Larnach Castle & Otago Wildlife Cruise from Dunedin
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the stunning Larnach Castle. Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula and enjoy a special Monarch Wildlife Cruise.
Your guide will take you on a one-hour tour of Larnach Castle. Hear the scandalous story of early settler William Larnach and his family. Explore the beautifully restored castle, with it's original antique furniture and impressive craftsmanship throughout. 30-minutes is allowed to briefly explore the gardens or take tea in the ballroom cafe.
The bus tour will then take you further along the Otago Peninsula.
You'll next board a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, travelling past volcanic cliffs and a historic lighthouse. Enjoy close viewing of fur seals, royal albatross and seabirds. We sometimes spot sea lions, blue penguins & dusky or hectors dolphins.
A 90-minute visit to The OPERA can also be added on as an extra. See conservation in action and possibly see the worlds rarest penguin (yellow-eyed) as you walk through a private eco-reserve and wildlife rehab facility.
Available options
Cruise Ship Terminal pick up
Cruise Ship Terminal pick up: Castle to Cruise Tour with pickup and dropoff from the Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Terminal. <br/>Pickup included
Castle to Cruise Tour
Pickup included
Castle to Cruise + Penguins
Wildlife + Penguin Tour: Guided walk through an eco-reserve helping save the endangered Yellow-eyed Penguin. Not suitable for cruise ship schedules.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Restrooms at Larnach Castle and on the Wildlife Cruise
Interactive commentary from a local guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Complimentary wifi, jackets and binoculars on the Wildlife Cruise
One-hour Monarch Wildlife Cruise
Entry fee and one-hour Larnach Castle Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Tour along the beautiful roads of the Otago Peninsula in our comfortable minivan. Enjoy stunning views of harbour and coast as you go.
2
Stop 2
Small group guided tour through 'NZ's Castle'. Discover the scandalous story of the Larnach family and explore the painstakingly restored building and it's beautiful grounds.
3
Bus tour along the scenic roads of the Otago Peninsula.
4
An invigorating wildlife cruise featuring volcanic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, royal albatross, fur seals and other Southern Ocean animals.
What's not included
We don't provide food or drinks. You can bring it with you or snacks can be purchased at the castle
We don't pickup from Port Chalmers cruise terminal pickup, unless you've booked the correct option.
Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed, but we'll always show you as much as possible.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
21 reviews
5★
18
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
37 reviews
5★
34
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula
Dunedin and The Otago Peninsula offer a unique blend of Scottish heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and abundant wildlife. This region is known for its dramatic cliffs, wildlife encounters, and historic architecture, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Top Attractions
Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle is a historic castle and garden that offers a glimpse into Dunedin's past. The castle is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful gardens.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Moderate
Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre is the only mainland breeding colony of northern royal albatross in the world. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds up close.
Nature/Wildlife
1-2 hours
Moderate
Dunedin Botanic Gardens
Dunedin Botanic Gardens is one of the world's best botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants, a winter garden, and a Japanese garden.
Nature/Gardens
1-2 hours
Free
Dunedin Chinese Garden
The Dunedin Chinese Garden is a beautiful and serene garden that celebrates the city's Chinese heritage. It features traditional Chinese architecture, plants, and water features.
Cultural/Historical
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat and offal.
Whitebait Fritters
A New Zealand delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish mixed with egg and fried into a fritter.
Lunch
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Venison
New Zealand is famous for its game meats, and venison is a popular choice, often served with seasonal vegetables and sauces.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Wildlife tours
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Beachcombing
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
15-22°C
59-72°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: Generally safe
Dunedin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train
Dunedin Railway Station
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is affordable and convenient, with frequent departures and easy-to-use routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Octagon
St. Kilda
North East Valley
Day trips
Moeraki Boulders
100 km from Dunedin • Full day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders scattered along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. These unique geological formations are a must-see for nature lovers.
Catlins Coast
150 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Catlins Coast is a remote and rugged coastline known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife, including seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Central Otago Wine Region
200 km from Dunedin • Full day or overnight
The Central Otago Wine Region is known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic drives.
Festivals
Dunedin Arts Festival • May
Dunedin Fringe Festival • March
Dunedin Winter Arts Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Albatross Centre early in the morning for the best chance of seeing the albatross up close
- Book a guided tour of Larnach Castle to learn about its fascinating history and architecture
- Explore the Otago Peninsula by car or bike for a more immersive experience
- Visit the Dunedin Botanic Gardens in spring or summer for the best blooming flowers and scenic views
- Try local specialties like haggis, whitebait fritters, and venison for an authentic taste of Dunedin's cuisine
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
