Our Blog

Akaroa Dolphins were founded in 2004 by Hugh and Pip Waghorn. With daughter Julia and son George joining the family business in 2015. The team today consists of 12 dolphin and boating enthusiasts, as well as four dolphin-spotting dogs, who cannot wait to meet you and show you the beauty of Akaroa harbour!

Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery. Enjoy the fascinating history and amazing wildlife of Banks Peninsula aboard our stylish vessel.

An integral part of our team at Akaroa Dolphins is our expert dolphin spotting dogs. We have 4 dogs; Albie and Buster as our main dogs, Moana in training and Jet who is retired, but available if needed.The dogs have their very own roster, taking turns working, one at a time. They are on the boat equipped with dog life vests, ready to spot some dolphins. They each react in their own individual way, indicating that we are close to the Hector´s dolphins. Apart from this important task, their job is also to enjoy all the petting and hugs from the crew and passengers onboard.

To celebrate Mother's Day this year we are giving away a DOUBLE PASS. To enter, tag a deserving mother on our Facebook or Instagram Mother's Day post. Entries close Friday 8th May 2020. The winner will be announced Saturday the 9th of May 2020.

Last week we saw this inspiring colouring competition so we have decided to do something similar for our followers/fans. The rules are simple, get colouring, post a picture of your child's or your own finished piece on either your Instagram grid or Facebook wall with the hashtag #AkaroaDolphins and tag @AkaroaDolphins to be in to win a FAMILY PASS on our cruise.

The White-flippered penguin is one of the smallest and rarest penguins in the world. It is endemic to Canterbury, New Zealand and breeds only on the Banks Peninsula and Motunau Island, where there is roughly around 4000 pairs nesting.