On the Water
2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 99% of travellers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$120
per adult
Akaroa Dolphins
Akaroa Dolphins
5
Boat ToursEco ToursSightseeing ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Let our crew including our dolphin-spotting dogs take you on a journey of discovery. We hold a Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, meaning legally we are able to take guests to view dolphins & seals. We are one of only two permitted companies that operate all year round. Our luxurious low-lying catamaran provides a closer encounter with the rare Hector's dolphins. Along the way, you will also learn about our incredible history & see NZ fur seals, penguins, seabirds, sea caves & spectacular volcanic formations. Enjoy a complimentary drink of local NZ wine, beer, or juice, as well as delicious home baking. As a 100% locally owned & operated family business, going back 7 generations to the area, we are committed to raising awareness with a portion of your fare going towards conservation efforts protecting our precious wildlife & marine environment. Please note for conservation reasons, we DO NOT swim with the dolphins. To learn more please visit our website.
Akaroa, New Zealand
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
2,870 reviews
Excellent
2,759
Very good
93
Average
12
Poor
5
Terrible
2
Erin C
Brisbane, Australia135 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Akaroa Harbour is a natural beauty. This cruise had one of the most interesting commentaries I've had on this type of trip. The owner operators are friendly & chatty, it felt like being on a cruise with friends. Refreshments were included. The boat is new & spacious & they limit passenger numbers.
Best of all the wildlife came to play. The Gogeous Hector Dolphins are beautiful, a Mum even turned up to introduce her calf to the boat.😍
Highly recommend this one.
Best of all the wildlife came to play. The Gogeous Hector Dolphins are beautiful, a Mum even turned up to introduce her calf to the boat.😍
Highly recommend this one.
Written 16 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Akaroa is definitely a natural beauty, we are unbelievably luck to have it's gifts of nature in our backyard and that we get to share it with you! Thank you so much for choosing us, our local & family owned business. Best wishes from the Team at Akaroa Dolphins.
Written 17 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MAB47
Pascoe Vale, Australia15 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
The tour was informative and interesting. We saw Hector’s Dolphins, fur seals and a Northern Giant Petrel floating in the sea, penguins and cormorants, as well as historical Landmarks. When we passed over krill floating in the sea, a crew member raised some in a net and after we all saw them, they were returned to the sea. Beautiful scenery. Two hours well spent.
Written 24 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are happy to hear that you had a fabulous cruise, and that you found it informative and interesting. The krill are pretty cool when you see them up close. Thanks for supporting us!
Written 25 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BrisChic
Brisbane, Australia32 contributions
Jan 2020
This was a very relaxed, informative and enjoyable tour. The boat is slick and new and very stable. First Mate Albie the Dolphin Detection Dog was a bit sleepy but on the job, and we saw Hector dolphins (including a mother and calf), fur seals and penguins. Captain Stew and his assistant were very friendly and accommodating. I’d happily go again tomorrow.
Written 27 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for choosing Akaroa Dolphins, which is locally and family run, we really appreciate the rating and review! Especially when you have such kind words about the boat, Albie and the crew! Please do come again next time you're back in Akaroa. Hehe.
Written 27 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pernille J
1 contribution
Jan 2023 • Couples
Awesome experience, awesome crew and awesome boat! An absolute highlight and must do, if you’re around. Had a great morning trip, with heaps of dolphins up close, seals, an albatross and a top cute little penguin! The crew and captain delivered interesting and entertaining guiding of the environment and history, making sure we came home with much more than expected. New and sweet boat with lots of space for moving around, as they don’t fill the seats completely to give a more spacious experience.
Thanks again for a great day at the water!
Thanks again for a great day at the water!
Written 31 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your legendary review! We really appreciate hearing you enjoyed the boat too.
Written 2 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim N
15 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
This tour is a must do if you are in the Akaroa area or from Christchurch. Take the time to do this tour. It was amazing. We have done a lot of boat tours and this one was hands down the best tour we have ever done. The captain was fantastic and his mate Sarah was just great, but Buster the dolphin spotting dog stole the show. He was hard at work spotting dolphins and took his job very serious. So adorable!
We saw so many Hector dolphins and they swam along side of us on the boat. They are gorgeous. We also saw lots of seals up close and even blue penguins from far away. The captain was so knowledgeable of the history of the area and the marine life. Our return trip even included a chocolate chip cookie. The boat is new and intimate and this family run company does not pack you on like on bigger boat tours. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company.
We saw so many Hector dolphins and they swam along side of us on the boat. They are gorgeous. We also saw lots of seals up close and even blue penguins from far away. The captain was so knowledgeable of the history of the area and the marine life. Our return trip even included a chocolate chip cookie. The boat is new and intimate and this family run company does not pack you on like on bigger boat tours. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company.
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience, it means a lot to us!
Written 1 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrew B
3 contributions
Jan 2023 • Solo
It was completely beyond expectation from the professional approach to us, the expectant customer, through to the obvious care shown and explained to all onboard regarding the environment,its history and the amazing wildlife we were ,hoping,its nature after all , going to enjoy. The little touches of a drink, cookie and spare coats for those who hadn't come fully prepared was so lovely. Buster the dog,yes for those who haven't been,Buster the dolphin spotter added a further element to the adventure. O and YES dolphins were seen close up and spectacular. So impressed by the whole 2 hours, felt more like 30 mins , time went far too fast,that I have bought a gift voucher for the friends I am staying with in Wellington as a thank you gift for the whole family. So to sum up,don't think about doing it just book !
Written 9 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Awwww thank you Andrew! What a joy to read you had such a wonderful time.
Written 9 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Natalie J
2 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
Modern boat, friendly staff, pristine waters, fresh sea air and a dog! I didn't even care if we saw penguins, dolphins or seals - but we did, which was a bonus. If you're lucky enough to strike sunny weather it's absolutely worth the cost of the ticket.
Written 8 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you!
Written 9 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maree C
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Family
We had an outstanding afternoon and encountered many dolphins, seals and penguins. The skipper was first class as well as informative and friendly. The staff were delightful, including Buster the dog, who is trained to detect the dolphins echo. It was amazing value for money. Only $110 per person which included an almost two hour tour, a free beverage and a homemade cookie. I can’t fault this trip. Highly professional, a fantastic day out and my adult kids loved it as well.
Written 7 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is brilliant to read, thank you so much for your comments and for taking the time to write us a review. So glad you all enjoyed it!
Written 7 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Claire Z
Auckland Central, New Zealand2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Fantastic boat trip, Buster the dog heard the dolphins, raced around the boat indicating they were close, then we saw them!! so awesome.
Felt safe with a professional and friendly crew.
Absolutely recommend it.
Felt safe with a professional and friendly crew.
Absolutely recommend it.
Written 30 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your lovely review, Claire! Glad you felt safe too.
Written 1 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Val W
8 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
We saw Dolphins! The crew were so helpful in spotting the penguins, seals and dolphins, as was Buster the dolphin spotting dog. Our Captain gave us lots of interesting information about the geography and history of the area and the refreshments were a nice touch. This was a very special experience. Thank you.
Written 6 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, Val! Thrilled to hear you had a wonderful time.
Written 6 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nice to meet you, I would like to apply for the tour on November 19, 2022.
Due to hotel schedules on the day, we have to be back in Christchurch by 4:30pm.
Will this tour finish by 3pm?
Written 16 October 2022
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Kia ora! Yes, you will have plenty of time to get back to Christchurch by 4.30pm, if you book either our 10.15 am or 12.45 pm cruise. All our cruises are 2-hours long, so if you choose our 12.45 cruise you would arrive back at Akaroa’s main wharf by 2.45 pm. I hope all this information helps.
Written 17 October 2022
Hello~We will be docking in Lyttleton (I looked and it wasn't listed as a tender port) on November 13, 2022. How do we get to your excursion? It sounds lovely and like a lot of fun and we would love to join you.
Thank you!
