Get closer to unique Southern Ocean wildlife!

Join us for an invigorating ocean experience and see what can't be seen from land...

Duration:

1 hour

About:

Drive yourself out from the city, along the beautiful Otago Peninsula and join a Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock Wharf.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery as our sturdy boat explores the stunningly beautiful and rugged coastline near the entrance of the Otago Harbour. Our crew will give you a full commentary during your cruise about our local wildlife, history and geology.

The trip will travel past the beautiful Aramoana Beach and it’s tidal sandflats. We often spot sea lions here, sprawled out, basking in the sun. These impressive animals can weigh almost half a tonne. After nearly being wiped out by early settlers they have recently started returning to the sandy beaches around the southern coastline of New Zealand. The sealion population is now growing steadily.

Across the other side of the harbour channel you’ll see remnants of the areas military history. Several lookout posts and gun emplacements were built in to the rocky hill, connected by tunnels. They are now a popular spot for local fisherman.

You’ll see uninterrupted views of the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. We want to get you close to the albatrosses as they soar and glide on their huge three metre wingspans. Watch as they fly in low from the ocean, then use updrafts from the hillside to get up high and land at their nest.

Enjoy postcard views of the lighthouse, perched high above the volcanic cliffs of Taiaroa Head. This historic lighthouse was the first one built on the South Island of NZ, back in 1864. Your expert skipper will get you up-close to rocky outcrops that stretch out to the ocean. This is where we find a large New Zealand fur seal colony. Watch them sleep, fight and play on the rocks and swim in the water around this breeding rookery.

We then cruise a short way out into the Pacific Ocean. Here you can spot rarely seen ocean birds including other smaller albatross species, cormorants and petrels. We also sometimes see blue penguins, dusky and hectors dolphins and other marine mammals.

More info:

Don't be put off by cold or windy days, the local wildlife love it - Viewing is often fantastic with a cool, brisk southerly wind! It generally smooths off the ocean, which means great cruising conditions and perfect updrafts to help the royal albatross return to their nests.

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!

We provide:

• Multi language information sheets
• Complimentary binoculars
• Complimentary warm & waterproof jackets
• Full commentary and assistance spotting wildlife
• Free wifi

Iconic cruises, operating for over 35 years in Dunedin, the Nature Capital of New Zealand!