Akaroa – Harbour Nature Cruise LT01CS

The cruise is around an extinct volcanic crater and you will experience majestic scenery and stunning wildlife. Your Akaroa Nature Cruise is packed with many highlights including sightings of the rare NZ native dolphin – Hector’s Dolphin, as well as penguins and other sea birds. In addition you will see giant volcanic sea cliffs and learn about Akaroa’s fascinating past. The cruises depart everyday at 11.00 am or 1.30 pm from the wharf adjacent to where your cruise ship tender will berth and depart from.

The cruise duration is 2 hours

Your modern catamaran, the 60 foot /20 metre Black Cat , is perfect for viewing the natural wonders of Akaroa Harbour.  There’s lots of room on the two decks for unimpeded viewing and plenty of covered seating for shade and shelter. Inside there’s a bar and toilets. Relax, stretch out and discover the harbour each cruise is fully narrated by your skipper who has extensive knowledge of the nature, wildlife and history of the harbour.

You will catch glimpses of the White Flippered Blue Penguin, the smallest penguin in the world. There are many different bird species in the harbour, including five different cormorant (shag) species and the endangered yellow-eyed penguin. You’ll also see New Zealand Fur Seals sunning themselves on the rocks near Seal Bay.

On each two-hour cruise we will endeavour to show you wildlife plus the many sea caves and volcanic cliffs of Akaroa Harbour. As Akaroa was a live volcano millions of years ago, there are many spectacular ancient lava flows to be seen. One cliff has a sheer 500-foot face and a fascinating history, while Nikau Palm Gully is the southernmost limit for tropical palm trees. There is also the incredible Scenery Nook, an amazing pink, purple and red volcanic amphitheater that will take your breath away.