Port Chalmers , New Zealand

Cruise Dunedin City and Castle Tour

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(134 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A tour that "cruise" the city of Dunedin and Larnach Castle.

Sit back and relax and let Horizon Tours introduce you to Dunedin and its iconic buildings and landmarks.

Pick up is from Port Chalmers and en-route to Dunedin City we'll see the world's steepest street, Baldwin Street, our covered Sports Stadium and the University campus.

After stretching our legs at Baldwin Street we make our way towards the city centre to learn more about the city's history and view some of Dunedin's iconic landmarks including the Railway Station, Law Court House, First Church of Otago and other historic buildings in the city centre.

We next drive along the picturesque Otago Peninsula en-route to Larnach Castle where guests will have up to 90 mins of free time exploring the castle and gardens, maybe grab a cup of tea from the castle cafe.

After Larnach Castle we may have some free time to see more of the city centre before making our way back to the cruise ship.

Available options

Cruise Dunedin City and Castle Tour

Pickup included

What's included

A small number of snacks are carried in the vehicle and can be requested.

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Pick up/drop off at Port Chalmers (Cruise Ship Terminal)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After greetings and picked up at Port Chalmers terminals, we travel the 16kms / 10 miles towards Dunedin City along a lovely harbour side drive and slowly get a feel of the Edinburgh of the south.

Stop 2

See, walk, run or just stand on the world's steepest residential street.

Stop 3

The Heart of Dunedin City, filled with shops, cafes and some of New Zealand's Historic buildings.

This is a short stop to get a feel for the city and pick up customers from this location and to

No trip to Dunedin is complete without a look at this historical beauty

Drive out over the high road of the Otago Peninsula enroute to Larnach Castle. If the opportunity allows, we will stop for expansive views overlooking some amazing views.

Stop 6

A self-guided tour of Larnach Castle and Gardens.

This is our premiere location of this tour and our 90 mins timeslot is the average time spent here. There could be a possibility of extending the time here if time does not affect our re-boarding time.

Stop 7

Our return leg from Larnach Castle back to Port Chalmers and the cruise ship. The estimate drive time is 45 mins.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

102 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

32 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please wear closed-toed footwear and comfortable clothing Dunedin is often windy and sometimes a wet city.

Medium level of fitness required, 20-30 minute walk included.

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time.

There is no lift or elevator inside Larnach Castle (that has multiple flights of stairs).

Important notes

We can be contacted at bookings@horizontours.co.nz or on WhatsApp on +64 21 467-496.

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