Get ready for an epic adventure as you watch Hector’s dolphins gracefully dance through New Zealand’s coastal waters. Our knowledgeable, passionate crew will be your guides, sharing insights about the dolphins, our landscape and the history of the area.
Rated TripAdvisor's #1 dolphin tour in Akaroa
2 hours
exploring the Akaroa Harbour
Luxury catamaran
with all the comforts of home
High chance
of meeting Hector’s dolphins
2 hours
exploring the Akaroa Harbour
Luxury catamaran
with all the comforts of home
High chance
of meeting Hector’s dolphins
Meet Hector’s dolphins and native wildlife
Thanks to our great location in Akaroa Harbour, we are in a prime location for seeing Hector's dolphins, white-flippered penguins, and New Zealand fur seals. On rare occasions, we may even spot migrating orcas, humpback whales, or dusky and bottlenose dolphins.
As the animals are wild, we can never guarantee a sighting, but we have an incredibly high success rate with Hector’s dolphins, who are as curious about us as we are of them.
Akaroa Harbour's historical & cultural highlights
Soak up the scenery as we share tales about the history of the area and the people who called this land home. From dramatic cliff faces and panoramic vistas to local historical sites like Ōnuku, the Māori village where the Treaty of Waitangi (the founding document of New Zealand) was first signed by local chiefs.
The most luxurious boat in the harbour
There’s no “roughing it” on this dolphin cruise! Our aerodynamic catamaran glides smoothly through the sea, giving you a smooth, stable ride that reduces the risk of queasiness. We offer both indoor and outdoor seating and restrict our guest numbers to ensure you have plenty of room to make yourself at home.
Indulge all of your senses
Enjoy home baking and one complimentary drink from our well-stocked bar, full of award-winning local beverages. A cruise with Akaroa Dolphins is more than just a boat ride or sightseeing trip. For many of our guests, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so we make it extra special with little touches you won’t find anywhere else.
Our four-legged dolphin spotters
Dogs have an uncanny connection to dolphins, and on an Akaroa Dolphins cruise, you’ll get to witness it for yourself. Our dolphin-spotting dogs are experts at detecting dolphins in the area, often alerting us to their presence well before we spot them. Equipped with doggy life vests, these fluffy crew members are also partial to a pat.
Cruise Pricing
Book your cruiseOur boats run like clockwork
We run a tight ship, so please make sure you’re on time for your booked dolphin cruise. Please pick your tickets up from our shop no later than 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure from the main Akaroa wharf.
12.45 pm ~ Operates all year round.
10.15 am & 3.15 pm ~ Please check our booking calendar for availability or by prior arrangement for groups of 10+ people.
A little preparation goes a long way
New Zealand’s weather can change in an instant, with “four seasons in one day” being a regular occurrence. For your comfort, we recommend packing light but covering all eventualities. A warm jacket, sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses will ensure you’re ready for whatever the weather throws at you. We also keep spare jackets and sunscreen on board in case you forget. On days with sea swells, we recommend Sea-Legs to manage nausea.
We’re committed to your safety
In line with New Zealand’s laws, our staff are trained for emergencies, and our boat and onboard equipment are maintained and tested regularly.
Due to the size of our boat, you’re not required to wear a life vest, but should the need arise, we have more than enough for our passengers. If you’d feel more comfortable wearing one for the journey, just ask a member of our crew.
How it works
Choose a Sailing
Book your desired departure date and sailing time using our online system.
Collect your ticket
Collect your boarding pass from our office at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Cruise in style
Step aboard the Akaroa Dolphins boat 15 minutes before your departure time.
Hear from our
happy cruisers
Brilliant hosts, wildlife not disturbed, just observed. Loved the dog! Very special experience and a different view of Akaroa.
Such a pleasure & memorable trip. Definitely recommend it, surpassed our expectations. We saw Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, and albatross. P.S. The history of the area can be felt here. I shall take this wairua back to my whānau. Beautiful. Healing.
Unforgettable experience! The team is absolutely adorable, they're all making sure that you're happy and you're spending a great time ~ which we did.
One of the best dolphin watching experiences I've ever had! Very professional and accommodating. Saw some Hector's dolphins, penguins and fur seals. Thank you!
This was the best. Instantly saw dolphins, they swam with the boat, there were seals with their pups, and even a little penguin. The captain and guide who took care of us were super nice and fun ~ we loved it!
Family~run business. Heaps of enthusiasm. Saw Hector's dolphins, seals, penguins, and albatross. Good boat. Good commentary. Excellent hostess.
Private charters
Our private charters allow you to tailor a dolphin cruise to suit your party's needs. Embark on a personalised dolphin cruise that guarantees privacy, flexibility, and a truly extraordinary experience. Get in touch with us to plan an unforgettable voyage.