
  • As the dolphins are wild we can never guarantee to see them but have a high success rate.
  • Akaroa is roughly a 90-minute drive from Christchurch and Lyttelton Port. Please leave with plenty of time.
  • Passengers of all ages are welcome, from newborns to seniors, as the vessels are very stable, have secure railings, various indoor and outdoor areas to choose from, and space for pushchairs, etc. Have plenty of lifejackets aboard, including those for infants and children, however, if you are travelling with young children, for their safety they must be supervised at all times.
  • Cater to passengers with disabilities and welcome customers in wheelchairs with an able-body companion.
  • Please be on time. If you are late, you will not receive a refund or be able to join your harbour cruise. Like a plane, your cruise will leave as scheduled whether you are there or not.

From $72 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 306 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.8/5

Customer photos

+79
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J
Janina – New ZealandMay 10, 2025 – Verified booking
Weather was perfect. Captain knew exactly where to look for the dolphins, and spent time explaining how the area was formed, and the rock formations. Also saw seals as well. Hot and cold drinks and home made cookies on offer as well. Very enjoyable.
D
Donna – New ZealandApril 20, 2025 – Verified booking
From the moment my husband and I stepped onto boat we were made to feel welcomed and offered a drink, the crew could not have been more helpful and kind and very knowledgeable
A
Alison – AustraliaApril 13, 2025 – Verified booking
Beautiful day, plenty of room on the boat, staff very friendly including Archie the dog, informative, we saw dolphins & seals, loved it and would recommend

Product ID: 449851

Activity provider:Akaroa Dolphins
  • New Zealand
  • South Island
  • Akaroa Harbour

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