We have a high success rate with dolphin sightings all year round, as we are in a hotspot for the Hector's dolphins. However, as the dolphins are wild we can never guarantee to see them. If your tour does not see a dolphin, you will be offered another trip free of charge. No refunds will be given in the event of not seeing dolphins.

*Dolphin Guarantee: If you don’t see any dolphins on your first cruise, you’ll receive a return cruise ticket, valid for 6 months, at no extra cost.

There is no rhyme or reason with the Hector's dolphins within Akaroa Harbour, it is best to pick the time that works for you. Hector’s dolphins are wild animals, so sightings can’t be guaranteed ~ but Akaroa Dolphins has one of the highest sighting rates in Akaroa Harbour thanks to our experienced crew and stable catamaran. 

No, for conservation reasons we do not swim with dolphins. Instead, we offer an exclusive and intimate 2-hour harbour cruise on our luxurious stable catamaran. Our tours focus on responsible, respectful viewing rather than intrusive interactions. For more information on why we do not swim with dolphins CLICK HERE

The dolphins are incredibly curious about our boats and enjoy coming over to investigate. As responsible boaters, we allow the dolphins to come to us, and don't impose on their space.

Please note, that we are holders of a New Zealand Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, meaning we are legally allowed to take guests on dolphin and seal viewing tours. We are also a SMART 'Sustainable Marine Mammal Actions in Recreation and Tourism' operator who has had extensive training in how to interact with marine mammals.

The Akaroa Dolphins wildlife and nature cruise lasts 2 hours, with check-in required 30 minutes before departure. This gives you plenty of time to explore Akaroa Harbour, watch for dolphins, spot seabirds, and learn about the region’s unique wildlife and history through our skipper’s live informative commentary.

In accordance with New Zealand Maritime law and due to the size of our vessel, wearing life jackets is not mandatory. However, if you'd like your little ones to wear one for peace of mind or in case of an emergency, we have plenty available on board. The crew is always ready to assist in putting them on.

Yes, Akaroa Dolphins offers cruises year-round (weather permitting) with seasonal schedules.

A complimentary beverage, including wine, beer, soft drink or orange juice, along with some home baking, is included in your fare. We also have further drinks on board for sale.

Please note, that guests are welcome to bring their own snacks on board, however, we ask you not to bring hot food e.g. fish and chips. Our home baking at this stage is not gluten-free.

Unfortunately, we don't have gluten-free options, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks on board. However, we don't recommend bringing hot food eg fish and chips.

If you are susceptible to motion sickness, we suggest visiting the chemist and purchasing seasick aid to take prior to your cruise. Once onboard chat with our crew about where the best place on the boat is to be, as certain spots do move less than others. We also have a few tricks up our sleeves to help with motion sickness ~ so don’t be shy to mention to our crew if you do feel a little under the weather.

Yes!

Please be aware that the bathroom on our catamaran is unfortunately not wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. It is located just inside the main cabin, but accessing this area requires navigating a small, raised door frame due to Maritime NZ safety requirements when building our catamaran.

We encourage guests to use the wheelchair-accessible bathroom facilities located just before the main wharf before boarding.

Our cruises are always dependent on the sea and weather conditions. Our staff constantly monitor the weather and respond professionally to any changes. Passenger comfort and safety are always our utmost priority, this may mean a tour is cancelled at any stage if we feel it necessary. If it is our decision to cancel a cruise, either a full refund or transfer to another cruise will be offered.

Please contact us by phone or email to inform our team of any disabilities, mobility, or medical conditions at the time of booking, including if someone is in a wheelchair, so we can ensure the best possible experience, considering sea conditions and optimal seating arrangements.

We happily cater to passengers with disabilities and welcome customers in wheelchairs with an able-bodied companion. As our vessel sits flush with the wharf when boarding, there are no steps that need to be negotiated. Please note though that due to the width of the gate on the vessels, it may mean that wheelchairs need to be lifted onto the boat. Due to this, wheelchair passengers may need to be briefly out of their wheelchairs – please don’t feel discouraged by this though as our crew are there to help, and once on board, there is room to move around in your wheelchair outside in the lower deck, here there are no steps to negotiate with.

Please note, the width of the gate on our 'Akaroa Dolphin' catamaran is 710 mm wide, and ‘Into the Blue’ is 560 mm.

We encourage guests to use the wheelchair-accessible bathroom facilities located at the Britomart Reserve before boarding. 

Disabled parking spaces are available around the wharf area and along Beach Road, however, please be aware spaces may be limited, especially at peak times. Additional parking is available at the Gaiety Hall, Rue Jolie, Akaroa, 7520, which offers free parking for up to 8 hours. Here is a link to the location. This location is a 3-minute walk from our ticketing office and a further 2-minute walk to the main wharf for boarding.

