From Christchurch: Akaroa Day Tour With Optional Cruise

Christchurch serves as the gateway to the picturesque Akaroa, a town steeped in French heritage and natural wonders. Embarking on this day tour, visitors can enjoy the region’s stunning scenery, from the serene Governors Bay to the dramatic Gebbies Pass. The highlight of the excursion is the optional Nature Cruise, where the chance to spot elusive Hector’s dolphins and curious fur seals awaits. But the journey doesn’t end there – a delightful cheese tasting at the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory promises to delight the senses and uncover the area’s rich dairy legacy. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour offers a tantalizing glimpse into the heart of Akaroa.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Christchurch.

Key Points

• Scenic day tour from Christchurch to the picturesque town of Akaroa, with an optional wildlife-spotting cruise in Akaroa Harbor.
• Highlights include visits to Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere, and Little River, as well as a cheese tasting at Barrys Bay Cheese Factory.
• Tour duration is 8 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
• Knowledgeable guides provide commentary in multiple languages, enhancing the personalized and engaging experience.
• Opportunity to observe Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and native penguins during the optional Nature Cruise.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Akaroa Day Tour departs from Christchurch and offers a full-day excursion to the charming Banks Peninsula town of Akaroa. Priced from $113.60 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option. The tour takes guests through scenic landscapes, including Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere, and Little River.

An optional Akaroa Nature Cruise allows visitors to spot Hector’s dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, and volcanic cliffs. The tour also includes a visit to the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory for a local cheese tasting experience.

Itinerary Highlights

During the Akaroa Day Tour, visitors can look forward to passing through several scenic locations, including Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Ellesmere, and Little River.

The highlight of the tour is the optional Akaroa Nature Cruise, which offers the chance to spot Hector’s dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, blue penguins, and yellow-eyed penguins against the backdrop of the area’s volcanic cliffs.

In addition, the tour includes a visit to the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory, where guests can sample locally produced cheeses.

With a range of language options available and the convenience of hotel pickup, the Akaroa Day Tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for visitors to the region.

Transportation Details

The tour includes pickup from any hotel in Christchurch Central, with contact required for pickups outside the city.

Guests will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle provided as part of the tour. This comfortable transportation ensures a seamless journey to the picturesque town of Akaroa.

The reliable and efficient transportation service allows travelers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive through the Canterbury region.

Whether you’re coming from a hotel in the city center or need a pickup from a different location, the tour operator will coordinate the transportation details to make your Akaroa day trip as convenient and enjoyable as possible.

Guided Experience

Knowledgeable tour guides lead the Akaroa Day Tour, providing commentary in English, Hindi, Korean, and Punjabi to accommodate a diverse range of visitors.

Guests can choose between private or small group tours, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience throughout the day’s activities.

Whether you prefer an intimate setting or a more social atmosphere, the tour guides are experts at bringing the region’s history and natural wonders to life.

With their deep knowledge and passion for the area, they’ll ensure you make the most of your time in Akaroa, from the scenic drives to the optional wildlife cruise and cheese tasting.

The guided experience is a key highlight of this comprehensive day tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hector’s Dolphins and Seals

One of the highlights of the Akaroa Day Tour is the optional Akaroa Nature Cruise, which provides the opportunity to spot Hector’s dolphins and New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitats.

Hector’s dolphins are the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species, found only in the coastal waters of New Zealand’s South Island. During the cruise, visitors can marvel at these playful and curious creatures as they frolic in the waves.

The cruise also offers sightings of New Zealand fur seals, which can be seen basking on the rocks or swimming gracefully through the clear blue waters.

This unique wildlife encounter is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Akaroa.

Barrys Bay Cheese Tasting

During the Akaroa Day Tour, visitors can indulge in a cheese-tasting experience at the renowned Barrys Bay Cheese Factory, where they’ll sample a variety of locally crafted artisanal cheeses.

Established in 1989, this family-owned business takes pride in its traditional cheesemaking methods, using only the freshest local ingredients.

Guests can explore the factory’s charming atmosphere and learn about the intricate process of cheese production.

From creamy bries to tangy cheddars, the tasting allows travelers to discover the unique flavors and textures that make Barrys Bay Cheese a local favorite.

This stop on the Akaroa Day Tour offers a delightful opportunity to savor the rich dairy heritage of the region.

Optional Akaroa Nature Cruise

The Akaroa Day Tour offers an optional Nature Cruise that allows visitors to witness the stunning natural wonders of the Akaroa Harbor.

Travelers can observe a variety of marine life, including the playful Hector’s dolphins, majestic New Zealand fur seals, and the captivating blue and yellow-eyed penguins, all set against the backdrop of the region’s volcanic cliffs.

The cruise provides an up-close and personal encounter with these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Some key highlights of the Akaroa Nature Cruise include:

• Spotting the rare and endangered Hector’s dolphins, known for their friendly and sociable behavior

• Watching the graceful movements of the New Zealand fur seals as they sun themselves on the rocky shores

• Catching a glimpse of the elusive blue and yellow-eyed penguins, native to the region

Important Information

According to the information provided, the Akaroa Day Tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users, as large luggage or bags are not allowed on the tour. Plus, the price does not cover any additional activities, food, drinks, or gratuities.

Suitability	Luggage Restrictions	Inclusions	Exclusions
Not suitable for wheelchair users	Large luggage or bags not allowed	Pickup, transportation, live tour guide	Additional activities, food, drinks, gratuities

It’s important to keep these key details in mind when booking and preparing for the Akaroa Day Tour. Travelers should plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Recap

This Akaroa day tour from Christchurch offers a captivating blend of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and culture.

Travelers can witness the stunning natural beauty of the region, spot Hector’s dolphins and seals, and indulge in a delightful cheese tasting at the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory.

With the optional Nature Cruise, visitors can delve deeper into the area’s diverse marine life.

This full-day excursion provides an unforgettable way to explore the picturesque Akaroa and its surroundings.

You can check if your dates are available here: