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Water activity

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

4.9  / 5
29 reviews
Activity provider:Akaroa Dolphins
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Water activity

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Activity provider:Akaroa Dolphins
4.9  / 5
29 reviews
Likely to sell out

From $68.12 per person

Likely to sell out
Eco-certified
This activity, attraction, or activity provider has been certified eco-friendly by a third-party agency. GetYourGuide works with organizations from all over the world to bring you tours and activities that support sustainable practices.

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

Experience

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

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

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.
Likely to sell out

From $68.12 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
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Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 29 reviews

Review summary

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

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R
Rhona – CanadaOctober 27, 2023 – Verified booking
This was a fantastic trip! We saw Hector dolphins and a large seal. The skipper was great and the staff wonderful. Had a nice glass of wine and just enjoyed the tour so much! The bay is astonishing and we learned a lot if local history. We loved Baxter the dolphin seeking dog! Thanks so much for making our vacation special!!
Helpful?
G
Guy – CanadaMarch 20, 2023 – Verified booking
We lived an unforgettable moment: the Hector dolphins, the seals, the white penguins, were there. We were also treated to much more: local history, marine aquaculture, magnificent landscapes etc. The captain and his assistant made the cruise most enjoyable. Liette and Guy, Montreal
Helpful?

Product ID: 449851

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