Dunedin Shore Excursion - Sightseeing, Larnach Castle, Chinese Garden & Museum
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A unique opportunity to experience the very best Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula has to offer. This shore excursion combines sightseeing of Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula with a guided tour of the stunning Larnach Castle and its grounds. Also included is Dunedin’s Chinese Gardens: an authentic Chinese Garden crafted by a team of artisans and craftsman from Dunedin’s sister city of Shanghai. Adjacent to the gardens, explore the Otago Early Settlers Museum with emphasis on the early settlement of Otago.
Available options
Dunedin Shore Excursion - Sightseeing, Larnach Castle, Chinese Garden & Museum
What's included
Local guide
Driver/guide
Port pickup and drop-off
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
9.00am - Your tour will depart from Port Chalmers for a city sights tour of Dunedin, where you'll get to see Otago University, Botanical Gardens, Historic Buildings, 'World's Steepest Street', and more with plenty of photo opportunities. Please be ready by 8.45am for a 9.00am departure.
2
Stop 2
Arrive at Larnach Castle and journey back in time with a guided tour of New Zealand`s only castle built in 1871. Learn the scandalous, exciting and tragic history of the castle whilst enjoying the magnificent splendor of a bygone era. The tour also includes the castles gardens which are of international significance and provide breathtaking views from this commanding vantage point on the Otago Peninsula. There will also be time for lunch (at own expense)
3
Depart Larnach Castle and return to Dunedin where a visit of Dunedin’s Chinese Garden has been arranged. This is an authentic Chinese Garden created as a fitting, permanent recognition of the Chinese people who came to Otago during the 1880’s gold rush and stayed to establish some of the city’s businesses. The Chinese Garden was crafted by a team of Shanghai based artisans and craftsmen.
4
Stop 4
Following your exploration of the gardens there will also be time to explore the Otago Early Settlers Museum, the 100,000 plus items in the Museum’s collection highlight the character, culture, technology, art, fashion and transport of the Otago Province from before the time of European Settlement to the present. Finally return to your cruise ship before its departure from port.
What's not included
Food & Drinks
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
7 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
3.5
6 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum number of 10 Adults required for tour to operate
Meeting point
The tour will depart from the Visitors' Building on the ship's wharf at 9AM.
The Driver / Guide will meet you inside by the Private Tours area.
Look out for our sign "Welcome LEISURE TOURS"
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour departure
Important notes
Please give your ticket to the driver/operator before your tour embarks.
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
Instant confirmation
