4.7 (371) · Akaroa · By Black Cat Cruises Free cancellation
Embark on a captivating cruise through the magnificent Akaroa Harbour. Discover New Zealand's unique marine life, including the rare Hector's dolphin, New Zealand fur seals, penguins, and various seabirds.
Our spacious and modern catamaran features expansive viewing decks and comfortable indoor seating, offering panoramic vistas. Enjoy insightful commentary from your experienced skipper.
Explore an ancient volcanic crater, admire towering sea cliffs reaching 500 feet, and witness vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation initiatives and the rich Māori and European heritage of Akaroa.
Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard are provided. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), this cruise is an essential experience for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and families.
As New Zealand's pioneering eco-tourism operator, we are proud to support dolphin protection efforts in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust.
✓ 2-hour nature cruise✓ GST (Goods and Services Tax)✓ Wildlife viewing opportunities✓ A complimentary postcard✓ Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate✓ Comprehensive on-board commentary✕ Gratuities for the crew✕ Hotel pick-up and drop-off servicesActivity Schedule
2 h
Observe Hector's dolphins in their natural habitat during a 2-hour wildlife cruise across the stunning Akaroa Harbour.
As you navigate the harbour, watch for Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest and rarest dolphin species, along with New Zealand fur seals, albatross, and other native seabirds. The journey follows the harbour's volcanic coastline, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the scenery and spot wildlife from the two open viewing decks.
Your skipper will share engaging stories about the harbour, its wildlife, conservation efforts, and the area's Māori and European history. You'll also witness the impressive volcanic cliffs and breathtaking landscapes.
The catamaran offers comfortable indoor seating and onboard amenities. Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are available throughout the cruise. You will also receive a complimentary postcard to take home.
Cruises operate daily year-round, excluding Christmas Day, subject to weather conditions.
This is a relaxing way to enjoy the water, encounter New Zealand's unique wildlife, and experience the beauty of Akaroa Harbour.
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Guests are required to check in at the Black Cat office, located at 61 Beach Road, a minimum of 30 minutes before their scheduled departure time.
Guests are required to check in at the Black Cat office, located at 61 Beach Road, a minimum of 30 minutes before their scheduled departure time.
We recommend wearing warm clothing, as a cool sea breeze can be present even on warm days.
Sunscreen and a hat are essential, even on cloudy days.
Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible views.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
This tour is wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller. Service animals are permitted on board. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap during the cruise. This activity is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Dress in layers as the sea breeze can be cool. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) even on overcast days. A camera is highly recommended for capturing the scenery and wildlife. Arrive at the check-in point at least 30 minutes before departure. Check in at the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road. This tour is suitable for all fitness levels. A full refund is available for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 3661AHC
Activity offered by Black Cat Cruises via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature lovers Wildlife enthusiasts Families Tourists seeking scenic beauty Witness rare Hector's dolphins in their natural habitat. Explore a stunning ancient volcanic crater and dramatic sea cliffs. Enjoy expert commentary from a knowledgeable skipper. Comfortable catamaran with spacious viewing decks. Support local conservation efforts. Ideal for families and nature lovers.
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 wildlife can I expect to see on the Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise? + You can expect to see Hector's dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, various seabirds like albatross, and potentially penguins.
What is included in the Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise? + The cruise includes a 2-hour nature cruise, GST, wildlife viewing, a postcard, tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and full on-board commentary.
What should I bring on the cruise? + We suggest wearing warm clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and bringing your camera.
Is the cruise suitable for all ages and fitness levels? + Yes, the cruise is suitable for all physical fitness levels, and infants are welcome (required to sit on an adult's lap). Strollers are also accommodated.
What is the cancellation policy? + For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Where do I check in for the cruise? + You need to check in at the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
★★★★★ Viator review
Great experience! Saw...
Susan_Y, October 2026
Great experience! Saw many dolphins and seals. The crew was knowledgeable and friendly. They made for a great afternoon!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great afternoon
DearbhlaM11, October 2026
Great afternoon with beautiful scenery, hectors dolphins, New Zealand fur seals,penguins and conservation focussed information. Recommend!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great service
Freedom49725317050, October 2026
Very friendly staff, great customer service, nothing was a bother for them. They even helped my granddaughter who had a broken arm up and down the ladder into the wheel house to drive the boat. They enjoyed their surprise day out with nana and Pop. Thank you to the staff for their service. We did not see dolphins that day so we’re given tickets to redo trip again, hopefully with better luck in seeing them.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Best experience in Akaroa
Inspire53225048133, September 2026
The nature cruise was beautiful, informative and we were fortunate enough to see Hector's dolphins, white flippers karora and kakeno. The trip was a good length of time and we learnt lots about the history of the harbour.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great day out in Akaroa
U9751BClesleys, August 2026
Great experience, loved Akaroa and the cruise and team aboard were great. Only 2 Hector dolphins but we did see them. Love to help recommend you, thanks for a great day out
Response from the operator · Black Cat Kia ora U97671BClesleys, thanks so much for taking the time to write us a review on TripAdvisor! So stoked to hear you had such a great time out with us and loved Akaroa - it's such a magic spot!!! Thank you for the recommedation and we hope you can come out and join us again soon. Thanks again for all the team at Black Cat Cruises.
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