Akaroa Dolphins

Akaroa Dolphins Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruises Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery.
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Enjoy the fascinating history and amazing wildlife of Banks Peninsula aboard our luxurious vessel 'Akaroa Dolphin'. Highlights of our cruise include viewing the rare Hector's dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, penguins, seabirds, spectacular sea caves and volcanic formations. A complimentary drink, including local award-winning wine, beer, and juice is offered when you step onboard. Enjoy one of our

famous homemade cookies on your return to Akaroa's main wharf. A percentage of each passenger's fare goes towards the research and education of the Hector's dolphins. We are proud to be 100% locally owned and operated. Our friendly team will show you the Peninsula like only a local can. Experience why we’re winners of the Champion Canterbury Business Awards | Tourism Small Enterprise in 2015, Rankers winner of Dolphin Watching Experience in 2013, and ranked Number 1 on TripAdvisor for Boat Tours in New Zealand. Our track record for offering an unforgettable nature cruise experience speaks for itself. To learn more visit our website at www.akaroadolphins.co.nz

✨ As the Matariki constellation reappears in the winter sky, we pause to reflect, remember, and celebrate new beginnings...
19/06/2025

✨ As the Matariki constellation reappears in the winter sky, we pause to reflect, remember, and celebrate new beginnings.

Kia pai tō tātou Matariki ~ Happy Matariki (Māori New Year) from all of us here in beautiful Akaroa🌌🌿

Today, our beloved Skipper Stew sets sail into retirement. 💙🛥️After 15 incredible years as a cherished part of Akaroa Do...
09/06/2025

Today, our beloved Skipper Stew sets sail into retirement. 💙🛥️

After 15 incredible years as a cherished part of Akaroa Dolphins, your presence will be deeply missed. We’re so grateful for all the memories, laughs, and dedication you’ve shared with us.

Wishing you all the very best in your next adventure ~ and we feel lucky knowing you’ll still be nearby.

Enjoy your last day on the water 🐬🐶

21/05/2025

It was a whale day! 🐋

First humpback sighting of the 2025 season ~ heading north to warmer waters. Always magical to see these giants on the move! 💙

Video: Hannah Kiely

16/05/2025

A perfect 10 moment with just the right amount of show-off energy 🐬🚀

Disclaimer: Hector’s dolphins aren’t typically known for high-flying acrobatics ~ but this guy clearly missed the memo. Total star moment! ✨

Video: Hannah Kiely

Proof that good things come in small packages. 🐬✨ The Hector’s dolphin ~ tiny, rare, and full of life and wonder. At jus...
13/05/2025

Proof that good things come in small packages. 🐬✨ The Hector’s dolphin ~ tiny, rare, and full of life and wonder. At just 1.2 to 1.4 meters long, these ocean gems are among the smallest dolphins. Females are usually slightly larger than males! 💙 Photo: Hana Lebanko

Happy Mother’s Day from Akaroa! 🐬🌸 Hector’s dolphin calves stay with their mothers up to 2 years before becoming indepen...
10/05/2025

Happy Mother’s Day from Akaroa! 🐬🌸 Hector’s dolphin calves stay with their mothers up to 2 years before becoming independent. What a special bond! 💙

Happy Earth Day from our little piece of paradise 🌏 This stunning photo of Banks Peninsula was taken from space by Космо...
22/04/2025

Happy Earth Day from our little piece of paradise 🌏

This stunning photo of Banks Peninsula was taken from space by Космонавт Сергей Рязанский - Astronaut Sergey Ryazanskiy, capturing a truly breathtaking moment almost 8 years ago.

12/04/2025

The Perfect Trifecta! 🐬🐬🐬

Yesterday, we were treated to something truly special ~ three Hector’s dolphins leaping ✨

Disclaimer: They don’t do this every day, but they were clearly in a playful, social mood… and probably had full bellies, too! 😄

📸: Annika Vetter

Skipper Position Available ~ Join the Akaroa Dolphins Crew🐬🐶Our beloved long-time skipper is heading into a well-earned ...
11/04/2025

Skipper Position Available ~ Join the Akaroa Dolphins Crew🐬🐶

Our beloved long-time skipper is heading into a well-earned retirement, and we’re on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Skipper to join our team.

If you love working on the water, care about marine life, and want to be part of something special ~ we’d love to hear from you!

📩 Apply now at ~ https://shorturl.at/Idd4C or tag someone who’d be perfect for the role!

25/02/2025
Who's watching who? 🐬🐶 Here we have Albie, one of our dolphin dogs, admiring these majestic Hector's dolphins as they gl...
12/02/2025

Who's watching who? 🐬🐶 Here we have Albie, one of our dolphin dogs, admiring these majestic Hector's dolphins as they glide by! 💙

07/02/2025

Out of Office Orca 🐋

📍Ōnuku Marae, Akaroa Harbour

Address

65 Beach Road
Akaroa
7520

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday 8:30am - 5pm
Sunday 8:30am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+6433047866

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About Our Cruises

Step aboard our stylish vessel and experience the beautiful scenery and amazing wildlife of Banks Peninsula. Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery through the long history of Akaroa Harbour and its inhabitants. Our low-lying boats ensure you have a closer encounter with the rare Hector’s dolphins. We also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of our local New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Along the way you will get to see sea caves and other spectacular volcanic formations too. We offer a friendly and comfortable cruise that includes a complimentary beverage, including award-winning wine, beer, low & non-alcoholic options, as well as some delicious home baking. Experience first-hand why we’re winners of the Champion Canterbury Business Award for Tourism in 2015, Rankers winner of Dolphin Watching Experience in 2013, and ranked Number 1 on TripAdvisor for Boat Tours in New Zealand. Don’t just let our track record for offering unforgettable nature cruises speak for itself come and experience it for yourself!

Our 100% locally owned and operated business is committed to raising awareness and protecting the marine environment. That is why a portion of your fare goes towards protecting our beautiful harbour and its wildlife. To find out more about our conservation commitments visit our website www.akaroadolphins.co.nz