Albatross, seals, and sea birds-Wildlife Cruise
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Small group tours, by Otago Harbour's most experienced skipper/guide!
You wont find a wildlife guide with more experience on Otago harbour then owner/operator Rachel McGregor. She has had 20 +years experience skippering/guiding/operating commercial vessels on Otago Harbour, including dredger, coastguard, harbourmaster and more.
Modern, comfortable, safe, fast and custom built boat.
Approx 1.5 hours -2 hours in duration.
-Fully commentated.
-Quality binoculars provided.
-We pass by the historic Quarantine Stations and old shipwrecks.
-See and learn about the fishing boats, workboats, dredges and ships as we pass Port Chalmers and Careys Bay.
-Look for albatross, penguins, seals, sea lions, sea birds, marine mammals and more as we cruise past roosting, breeding and feeding areas.
-See/learn about the historic pilots houses, search light and gun emplacements and the old whaling stations.
-Cruise around Taiaroa Head, Nature reserve.
Available options
Port Chalmers Departure
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: Albatross Wildlife and Harbour cruise, starts and finishes at Port Chalmers. 5 minutes walk from cruise terminal building.<br/>Starting point:<br/>39 Peninsula Beach Road, Port Chalmers, Dunedin 9023, New Zealand<br/>Pickup included
Portobello Departure
Duration: 2 hours: Albatross Wildlife and Harbour Cruise, departing from Portobello. 837 Portobello Road, Otago Peninsula.<br/>Starting point:<br/>837 Portobello Road, Portobello, Dunedin 9014, New Zealand<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Experienced guides
Use of high quality binoculars for adults.
Small-group tours
Live commentary on board
Wildlife Identification sheet provided
Detailed itinerary
1
Small group tours, fast custom built vessel. Comfortable, warm, enclosed cabin, or open outer deck.
On our tour.....
-Approx. 2 hours duration, if joining from Portobello. Or 1.5 hours if joining from Port Chalmers by default, unless specified.
-Fully commentated.
-Travel from the most scenic part of the harbor, pass by the historic Quarantine Stations and old shipwrecks.
-See and learn about the fishing boats, workboats, dredges and ships as we pass Port Chalmers and Careys Bay.
-View wading birds and look for penguins sea lions and shags as we cruise past roosting and feeding areas.
-See/learn about the historic pilots houses, search light and gun emplacements and the old whaling stations.
-Take the time to cruise around Taiaroa Head, exploring the shallow bays to view fur seals and nesting colonies of shags, albatross, sea birds, marine mammals such as dolphins and more.
Usual departure times are 10am, 1:15pm, 4:00pm.
Please advise which times you'd prefer.
Available languages
Written guide
DE
JA
FR
MNP
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
65 reviews
5★
55
4★
3
3★
3
2★
1
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.9
119 reviews
5★
113
4★
5
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be aware there could be sea spray at times, please dress warmly, just incase.
Please wear a facemask if you have been recently unwell.
Meeting point
400 metres before the Portobello township if coming from Dunedin. Look for the small brown boatshed with a signage reading 'Wildlife and Ferry'. Please use Google Maps for accurate address position, not Apple Maps.
Important notes
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
About Port Chalmers
Port Chalmers is a historic port town on the Otago Peninsula in New Zealand's South Island. Known for its charming Victorian architecture, rich maritime history, and stunning coastal scenery, it offers a peaceful yet culturally vibrant experience just a short drive from Dunedin.
Top Attractions
Port Chalmers Historic Walk
This self-guided walk takes you through the town's historic sites, including Victorian architecture, maritime history, and significant landmarks.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities. It's home to the world's only mainland royal albatross colony.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Port Chalmers Maritime Museum
This small museum showcases the town's rich maritime history, with exhibits on shipping, whaling, and local heritage.
Museum
30-60 minutes
Free or donation-based
Must-Try Local Dishes
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand dish made with whitebait, a small type of fish, mixed with egg and cooked in a fritter.
Appetizer
Contains fish and eggs
Seafood Chowder
A hearty soup made with a variety of local seafood, such as fish, mussels, and crab, in a creamy broth.
Soup
Contains seafood and dairy
Lamb Rack
A tender rack of lamb, often served with a mint sauce or red wine reduction, a classic New Zealand dish.
Main Course
Contains lamb
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Wildlife Viewing
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Waterfront Dining
Exploring Historic Sites
Visiting Museums
Best Time to Visit
Summer (December to February)
Summer is the best time to visit Port Chalmers, offering warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the coastal areas.
15-20°C
59-68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Port Chalmers is a very safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Stay informed about weather conditions
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from Port Chalmers
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available for travel between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, but within the town, walking is the best option.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be booked by phone
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Waterfront
Day trips
Dunedin
20 km from Port Chalmers • Half day to full day
Dunedin is a vibrant university city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of cultural attractions.
Moeraki Boulders
50 km from Port Chalmers • Half day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders found on a stretch of Koekohe Beach. They are a unique geological feature and a popular tourist attraction.
Festivals
Port Chalmers Music Festival • Annual, typically held in February
Otago Peninsula Festival of the Arts • Annual, typically held in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Port Chalmers Maritime Museum for a deeper understanding of the town's history
- Explore the Otago Peninsula for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing
- Enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant for beautiful views and fresh seafood
- Pick up a map of the historic walk from the local information center
- Check the opening hours of attractions and museums before visiting
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