As much as we love dogs here at Akaroa Dolphins, we are unable to accommodate our guests' dogs on our cruises. The main reason is that our dolphin spotting dogs have a job to do and are easily distracted from doing this when other dogs are around.

Akaroa Dolphins is widely recognised as the best dolphin and wildlife cruises in Akaroa on review sites, offering award-winning tours, luxury vessels, and a high chance of spotting Hector’s dolphins ~ the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin. Our experienced friendly crew and eco-focused approach make the experience unique.

Please note, that we are based in Akaroa, not Lyttelton. Lyttelton port where most of the cruise ships now arrive since 2022 is a 90-minute drive from Akaroa.

Once you arrive in Akaroa harbour via a cruise ship you will then travel by a tender boat to the main Akaroa wharf, here you will arrive close to our location. Once you disembark your tender, walk to the very end of the wharf. Here you will see a small yellow/orange building to your left with our Akaroa Dolphins signage on it. This is where you pick up your boarding passes. Boarding will then take place on Drummonds Jetty.

If you book our 10.15 a.m. cruise, it is best to be on one of the first tenders to come ashore, just so you don't run late. Please watch this video. We depart directly in front of the blue buildings.

Full refunds will be given in the event of your cruise ship not making it into Akaroa Harbour due to unforeseen circumstances. Please contact us if this is the case.

Unfortunately, we do not allow the use of drones on our cruises, as a permit for use is required from the Department of Conservation. In addition, we have made this decision to prioritise the safety and enjoyment of other guests onboard.     

We are often asked what makes us unique. Below are key reasons why Akaroa Dolphins truly stands out:

• We supported and helped establish the Akaroa Marine Reserve, demonstrating our long-term commitment to local marine conservation.
• We operate the most stable, purpose-designed dolphin-watching boat in Akaroa, ensuring comfort and safety in all conditions.
• We focus on the little touches ~ thoughtful service, knowledgeable crew, and a premium experience from start to finish.
• Smaller group sizes for a more personal, relaxed, and intimate wildlife encounter.
• B Corp Certified, meeting the highest global standards for environmental and social responsibility.
• Locally owned and operated family business deeply connected to Akaroa’s heritage, community, and environment.
• #1 on TripAdvisor and other review sites, trusted and highly rated by thousands of travellers from around the world.

 To find out more about what sets us apart, CLICK HERE!

Absolutely! Your skipper delivers full, in-depth commentary that truly brings the harbour to life. Enjoy continuous, detailed narration covering everything from fascinating stories about local wildlife and the surrounding natural environment to rich, engaging insights into the harbour’s history and heritage. Every moment onboard is informative and immersive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, our knowledgeable crew ensures you leave with a thorough understanding and a deeper appreciation of the area.

Yes, as there can be a high demand for our tours, therefore, we advise you to book in advance. To make a booking click here.

We welcome passengers of all ages, from newborns to seniors, as our vessels are very stable, have secure railings, various indoor and outdoor areas to choose from, and space for pushchairs, etc. We have plenty of life jackets aboard, including those for infants and children, however, if you are travelling with young children, we do ask for their safety and that they are supervised at all times.

Please be on time. If you are late, you will not receive a refund or be able to join your harbour cruise. Like a plane, your cruise will leave as scheduled whether you are there or not. We expect you to arrive 30 minutes prior to the departure time to pick up your tickets, and boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure. If you are running late for reasons outside of your control, please make contact as soon as possible in order to find a solution.

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.

To cancel or change your booking please contact us by either calling +64 3 304 7866 or emailing us at cruise@akaroadolphins.co.nz

We reserve the right to cancel or change a tour or to replace any vessels at any time. Weather and sea conditions can change quickly and this may alter the status of your tour up to the time of departure. If your cruise is cancelled by Akaroa Dolphins, you will be entitled to a full refund or be able to hop on the next available cruise.

You can park for free (including campervans) at the Gaiety Hall, Rue Jolie, Akaroa, 7520, for up to 8 hours. It is a 3-minute walk from our ticketing office. Here is a link to GOOGLE MAPS.

Please allow plenty of time to find a car park in case the Gaiety Hall is full, and you need to find back street parking instead. 

In Akaroa, you don't need to pay for parking, but along the waterfront, there are time limits on parking. That's why we suggest finding a back street park.

Please note, that campervans are not allowed to park on the waterfront.

We suggest bringing along warm clothing, as even on summer days you just never know when there could be a cool sea breeze. We also recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen. Don’t worry if you get caught out though, we have lovely warm jackets and sunscreen on board for our passengers to use. Oh, and of course don’t forget your camera!

You can book directly through the Akaroa Dolphins Official Website, email, or at our Akaroa booking office. Booking online ensures the best availability and the most up-to-date schedule.