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 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!
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
This 2 hour harbour cruise was fantastic. We were fortunate to have spectacular weather & were able to go out through the heads. We saw a number of pods of hector dolphins up close swimming with the boat. Very informative information & friendly helpful crew. Well worth doing this trip.
This was a wonderful experience. The team were so lovely and knowledgeable. It was also humbling to be told that because we hadn't seen the dolphins properly that they would give us a voucher to come again. Totally unexpected and such a genuine offer.
Nice day out on the harbour. Comfortable ride out to heads and back.
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mazz from Australia wrote on 31 October 2025
Awesome trip
Weather wasnt in our favour on our cruise day as it was quite windy and tad wet and sadly no dolphin wanted to play about with us - few penguins bobbing around and some seals lazing about - but it was a nice outing none the less. Beautiful part of the world !