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Experience a dolphin cruise in Akaroa and encounter the Hector's dolphin, the world’s smallest and rarest.
Experience a dolphin cruise in Akaroa and encounter the Hector's dolphin, the world’s smallest and rarest.
Highlights
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery around Akaroa Harbour
- Watch dolphins, penguins, fur seals and birds in their natural habitat
- View the stunning volcanic formation of Cathedral Cove
- Relaxing cruise aboard our comfortable catamaran
Experience a dolphin cruise in Akaroa and encounter the world’s smallest and rarest marine dolphin – the endangered Hector’s dolphin. Cruise past Akaroa’s dramatic volcanic sea cliffs, fur seal colonies, and marine birdlife, all while gaining insight into the area’s rich natural and cultural history.
Black Cat Cruises are leaders in eco-tourism. During your cruise with us, you’ll discover the fascinating behaviors of Akaroa’s wildlife, learn about conservation efforts aimed at repopulating Hector’s dolphins, and explore how we can all contribute to their thriving future for generations to come.
Dolphins are sighted on 95% of our trips, if you do not see dolphins, we will give you a voucher to go again another day. Voted one of the top 101 things to do in New Zealand by local New Zealanders!
Authenticated Reviews
Real highlights, tips, and the helpful advice straight from Bookme customers who’ve actually done this experience, summarised with AI support
- emergencyMany customers praised the friendly and knowledgeable crew, highlighting their engaging commentary and exceptional service (45 people said this).
- emergencyThe opportunity to see Hector's dolphins and other wildlife like seals and penguins was frequently mentioned as a highlight of the cruise (38 people said this).
- emergencyThe scenic beauty of Akaroa Harbour and the overall experience were described as breathtaking and memorable (32 people said this).
- emergencyCustomers appreciated the comfortable boat and the availability of blankets for warmth during the cruise (15 people said this).
- emergencyMany reviewers noted that the cruise was well-organized and suitable for all ages, making it a great family activity (20 people said this).
- emergencyThe extra effort by the crew to retrieve lost items and accommodate guests was frequently highlighted as a testament to their excellent service (10 people said this).
- star_shineBring a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife.
Consider taking motion sickness medication if you're prone to seasickness.
Showing all 1336 authenticated Bookme reviews
mannay2 from New Zealand wrote on 21 January 2026
Amazing experience
We thoroughly enjoyed this close encounter with hector dolphins and our skipper’s knowledgeable commentary accompanied by his great sense of humor. Thank you!
dragon1969 from New Zealand wrote on 10 January 2026
A must do ❤️
Awesome experience. Captain of the boat was knowledgeable in the area and the wild life. He also was funny when giving the safety briefing but got the message across. He did he utmost to find dolphins for us even though the winds picked up and things got rough in the Harbour. In the end heading back with 10 minutes to go we did spot 2 dolphins 🐬 👏 👌. Staff on board were great as well. Recommended to anyone spending time in Akaroa.
emilyt10 from New Zealand wrote on 07 January 2026
Amazing
My husband and I and our 2 daughters went on the cruise. We all loved it, we seen dolphins, seals and even a penguin. The staff are very friendly. We will definitely do the cruise again. We would recommend everyone to do the cruise.
Gillian from New Zealand wrote on 03 January 2026
Enjoyable harbour cruise
This is the 3rd time I have done the nature harbour cruise and I loved it. It’s such an enjoyable experience and well worth the cost.
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Hufsa Junaid from New Zealand wrote on 21 January 2026
Awesome trip
Excellent service- the staff went above and beyond to make our experience memorable.