From Christchurch - Akaroa Day Trip with Hector's Dolphins

Highlights

• Expert dolphin-spotting dogs on board: a unique feature on no other Akaroa tour
• Hector's dolphins on the 2-hour Nature Cruise, included in the tour price
• Carbon-neutral small group tour, maximum 15 people. Not a coach, not a crowd
• Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks included. All-inclusive price
• Hilltop Lookout: panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and Banks Peninsula

Description

Most Akaroa day tours take you to the village. This one takes you into the harbour, with expert dolphin-spotting dogs on board to help find them. The 2-hour Akaroa Nature Cruise is included in your tour price. You cruise the deep waters of Akaroa Harbour and along the dramatic coastline of Te Pataka o Rakaihautū, Banks Peninsula, which was formed by two now-extinct volcanoes. The dolphin-spotting dogs on board are trained to help the crew locate wildlife. You are looking for Hector's dolphins, one of the world's smallest dolphin species and found only in New Zealand's coastal waters. Also on the cruise: fur seals, white-flippered penguins, sea birds, sea caves, and coastal rock formations. The group is capped at 15 people. Your guide travels with you throughout the day in a modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle. The commentary covers the history and geology of Banks Peninsula, the French colonial heritage of Akaroa, and the natural features of the route. The drive from Christchurch follows the Banks Peninsula Road through open farmland and rolling hills. The first stop is Little River, a small township at the edge of the peninsula, where you have time to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and browse the local store and gallery. From Little River, the road climbs to the Hilltop Lookout, where you stop for panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding bays. The volcanic crater that formed the harbour is visible from here. Banks Peninsula in te reo Māori is Te Pataka o Rakaihautū. The next stop is Barry's Bay Traditional Cheese, producing artisan cheese since 1895. Cheese sampling is included. The drive then continues through Barry's Bay, Duvauchelles, Robinson's Bay and Takamatua on the approach to Akaroa. In Akaroa, you have approximately four hours. Lunch is provided. The afternoon includes the 2-hour Nature Cruise. Lunch, bottled water and Kiwi snacks are included. WiFi and USB charging on board. Maximum 15 people. Carbon neutral tour. This tour is built around the Nature Cruise. There will not be time for additional walking tracks or extended shopping in Akaroa.

Includes

2-hour Akaroa Nature Cruise (included in tour price) Lunch Bottled water Kiwi snacks WiFi on board USB charging on board Live guide commentary throughout Small-group experience, maximum 15 people Transport in a modern Mercedes Sprinter or similar vehicle Carbon neutral tour Hotel pickup from 16 Christchurch locations

Excludes

Gratuities Additional activities and personal purchases in Akaroa, Little River and Barry's Bay Individual cheese purchases at Barry's Bay (cheese sampling is included)

Important Information

• This tour is built around the Nature Cruise. There will not be time for additional walking tracks or extended shopping in Akaroa
• The Nature Cruise is included in your tour price. No separate booking is required
• Hector's dolphin sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed
• Guests prone to sea sickness should take precautions before boarding the cruise
• Bring a waterproof jacket. Weather on Banks Peninsula can change through the day
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended
• Pickup begins at 8:30 am. Please be ready and waiting outside at least 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time
• Child pricing applies for ages 4 to 14 years. Children under 4 are not able to participate
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travellers with serious back conditions, heart conditions, or who are pregnant

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund