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.
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 Hector’s dolphins in their natural environment on a 2-hour wildlife cruise through beautiful Akaroa Harbour.
As you cruise through the harbour, keep an eye out for Hector’s dolphins, the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world, New Zealand fur seals, albatross and other native seabirds. The cruise takes you along the harbour’s volcanic coastline, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife from the two open viewing decks.
Your skipper shares stories about the harbour, its wildlife and conservation, as well as some of the area’s Māori and European history. You’ll also see the towering volcanic cliffs and stunning scenery along the way.
The catamaran has comfortable indoor seating and onboard facilities, and complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate are available during the cruise. You’ll also receive a complimentary postcard to take home.
Cruises operate daily throughout the year, except Christmas Day, weather permitting.
A relaxed way to get out on the water, see some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife and experience Akaroa Harbour.
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 (10)
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 343 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (10)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.
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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 tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
- 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 tour 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 tour 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 Cool Shore Excursions. 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 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What'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
