5.0 (2.3 k) · Akaroa · By Akaroa Dolphins Free cancellation
We are a family-run business with deep roots in Banks Peninsula, with our management team being 6th and 7th generation locals. Our dedicated team is passionate about ensuring you have an unforgettable experience!
We limit our passenger numbers to provide ample space for everyone to move around the boat and enjoy the cruise without feeling crowded. This also ensures you won't miss any dolphin sightings due to limited viewing areas. Our boat's low profile allows for closer encounters with the wildlife!
Upon boarding, you'll be offered a complimentary drink. Choose from a selection of local beer, award-winning regional wine, or non-alcoholic beverages. You'll also be treated to our renowned homemade baked goods, made from a cherished family recipe and served by our friendly onboard crew.
Our commitment extends to the conservation of our harbour's environment and its wildlife, as it forms the heart of our operations.
Please note that check-in is required 30 minutes before departure, with boarding commencing 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time.
✓ Expert local skipper and guide✓ Delicious homemade cookie (made from a family recipe)✓ Complimentary beverage (choice of beer, New Zealand wine, or non-alcoholic option)✕ Opportunity to swim with dolphins (for conservation reasons)✕ Transportation to AkaroaActivity Schedule
2 h
As a holder of a New Zealand Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, we are legally authorized to take guests on dolphin and seal viewing tours. We are proud to be one of only two year-round operators in Akaroa Harbour with this permit, so we encourage you to choose responsibly.
Embark on a 2-hour nature cruise aboard our luxury catamaran through Akaroa Harbour, a prime location for spotting Hector's dolphins, White-flippered penguins, and New Zealand fur seals. While sightings of wild animals cannot be guaranteed, we have a high success rate. Should you not see dolphins, you are welcome to join us again for free. Our welcoming check-in team, skilled skippers, onboard guides, and expert dolphin-spotting dogs (equipped with life vests) are dedicated to making your experience memorable.
For conservation purposes, we do not offer opportunities to swim with the dolphins.
If you wish to redeem a voucher, promotion code, or Top10 membership card, please contact us directly by phone or email. Discounts cannot be applied after an online booking has been completed.
Kindly be aware that check-in must be completed no later than 30 minutes before departure, with boarding taking place 15 minutes beforehand.
Akaroa Lighthouse Akaroa Banks Peninsula
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Check-In: 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding: 15 minutes prior.
Please note: Akaroa is approximately a 90-minute drive from Christchurch and Lyttelton Port.
Check-In: 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding: 15 minutes prior.
Please note: Akaroa is approximately a 90-minute drive from Christchurch and Lyttelton Port.
Check-in is required no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, with boarding commencing 15 minutes beforehand.
Please contact us via email or phone 24 hours before your cruise for an update on sea and weather conditions.
Please be advised that swimming with dolphins is not permitted on our tours.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
This tour is wheelchair accessible. Infants and young children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller. Service animals are permitted on board. Convenient public transportation options are available nearby. Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap during the tour. Specialized infant seats are available upon request. Transportation options to the departure point are wheelchair accessible. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. We do not offer opportunities to swim with the dolphins. Akaroa Dolphins 2-Hour Cruise
Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Arrive at the check-in point at least 30 minutes before departure. Dress in layers as the weather can change on the water. Bring a camera to capture the incredible wildlife. Consider the drive from Christchurch; allow ample travel time. Enjoy the complimentary drink and cookie – a delightful touch! To receive a full refund, please ensure you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 173250P1
Activity offered by Akaroa Dolphins via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature enthusiasts Wildlife lovers Families Couples Solo travelers Witness Hector's dolphins, penguins, and seals in their natural habitat. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour cruise on a luxury catamaran. Benefit from a low-profile boat for closer wildlife viewing. Savor complimentary local drinks and homemade treats. Support a business committed to conservation efforts. Small group sizes for a more intimate experience.
