Discover playful, rare New Zealand Hector's dolphins, fur seals, penguins and many other kinds of sea birds, on Akaroa Harbour.
Discover the natural beauty and fascinating wildlife on Akaroa Harbour with an amazing 2-hour cruise aboard the Black Cat, a spacious, modern catamaran specifically built for sight-seeing.
Departing from Akaroa, you'll soak up sweeping scenic views over the Harbour from the purpose-built viewing decks while enjoying enthralling commentary from the skipper on-board.
While cruising, you'll discover and get up close to playful New Zealand Hector's dolphins, fur seals, penguins and a wide range of sea birds! Not only that, but we'll cruise past a host of local landmarks and points of interest including the stunning volcanic formation of Cathedral Cave, plus you'll see relics of Maori and colonial history, and see a modern working salmon farm.
Dolphins are sighted on 95% of our trips, if you do not see dolphins we will give you a voucher to go again another day. Voted one of the top 101 things to do in New Zealand by local New Zealanders!
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
A great day out with friendly and knowledgeable people, I would recommend to anyone.
Trip canceled due to bad weather. We appreciated the prompt communication (day before). Just awaiting a refund.
Hi Peta, Thank you for your message and please know I expect Bookme to have your refund finalised today. We have notified them that your tour was cancelled due to weather. Sorry we have been so badly impacted and hope you can join us another time. Keep warm!
So spoilt in our own backyard! Had the most incredible few hours in one of the most beautiful locations in NZ. Our skipper was so knowledgeable with the friendliest personality. He kept us well informed throughout the cruise without encroaching on the serene nature of the journey. Don’t take long to spot the infamous Hectors dolphins who played around the boat for much longer than anticipated. Then off to see some seals & little blue penguins on our way back. Felt so lucky to have experienced the ‘small 3’! Highly recommend this cruise
Each time I've been to NZ, I've taken this tour with whatever guests I have with me and it never disappoints. We saw multiple pods of Hector's dolphins, fur seals and albatross. The crew were polite and informative. Experience was great!
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Maria Abinion from New Zealand wrote on 29 July 2025
Harbor Nature Cruise
To the Harbour Nature Cruise Team, I just wanted to say a big thank you to all the amazing staff for looking after us so well during our recent cruise. From the moment we stepped aboard, we were welcomed with warm smiles and exceptional service that truly made the experience memorable. A special thanks as well for going above and beyond by helping us film our TikTok videos — especially holding the camera for us! It may seem like a small gesture, but it really meant a lot and made the trip even more fun and enjoyable. We had such a great time taking in the views, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and feeling completely relaxed knowing we were in such good hands. Thank you for your hospitality, kindness, and helpfulness — we’ll definitely be recommending Harbour Nature Cruise to our friends and family. Looking forward to sailing with you again soon! Warm regards, Maria Abinion