Harbour, Albatross and Wildlife Cruise on Otago Harbour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join our group tour of Otago Harbour on our latest vessel, "Adagio" Fast, safe, and comfortable, you will see more of our beautiful harbor with its extensive history and abundant wildlife.
Your skipper and guide will give you a commentary along the way, pointing out places of interest and facts about the wildlife you will encounter.
The main attraction, of course, is the albatross colony at Taiaroa Head at the entrance to the harbor. Watch 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.
Available options
Depart from Back Beach,Port C
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: This tour is 1.5 hours long<br/>Depart/return from Back Beach
Depart from Steamer Basin 1
Duration: 2 hours: An extra 30 minute tour of the upper Harbour is included with this option<br/>Depart from Steamer Basin, Dun
What's included
Group tour with a maximum of 18 passengers
Toilets available at departure/drop off points
Restroom on board
Detailed itinerary
1
The jump on point for our Harbour cruise if leaving from Dunedin
2
Stop 2
The start point for our Harbour, Albatross and Wildlife cruise. A popular spot for locals to launch their trailer boats.
Tour boats leave from here for tours around the harbour
3
Travel along the harbour with views of the Otago Peninsula
4
You will see the Otago Peninsula from the unique perspective of being on a boat in the harbour.
5
You will hear of the interesting history of the island, with shipwrecks and wildlife.
6
View this picturesque harbour-side village from the water
7
Stop and see the fishing boats and visiting wildlife in Careys Bay
8
The site of the only mainland breeding colony of the Northern Royal Albatross. See these magnificent birds in full flight, gliding around the cliffs and swooping down over the waves.
9
View the Albatross centre and Albatross colony from the water below the cliffs
10
Option to finish your tour with a drink or a bite to eat at the historic Careys Bay Hotel, one of the oldest in the country.
Fantastic fresh seafood selection along with a great range of local beer and wine and good coffee.
What's not included
Please bring your own drink bottle
Please bring a warm jacket
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
9 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
11 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guests need to step down into the boat-approximately 20cm
Meeting point
We depart from the Wellers Rock Jetty just past Wellers Rock.
Please note this is a 40 minute drive from Dunedin City. Please wait until directed by our crew before venturing onto the jetty.
Please note-The office at the jetty is not associated with our business.
Important notes
We will be in touch to confirm your trip time 4 days before your trip
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
