Departure times
12.45 pm - Year round
10.15 am & 3.15 pm - Check availability in the booking calendar
Additional departures can be arranged for groups of 10 or more. Please email us to inquire.
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.
Check-in information
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 at 65 Beach Road, Akaroa, 7520 no later than 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure from the main Akaroa wharf.
What to bring
New Zealand’s weather can change in an instant. 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.
Safety on board
In line with New Zealand’s safety 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.
The long-term well-being of our native wildlife is incredibly important. For that reason, we do not allow guests to swim with the dolphins.
Here in Akaroa Harbour we are in a prime location for the Hector's dolphins, White-flippered penguins, and New Zealand fur seals. As the animals are wild we can never guarantee to see them, but have a high success rate with sightings.
Yes, we run our cruises every day of the year, weather permitting.
As a holder of a New Zealand Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, we are one of only two year-round operators legally authorised to take guests to see the dolphins in Akaroa Harbour.
New Zealand’s weather can change in an instant. 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 visiting the pharmacy for Sea-Legs to manage nausea.
Cancellations by the guest must be made no later than 24 hours prior to departure. Any cancellations after this time will incur the full cost of the cruise. No charge applies to any booking changes made up to 24 hours before departure.
For groups over 6 and Private Charters please note, cancellations must be made no later than 7 days prior to departure in order to receive your deposit refund. Cancellations made within 7 days prior to your booking will incur the full cost of the cruise.