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Akaroa: Hector's Dolphins Nature Cruise from Christchurch

New9 hFree cancellationBy Cheeky Kea Tours
Akaroa: Hector's Dolphins Nature Cruise from Christchurch

About this activity

Most Akaroa day tours take you to the village. This one takes you into the harbour, with expert dolphin-spotting dogs on board to help find them.

The 2-hour Akaroa Nature Cruise is included in the tour price. You cruise Akaroa Harbour in search of Hector's dolphins, fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and sea birds. Hector's dolphins are found only in New Zealand's coastal waters. The dolphin-spotting dogs on board are trained to help the crew locate them.

Your group is capped at 15 people. En route, the tour stops at Little River for a coffee break, the Hilltop Lookout above Akaroa for panoramic views of the harbour and the volcanic crater, and Barry's Bay Traditional Cheese for an included tasting.

Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks are included. WiFi and USB charging on board. Carbon neutral tour.

Note: this tour is built around the Nature Cruise. There will not be time for additional walking tracks or extended shopping in Akaroa.

What's included

  • ✓Live guide commentary throughout
  • ✓Hotel pickup from Christchurch
  • ✓Carbon neutral tour
  • ✓WiFi on board
  • ✓Bottled water
  • ✓Lunch
  • ✓USB charging on board
  • ✓2-hour Akaroa Nature Cruise (included in tour price)
  • ✓Transport in a modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle
  • ✓Kiwi snacks
  • ✓Small-group experience, maximum 15 people

Not included

  • ✕Gratuities
  • ✕Additional activities and personal purchases in Akaroa, Little River and Barry's Bay
  • ✕Individual cheese purchases at Barry's Bay (cheese sampling is included)

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour is built around the Nature Cruise. There will not be time for additional walking tracks or extended shopping in Akaroa.
  • The Nature Cruise is included in your tour price. No separate booking is required.
  • Hector's dolphin sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed.
  • Guests prone to sea sickness should take precautions before boarding the cruise.
  • Bring a waterproof jacket. Weather on Banks Peninsula can change through the day.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended.
  • Pickup begins at 8:30 am. Please be ready and waiting outside at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
  • If your accommodation is not on the pickup list, meet the guide at the nearest available pickup point.
  • Child pricing applies for ages 4 to 14 years. Children under 4 are not able to participate.
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Not recommended for travellers with serious back conditions, heart conditions, or who are pregnant.
  • Service animals are not permitted on this tour.
  • The tour departs near public transportation.
  • Expert dolphin-spotting dogs on board: a unique feature on no other Akaroa tour.
  • Hector's dolphins on the 2-hour Nature Cruise, included in the tour price.
  • Small group, maximum 15 people. Not a coach, not a crowd.
  • Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks included. All-inclusive price.
  • Hilltop Lookout: panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and Banks Peninsula
  • Carbon neutral tour with WiFi and USB charging on board

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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