Population 756 (2018)
Elevation 52 m
Currency New Zealand dollar
Official languages Māori, English
Driving on the left
Power plugs I · 230 V
Emergency number 111
Capital city Wellington Average temperatures 15° Jan 15° Feb 14° Mar 13° Apr 11° May 9° Jun 9° Jul 9° Aug 10° Sept 11° Oct 12° Nov 14° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the Akaroa Dolphins cruise? + The cruise lasts for 2 hours.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed? + While we have a high success rate, sightings of wild animals cannot be guaranteed. If you don't see dolphins, you can cruise with us again for free.
Can I swim with the dolphins? + No, for conservation reasons, swimming with the dolphins is not permitted on our tours.
What should I do if I have a voucher or promotion code? + Please contact us directly via phone or email to redeem vouchers, promotion codes, or Top10 membership cards. Discounts cannot be applied after an online booking.
What are the check-in and boarding times? + Check-in is required 30 minutes prior to departure, and boarding begins 15 minutes beforehand.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs? + Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
A perfect dolphin viewing cruise.
dorhon911, October 2026
Outstanding trip!!! George and Lucy were great. Despite the beginnings of a storm moving in he made every effort to allow us to see dolphins - which we did - several of them! Then off to see the little seals. Captain Louie was a great crew member though watch out when you get your biscuits! He’ll try and eat it!! Definite not miss when you’re in Akaroa.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fabulous Akaroa Dolphin Trip
Roam16379769201, October 2026
We had an amazing trip.We saw dolphins and seals.The staff of Lucy,Gearge and the lad from Germany Mieke i think and including onshore staff were so friendly and helpful and were happy to chat and explain things to us.The captain was full of local knowledge and found him easy to hear,which i appreciated as I have a hearing problem.He has a wealth of knowledge and history of the area.Loved the dog Louie,who was very cute and friendly.We all enjoyed the experience.The boat was spotless and had plenty of seating and areas to see things.Thank you for an amazing trip.I would recommend this trip.Kind Regards Julie,Peter,Margaret and Dolf
Response from the operator · AkaroaDolphins Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear you all had such a wonderful time out on the harbour. It’s fantastic to hear that the crew and our onshore team made you feel so welcome.
★★★★★ Viator review
Christchurch locals
Ron_A, October 2026
Very Professional, friendly crew, offered a drink and homemade cookies, skipper knowledgeable about the history of the Nature Tour
Response from the operator · AkaroaDolphins Thank you for your lovely review! We’re so pleased you enjoyed your cruise with us.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Amazing experience!!!
Connector45130049432, October 2026
We had the best experience today, such value for money with extra treats like a complimentary drink, cookie and the offer of warm coats if needed, not to forget the lovely Theo!! Molly and Lucy welcomed us and the skipper shared lots of local and historic knowledge, I will particularly remember the rock sausages!! We were lucky to see beautiful Hector Dolphins - thank you for such a wonderful experience which will be added to our honeymoon memories!!
Response from the operator · AkaroaDolphins Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted you had such a wonderful experience with us and that we could be part of your honeymoon memories.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Saw so many dolphins, amazing tour
P2876PHemilym, October 2026
Really really great experience, we saw so many hectors dolphins, 2 pairs of mother and babies!! They swam right under the boat. We also saw so many cool birds, which the tour guides on the boat pointed out and named every single one, including the huge brown one that hunts and eats penguins (woah). We saw seals and one penguin, luckily not being eaten by the predator bird. We sat right up the front of the boat, best spot. Also did a tour of the stunning rock formations and caves. Albie the dog was super cute, maybe not so much at spotting dolphins but certainly good at shaking paws for treats. Absolutely loved the whole tour, very much worth the money. Booked direct with the tour on their website. Super easy to get tickets from the office and walk down the jetty.
Response from the operator · AkaroaDolphins Thank you so much for such a fantastic and detailed review! We’re thrilled you had such an incredible day.
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