Written 28 June 2022
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hi Kathy, thank you for your question. At this stage there hasn’t been a bus service finalised to connect passengers from Lyttelton Port to Akaroa that we are aware of. If you would like to email us we can keep in contact as soon as we have any updates. Warm regards, Julia
Written 12 July 2022
Can you get trip on the day we arrive on 7th Feb on celebrity solstice.
Written 1 February 2020
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hi there,
As we take small groups of up to 35 passengers, we always recommend booking in advance, just so you don't miss out. You can book through our website or email us directly.
As Akaroa is a tender port I have added a little more information below.
Our location is very close to where you will arrive at the wharf on your tender. Once you disembark from the tender, walk to the very end of the wharf where you will see a small yellow/orange building to your left. The building has our Akaroa Dolphins signage on it. Here you will be able to pick up your boarding passes, and then boarding will be back on the wharf.
If you book our 10.15 am cruise, it is best to be on one of the first tenders to come ashore, just so you don't run late. Check-in is at 9.45 am.
I hope all this information helps.
Warm regards,
Julia
Written 2 February 2020
We plan to visit mid Dec, will we be able to watch whales?
Written 14 October 2018
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hi Eleen,
Thank you for your enquiry.
Unfortunately, the chances of seeing whale are slim, however, we have a 98% success rate in encountering Hector’s dolphins in their natural environment, all year round.
To find out more about our Akaroa Dolphins - Harbour Nature Cruises please visit our website.
I hope that helps.
Kind regards,
Julia
Written 14 October 2018
Hi, was the sea choppy? We are pretty proned to seasick but still keen to join in October!
Written 11 September 2018
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hello!
Our cruises are always dependent on the sea and weather conditions. Our staff constantly monitor the weather and respond professionally to any changes. Passenger comfort and safety is always our utmost priority, this may mean a tour is cancelled at any stage if we feel it necessary. If it is our decision to cancel a cruise, either a full refund or transfer to another cruise will be offered.
If you are susceptible to motion sickness, we suggest visiting the chemist and purchasing sea sick aid to take prior to your cruise. Once on board chat with our crew where the best place on the boat is to be, as certain spots do move less than others. We also have a few tricks up our sleeves to help with motion sickness – so don’t be shy to mention to our crew if you do feel a little under the weather.
Feel free to email us if you have any more questions.
I hope this helps.
Warm regards,
Julia
Written 11 September 2018
Hello! We are interested to take up the tour in start of Jul this year. Is the sea at the season calm or choppy as my husband would feel sea sick easily!
Written 20 March 2018
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hi Lyn,
Thank you for your message.
In our Winter months, we operate our 12.45pm cruise, weather and sea conditions dependent.
July is definitely a cooler month but we can still have some nice calm days.
If you would like more information please email us.
Kind regards,
Julia
Written 20 March 2018
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hello,
Thank you for your enquiry.
There are a few ways you can book directly with us, either by email, phone or website. Unfortunately I am unable to add our website or email address in this section. If you go to our profile up the top it will have links to these. Alternatively if you google 'Akaroa Dolphins' our website will come up with all our details.
Let me know if you need help with anything else.
Kind regards,
Julia
+64 (0) 3 304 7866 or 0800 99 01 02
Written 20 January 2017
arriving on CELEBRITY CRUISE SHIP. 1/24/2015 early AM. Do you pick-up at the dock ?
Written 12 August 2015
AkaroaDolphins
Akaroa, New Zealand
Hello!
Thank you for your inquiry.
Our office location is very close in relation to where you will come onto Akaroa wharf on your tender. Once you disembark from the tender, walk to the very end of the wharf where you will see a small yellow/orange building to your left (opposite a small park) - the walk will only take you a couple of minutes. The building has our Akaroa Dolphins signage on it. Here you will be able to pick up your boarding passes, and then boarding will be back on the wharf.
Our boat fills up quickly during the summer season so we do recommend booking ahead. You can book a space on our 2 hour harbour cruise directly via our website.
Kind regards,
Sonja Hepso
Akaroa Dolphins
Written 13 August 2015
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