Otago Peninsula Wildlife Tour & Cruise

Dunedin, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (62 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    1-hour Monarch Wildlife Cruise
  • inclusion
    Complimentary binoculars and warm waterproof jackets
  • inclusion
    Guided Otago Peninsula tour by air-conditioned vehicle
  • inclusion
    GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • inclusion
    Live commentary from local guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Meals or drinks (please bring a packed lunch)

Meeting Point

Please check-in 15 minutes prior to your tours scheduled start time.

Meeting point

20 Fryatt Street, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016 , New Zealand

End point

End Point

Please check-in 15 minutes prior to your tours scheduled start time.

Meeting point

20 Fryatt Street, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016 , New Zealand

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
315 Euro Motel
538 Great King Motel
755 Regal Court Motel
858 George Street Motel
97 Motel Moray
Adrian Motel
Alexis Motor Lodge
Alhambra Oaks Motor Lodge
Allan Court Motel
Amross Motel
Argyle Court Motel
Aria on Bank
Aurora on George
Beechwood Boutique Accommodation
Bella Vista Dunedin
Bluestone on George
Cable Court Motel
Carisbrook Motel
Commodore Motel
Cumberland Motel
Distinction Dunedin Hotel
Dunedin
Dunedin Leisure Lodge - A Distinction Hotel
Dunedin Motel & Villas
Dunedin Palms Motel
EBB-DUNEDIN
Fable Dunedin
Garden Motel
George Street Motel Apartments
Heriot Lane City Apartments
High Street Court Motel
Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin
Leviathan Heritage Hotel
Manor Motel
Motel On Carroll
Motel On York
Ocean Beach Hotel
Owens Motel
Pacific Park Motel & Conference Centre
Quest Dunedin
Sahara Guesthouse & Motel
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
The Law Courts Hotel
The Victoria Hotel Dunedin
Woodlands Motels & Apartments

What to expect

1
Otago Peninsula

Enjoy a scenic drive across the beautiful roads of the Otago Peninsula. Take in the stunning views of the coast and harbour whilst your guide gives a full commentary.

Duration 120 minutes
2
Allans Beach

Take a short walk from the minivan to one of NZ's top beaches. You'll be treated to dramatic coastal scenery and offshore islands. Keep an eye out for the impressive NZ Sea Lions.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Monarch Wildlife Cruises - Wellers Rock Wharf

Hop aboard a special one-hour Wildlife Cruise aboard the MV Monarch. The crew will get you up-close to fur seals, royal albatross and other rare wildlife as you journey past the Taiaroa Head Lighthouse and out to sea.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4
The Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance

Your guide will take you on walking tour through a Yellow-eyed Penguin Conservation Reserve. You'll be given a behind-the-scenes look at the on-site rehab centre before going in to the reserve. This is a great chance to see the worlds rarest penguin in the wild!

Duration 90 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Check out the nearby Portobello Hotel for lunch.
  • icon
    Wear sturdy shoes for beach walks.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning views.
  • icon
    Plan to arrive early for best spots.
  • icon
    Look for sea lions at Allans Beach.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will be captivated by the Peninsula Encounters + Wildlife Cruise tour. This exceptional experience provides unrivaled access to remote locations and the opportunity to observe rare animals. Throughout the tour, you will visit various picturesque spots on the Otago Peninsula and take part in a special Wildlife Cruise, allowing you to witness the breathtaking beauty of Otago Harbour. With a knowledgeable guide providing personalized commentary, you will have the chance to spot magnificent Royal Albatross, playful Fur Seals, majestic Sea Lions, and adorable Yellow-eyed Penguins.

What to expect?

During this exciting tour, you can expect a total duration of 390 minutes filled with unforgettable moments. The itinerary begins with a scenic drive across the stunning roads of the Otago Peninsula, where you will enjoy breathtaking views of the coast and harbor while receiving a comprehensive commentary from your guide. Next, you'll embark on a short walk to one of New Zealand's top beaches, where you'll be treated to dramatic coastal scenery and the chance to spot impressive NZ Sea Lions. For the highlight of the tour, you'll hop aboard the MV Monarch for a special one-hour Wildlife Cruise, getting up-close to fur seals, royal albatross, and other rare wildlife as you journey past the Taiaroa Head Lighthouse and out to sea. The adventure concludes with a walking tour through a Yellow-eyed Penguin Conservation Reserve, where you'll witness the world's rarest penguin in its natural habitat.

Who is this for?

The Peninsula Encounters + Wildlife Cruise is tailored for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable and immersive experience in the breathtaking landscapes of the Otago Peninsula. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a photography buff, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of nature, this tour is perfect for you. Families, couples, and individuals of all ages will find joy in this adventure, as it offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand's natural wonders.

Why book this?

Book the Peninsula Encounters + Wildlife Cruise for an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking natural beauty with unrivaled access to remote locations. With its personalized commentary, this tour is not just a sightseeing journey but also an educational adventure, allowing you to deepen your understanding and appreciation for the local wildlife and conservation efforts. Getting up-close to magnificent Royal Albatross, playful Fur Seals, majestic Sea Lions, and adorable Yellow-eyed Penguins creates moments of pure connection with nature that will leave a lasting impact. The rare opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats, combined with the scenic beauty of the Otago Peninsula and Otago Harbour, make this tour a must-book experience for every nature enthusiast.

Good to know

During the Peninsula Encounters + Wildlife Cruise, it's essential to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. The tour has a total duration of 390 minutes, providing ample time to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the area. As you explore, remember to bring your camera to capture the once-in-a-lifetime moments you will encounter. The tour offers a balanced combination of sightseeing, walking, and cruising, ensuring a varied and engaging experience. Prepare to be amazed and inspired as you witness the beauty and biodiversity of the Otago Peninsula.

Reviews

Customers have expressed immense satisfaction after experiencing the Peninsula Encounters + Wildlife Cruise. They praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who not only provide valuable information but also ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Travelers are thrilled by the up-close encounters with seals, albatross, and penguins, which they describe as truly magical moments. Many comment that the tour exceeded their expectations, offering a unique and unforgettable opportunity to observe rare wildlife. The stunning views of the Otago Peninsula and the entertaining wildlife cruise further add to the exceptional experience. Overall, visitors highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking a remarkable adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and the perfect balance of education and leisure.

Select Currency