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Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise

Activity Schedule

  • When does it run?

    Daily

  • Duration

    2 hours

  • Start time

    Nov - Apr: 1:30pm, 11:00am
    Dec - Mar:3:40pm
    Check-in 30 minutes prior to departure time.

  • Meeting Point
    Please make your way to Main Wharf, Akaroa.
  • Ending Point

    The activity ends at the starting point.

Key Highlights

  • A fabulous cruise that will give you a life-time of memories
  • Fantastic fun for all the family
  • Awesome scenery and incredible photo-opportunities
  • See rare dolphins, the world′s smallest penguin, and much more
  • Fascinating commentary from the skipper
  • Travel in the largest and most luxurious catamaran on Akaroa Harbour

Overview

Cradled in an extinct volcanic crater, Akaroa Harbour boasts some of the most magnificent coastal scenery in South Island.

Cruise Akaroa Harbour in a large catamaran enjoying spectacular views of the soaring volcanic cliffs and magnificent sea caves. Your knowledgeable skipper will tell you all about the history and natural history of the area.

Lots of thrilling wildlife will be waiting for you! See fur seals sunning themselves on the rocks. Look out for the rare, native dolphin – the Hector's or New Zealand Dolphin, and the world's smallest penguin, the white-flippered little Blue Penguin.

This glorious cruise also includes views of a salmon farm, Cathedral Cave and interesting relics of Akaroa's rich history.

Itinerary

For your thrilling Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise you should make your way to the historic village of Akaroa, 90 minutes drive from Christchurch.

You will board a modern catamaran, 60 foot (20 metres) in length – perfect for viewing the natural wonders of Akaroa Harbour. The cruise is fully narrated by your skipper who has extensive knowledge of the nature, wildlife and history of the area.

Your trip takes you around the picturesque harbour which lies in the crater of an extinct volcano. You will see many sea caves and spectacular volcanic cliffs. One cliff has a sheer 500-foot face and a fascinating history, while Nikau Palm Gully is the southernmost limit for tropical palm trees. There is also the incredible Scenery Nook, an amazing pink, purple and red volcanic amphitheatre that will take your breath away.

You will see the fabulous marine wildlife of this coast. This includes the rare, native dolphin – the Hector's or New Zealand Dolphin. There is also the chance to spot the world's smallest penguin, the white-flippered little Blue Penguin, fur seals and other sea birds, including five different cormorant (shag) species and the endangered yellow-eyed penguin.

Other cruise highlights are a working salmon farm, Cathedral Cave and signs of Akaroa's fascinating past including early Maori, French and British settlements.

There's lots of room on the two decks for unimpeded viewing and plenty of covered seating, for shade and shelter. Inside there's a bar and toilets. Free tea and coffee are provided on board plus a free Hector's fun activity book for children and a postcard.

At the end of the cruise you will be dropped back at Main Wharf, Akaroa.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour harbour cruise
  • Commentary in English
  • Tea and coffee
  • Free “Hector's Fun Activity Book” for children and postcard

Exclusions

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Transportation

Additional info

The confirmation voucher includes the local activity operator’s contact details and local telephone numbers at the destination. They will happily answer any logistical questions you may have.The maximum number of passengers in the catamaran is 99We request you to bring warm clothing, waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera.

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