Otago Peninsula Scenery and Dunedin City Highlights Tour
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
Start at Port Chalmers and discover the beauty of Dunedin on a unique 5–6 hour tour combining rich heritage, spectacular scenery, and exclusive wildlife experiences. What makes this tour special is the chance to explore the stunning Otago Peninsula up close, with its rugged beaches, bays, and abundant wildlife, all guided by an expert who shares local insights and highlights the most breathtaking viewpoints.
Enjoy about an hour at the Royal Albatross Centre, home to the world’s only mainland colony of Royal Albatross. Here, you can relax with lunch at the café, explore the visitor centre, or step outside to see these magnificent seabirds in flight and observe nearby seals — a truly rare and memorable experience. Albatross guided tour not included with this!
The tour also features Dunedin’s city highlights and, being designed for small groups, provides flexibility, comfort, and personalised attention — making it an unforgettable way to experience both the city and the Otago Peninsula.
Available options
Including Albatross Tour
Includes 1 hour guided tour at Albatross centre to view the nesting area.
Including free time
Free time at the Royal Albatross centre where you can walk down to the beach to view seals that are there most of the time, observe albatrosses gliding in the wind if it is windy enough.
What's included
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Live commentary on board
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A short Stop
2
A photo stop
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Short stop
4
1 hour scenic drive via Highcliff with photo stops
5
Stop 5
Free time at Albatross centre, a guided tour of albatross colony is not included
6
1 hour scenic drive via Portobello Road
7
Stop 7
a photo stop
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
20 reviews
5★
15
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.7
12 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
If you are not traveling on a cruise ship, please meet the tour guide at the Octagon, outside Dunedin Visitor Centre at 9am
Important notes
Thank you for your booking.
FANTAIL TOURS guide will be picking you up at 9am, at Port Chalmers cruise terminal, private tour waiting area, door 2.
Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
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
