Choosing a dolphin cruise in Akaroa can feel confusing ~ especially when several operators run in the same harbour. While we all share a love for this special place, there are important differences that can shape your experience. Here’s how we compare, and why many guests choose to cruise with us.

 
• We supported and helped establish the Akaroa Marine Reserve

Our team was closely involved in the creation of the reserve, and to this day, we remain active members of the Akaroa Harbour Marine Protection Society.
 
• The most stable, purpose-designed dolphin-watching boat in Akaroa

In 2019, our New Zealand-made catamaran, "Akaroa Dolphin II", was custom-built specifically with our guests in mind ~ designed for dolphin watching and the unique conditions of Akaroa Harbour. Its purpose-built design offers exceptional comfort and stability, with less rolling and a smoother, more relaxed experience than larger, less specialised vessels.

• We do not swim with dolphins ~ for conservation reasons

We prioritise the well-being of the endangered Hector’s dolphin. Our tours focus on responsible, respectful viewing rather than intrusive interactions. While some operators offer swimming, we’ve chosen a different path ~ one that puts the long-term protection of Hector’s dolphins first. Our guests consistently tell us that observing dolphins behaving naturally, without disturbance, is just as magical ~ and often more meaningful.
 
• A focus on the little touches

At Akaroa Dolphins, we believe it’s the little touches that make an experience truly memorable ~ from our warm welcome, home baking and complimentary drinks to cosy jackets and our famous dolphin-spotting dogs. Combined with small groups and genuinely personal service, we make sure every guest feels looked after from the moment they step aboard.

We aim to make our guests feel truly cared for by offering:

• Thoughtful, friendly hosting
• Warm jackets
• Filtered water
• Complimentary drinks
• Homemade baking
• Sunscreen
• Dolphin dogs
• Able to sit in the flybridge with the skipper

 
• Smaller groups for a more personal experience on a 50ft /15-metres Catamaran

Our tours feel more like visiting someone’s home than riding on a bus. We cap our tours at 35 ~ 45 guests, avoiding the crowdedness of operators that take up to 100 people. Our boat has 67 seats, ensuring there is always ample space to sit, move, and comfortably enjoy the views. 
 
• B Corp Certified

Not only are we Gold Qualmark, Department of Conservation Approved, MOSS Approved for Marine Safety and a SMART Operator ~ which is common practice within the New Zealand tourism and maritime industry ~ we are also proud to be B Corp Certified, reflecting our commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and strong community values internationally.

• A Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

Akaroa Dolphins has been operating for decades, proudly serving visitors to Akaroa Harbour. Our family’s connection to the harbour runs deep: we were involved in the first-ever Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise in the 1970s ~ 1980s aboard Miss Akaroa, and our family were among the first European settlers in Akaroa in 1838.

Today, we continue this legacy now across 8 generations, sharing our knowledge, passion, and love for the harbour with every visitor.

 
• #1 on TripAdvisor

We are ranked #1 on TripAdvisor for boat tours in both New Zealand and Akaroa, thanks to thousands of happy guests. We are also ranked the #1 company in Akaroa on Get Your Guide, Klook and Google.

If you’re looking for a dolphin experience that is personal, ethical, comfortable, and deeply connected to Akaroa Harbour, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Tours often sell out, especially in peak season ~ we recommend booking ahead to secure your spot. To book, please CLICK HERE!

Important clarification: Akaroa Dolphins is an independently owned and operated cruise company and is entirely separate from Black Cat Cruises. Any incidents, vessels or operations associated with Black Cat Cruises are not connected to Akaroa Dolphins.

Our name, Akaroa Dolphins, refers to our company. The dolphins found in Akaroa Harbour are Hector’s dolphins (Cephalorhynchus hectori), one of the world’s rarest and smallest marine dolphins. Join Akaroa Dolphins for a harbour nature cruise and the opportunity to encounter these incredible Hector’s dolphins in their natural environment.