Akaroa boat trips that feel like private tours... small numbers of guests sharing an adventure and friendly, conversational commentary with our family crew. Our vessel is comfortable, safe and fast, allowing us to get down
the harbour quickly to spend more time with the spectacular coastline and the wildlife of the marine reserve - and beyond when conditions allow. Encounter a unique range of native flora and fauna, from palm trees to penguins,
in their natural habitats.
What to expect
Where to meet
What to bring
Allowing connection with shuttle services for a day-trip from Christchurch. This cruise often sells out so booking in advance is recommended.
Discounted rate for private tours for small groups (1-6 pax) of family, friends or colleagues that would prefer a trip for themselves.
Enquire about our personalised adventures with flexible departure times and durations, for small groups (1-8) of family, friends or colleagues who would prefer a trip to themselves.
Book accommodation with us in the Akaroa Coastal Cottage (sleeps 6) or Studio (sleeps 2) and a boat trip on a scheduled cruise or a private charter - at discounted rates.
Making the most of photo opportunities with early-morning light, often in the calmest conditions of the day on an uncrowded harbour.
The best time for a wildlife adventure… with the rest of the day ahead for other activities or travelling.
What people say about us
Lucie Vallée
on Google (Mar 20)
We had a great time! There were only 3 of us on the boat and saw Hector dolphins, blue penguins, giant petrels and lots of other birds.
The crew is very pleasant and gives a lot of information.
Thank you very
much for this wonderful moment
Lucie and Michel
Lan Peterson
on Google (Feb 20)
We had an awesome cruise around Akaroa Harbour with Southern Wanderer. The small boat makes for a more intimate experience, with conversational commentary about the wildlife and history of the area. I really enjoyed their ethos of not chasing the wildlife, but allowing it to come to us. And with that, we saw plenty of hector dolphins, seals, Pohatu blue penguins, and a couple albatross. Ollie and John were great hosts. I highly recommend this cruise if you want a more natural, intimate tour of Akaroa Harbour.
Benedikt Berthold
on Google (Mar 20)
We had an amazing tour!
We were lucky having the boat to ourselves for two people. Saw dolphins, penguins, seals and cormorans.
It is a family owned business, pretty intimate with a boat for max 8 people. Made
a mistake booking for two Children but John mailed me even it was late in the evening, making me aware of it and offering a quick Change of conditions. All in all a great service.
Thank you so much!