Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch
Overview
Hop aboard our sturdy vessel for a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, departing from Wellers Rock Wharf on the Otago Peninsula.
You'll cruise out of the Otago Harbour, beyond the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. Have your camera ready as these huge birds soar in from sea on three metre wings.
A historic lighthouse is perched high atop volcanic cliffs. Your skipper will guide the boat close to the rocks below, for great views of playful fur seals.
The boat will travel a short way out into the sea to look for other albatross and rare seabirds. On some trips we might spot little blue penguins, sea lions and occasionally dolphins.
Your local crew will provide a full commentary about the areas history, the volcanic scenery and wildlife spotted during your cruise .
Hot tip - Don't be put off by cool and windy weather. These can often be the best conditions for wildlife viewing and sea conditions. Albatross really love a brisk southerly wind!
What's Included
- Live commentary from experienced crew
- Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
- Warm waterproof jackets
- High-quality binoculars
- 1-hour wildlife cruise
- Food and drinks (snacks can be purchased onboard)
- Transport to the wharf from Dunedin city. We have other options if you don't have your own car.
Meeting Location
813 Harington Point Road
Otakou 9077, New Zealand
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Book Online
Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free
Taiaroa Head
1 hour Admission Ticket Free
Monarch Wildlife Cruises - Wellers Rock Wharf
1 hour Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Contact us if you are concerned about mobility or in a wheelchair
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
Q: Will I get seasick on Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-195993P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.70 out of 5 stars based on 242 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
Similar Tours & Activities
Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. You'll see the...
$97
Heritage Highlights Walk
Dunedin is a great wee city and is best explored on foot. Once New Zealand's largest city, and now a university town, Dunedin boasts picturesque...
$29
Venture into New Zealand's stunning southern coast on a full-day tour from Dunedin to Te Anau, where the rugged beauty of the Catlins awaits. Explore...
$165
Small group tours, by Otago Harbour's most experienced skipper/guide! You wont find a wildlife guide with more experience on Otago harbour then owner/operator Rachel McGregor....
$109
Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. You'll see the...
$97
Dunedin is a great wee city and is best explored on foot. Once New Zealand's largest city, and now a university town, Dunedin boasts picturesque...
$29
Venture into New Zealand's stunning southern coast on a full-day tour from Dunedin to Te Anau, where the rugged beauty of the Catlins awaits. Explore...
$165
Small group tours, by Otago Harbour's most experienced skipper/guide! You wont find a wildlife guide with more experience on Otago harbour then owner/operator Rachel McGregor....
$109
Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
See up to 200 blue penguins returning from sea in the evening! (Generally more penguins are seen over the spring/summer than our autumn or winter...
$34
Olveston Historic Home Guided Tour
Admire the fine architecture, gardens and decor of the elegant Olveston Historic Home during a 1-hour guided tour of this must-see attraction in Dunedin. You...
$15
Journey deep into the Taieri Gorge on a 5-hour heritage rail experience from Dunedin. Cross spectacular viaducts, hand-carved tunnels, and step onto the Deep Stream...
$96
Visit New Zealand’s only Castle, situated on the dramatic Otago Peninsula and only a 20-minute drive from central Dunedin. Learn about the colonial history and...
$29
See up to 200 blue penguins returning from sea in the evening! (Generally more penguins are seen over the spring/summer than our autumn or winter...
$34
Admire the fine architecture, gardens and decor of the elegant Olveston Historic Home during a 1-hour guided tour of this must-see attraction in Dunedin. You...
$15
Journey deep into the Taieri Gorge on a 5-hour heritage rail experience from Dunedin. Cross spectacular viaducts, hand-carved tunnels, and step onto the Deep Stream...
$96
Visit New Zealand’s only Castle, situated on the dramatic Otago Peninsula and only a 20-minute drive from central Dunedin. Learn about the colonial history and...
$29
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Live commentary from experienced crew.
- Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi.
- Warm waterproof jackets.
- High-quality binoculars.
- 1-hour wildlife cruise.
- Food and drinks (snacks can be purchased onboard).
- Transport to the wharf from Dunedin city. We have other options if you don't have your own car.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Contact us if you are concerned about mobility or in a wheelchair
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Live commentary from experienced crew
- Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
- Warm waterproof jackets
- High-quality binoculars
- 1-hour wildlife cruise
- Food and drinks (snacks can be purchased onboard)
- Transport to the wharf from Dunedin city. We have other options if you don't have your own car.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Contact us if you are concerned about mobility or in a wheelchair
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers
