Dunedin Harbour & Wildlife Tours

View Dunedin Royal Albatross, seals and penguins along the breathtaking Dunedin Harbour out to the Albatross Colony by boat.
  • Pick Up: Dunedin or Port Chalmers
  • Duration: Up to 2 hours
  • Tour Size: Max 18 People

Harbour and Wildlife Cruise on Dunedin's Otago Harbour

Join our group tour of Otago Harbour wildlife cruises aboard our vessel, "Adagio." Fast, safe, and comfortable, you will see more of our beautiful harbour, with its extensive history and abundant wildlife.

Your skipper and guide will provide informative commentary along the way, pointing out places of interest and facts about the wildlife you will encounter.

The main attraction is the Albatross colony at Taiaroa Head, at the entrance to the harbour. Watch from the water as these magnificent birds glide along the cliff faces and swoop down along the waves, sometimes beside the boat. An experience not to be missed.

Perfect for sightseers and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages, this tour offers a unique way to experience the diverse, abundant wildlife that Dunedin and Otago are famous for.

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Itinerary


Pick Up Points

Dunedin Steamer Basin

Your departure point if you are a cruise ship passenger returning from Dunedin city. Other pick-ups from Dunedin are by arrangement.

We depart from the floating jetty adjacent to the shiny 'Ray White' building at the southern end of the wharf.

Back Beach, Port Chalmers

This is your departure point if you're joining the tour or water taxi from Port Chalmers.

You will find us at back beach, a short 5 - 10 minute walk from Port Chalmers' main street and cruise terminal.

Quarantine Island

You can add Quarantine Island as your stop off from both Portobello and Port Chalmers.

There is a designated jetty which leads you up to the island for day trips or overnight stays.

Portobello

The Portobello Wharf is about a 5 minute walk from the Portobello township.

Lookout for the car park, Ferry Boatshed and floating pontoon.

what to bring

  • A personal drink bottle
  • Warm clothing to ensure comfort during the cruise
  • Your camera or smartphone to capture unforgettable memories.

Additional Information

  • Restroom facilities are available on board.
  • While infants are welcome, please note that they must sit on a guardians lap, and no infant seats are available.
  • The vessel is stroller accessible: however guests should be prepared to step down approximately 20 cm into the boat.
  • Unfortunately the tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for pets.

Cancellation Policy

We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred departure time. Our team will contact you four days prior to your scheduled trip to confirm details. In the event of a cancellation, please be aware that a 100% fee applies if the booking is cancelled one day or less before the event.

faqs

We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are a good idea, as temperatures can change on the water. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Flat, closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles are essential for safety. Additionally, bring a camera or smartphone to capture the incredible sights, and if you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking a preventative remedy before boarding.

Absolutely! Our boat tours are designed to be family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages. We offer a range of experiences suitable for kids and adults alike. Our knowledgeable guides provide engaging and educational commentary that can captivate young minds, and our boats are equipped with safety features to ensure a secure and comfortable journey for everyone. Whether you're a family of nature enthusiasts or just looking for a fun day out, we welcome families aboard with open arms.

We strive to make our boat tours as accessible as possible. Please let us know about any specific mobility requirements when booking, and we'll do our best to accommodate them. Our crew is trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges, however there is a 20cm drop down on to the boat which limits wheelchair accessibility.

Yes we have restroom facilities and some boarding and embarking locations have public toilets nearby.

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