Wildlife Cruises in Dunedin with Monarch Wildlife Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with some boat stability considerations.
Overview
Spend 2.5 hours cruising Otago Harbour with Monarch Wildlife Cruises, encountering royal albatross, fur seals, dolphins, and blue penguins. Discover why Dunedin is New Zealand’s wildlife capital.
Cruise to Sea Wildlife
For all ages • Designed to suit cruise ship schedules • Pickups included!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour wildlife cruise around Dunedin's stunning Otago Harbour. Experience breathtaking views of volcanic cliffs, the unique royal albatross colony, and playful fur seals. Enjoy morning tea while spotting dolphins and blue penguins. This intimate adventure promises unforgettable moments in New Zealand's wildlife capital.
Explore the Otago Harbour and beyond...
By the time you return to your ship you’ll understand why Dunedin is the Wildlife Capital of NZ!
Duration:
2.5 Hours
About:
We’ll pick you up from the Port Chalmers Cruise Terminal and shuttle you 5-minutes to our boat, the Vivienne J. Once aboard the boat your expert crew will take you on a Wildlife Cruise around the Otago Harbour and beyond.
The small-group cruise will travel around beautiful wharves and boatsheds, then through the historic Quarantine Islands. You’ll see the Careys Bay fishing village and its motley collection of boats before continuing along the harbour. Enjoy a nice hot drink and biscuit for morning tea.
As you arrive at the entrance to the Otago Harbour you’ll see the tidal Aramoana sandflats and the spectacular volcanic cliffs of Taiaroa Head. You’ll see the royal albatross breeding colony, the only mainland colony in the world. Beneath a picturesque lighthouse you’ll find a large population of fur seals, watch as they swim, play and sleep on rocky platforms close to the boat. A short way out to sea we often spot other species of albatross and seabirds. We sometimes see dolphins, sea lions and blue penguins. Don’t forget your camera!
More info:
This tour’s pickup time is generally 10:00am. It will be confirmed via email from our staff once you’ve completed your booking.
You will be collected by one of our staff holding a Monarch Wildlife Cruises sign. You’ll find them in the ‘Private Tours Area’ within the Port Chalmers Cruise Terminal. It is located approximately 100-metres from where you disembark your ship.
You will be dropped off at the same location at the end of the tour.
What to bring:
Dress warm for the days forecast and bring a waterproof layer. The weather can be unpredictable at times and we highly recommend being ready for all conditions. Extra jackets are available if needed. We suggest wearing sturdy and comfortable footwear. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink on the boat!
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Weather on Otago Harbour can change quickly; bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Wildlife sightings happen at a distance; a camera with zoom is ideal for capturing clear images of albatrosses, seals, and penguins.
Arrive Early for Pickup
The shuttle pickup occurs at Port Chalmers Cruise Terminal's Private Tours Area; plan to arrive early to avoid missing the group.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
The boat’s deck can be wet; sturdy, comfortable footwear with good grip is recommended for safety during the cruise.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Royal albatross—the only mainland breeding colony worldwide
- New Zealand fur seals relaxing on rocky outcrops
History
Taiaroa Head is home to the world’s only mainland royal albatross colony, established as a protected nesting site to conserve this endangered seabird.
Conservation
Monarch Wildlife Cruises emphasizes low-impact tours, promoting education and respect for local wildlife and habitats to ensure ongoing preservation of Otago Harbour.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dunedin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry during unpredictable weather on the harbour.
all specific
Binoculars
Enhances viewing of distant seabirds and marine mammals.
all specific
Warm Layers
Provides insulation against cool sea breezes.
fall|winter|spring specific
Camera with Zoom Lens
Allows capturing detailed wildlife photographs.
all specific