Monarch One-Hour Cruise
1 hour · Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours
from $42.56 per person Check availability →
Port To Port Albatross Cruise
Albatross, seals, and sea birds-Wildlife Cruise
from $107.81 per person
Check Price & Availability →Opens the live booking page with current dates. Book there; nothing is charged on this site. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Duration
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Group
- Small group, maximum 14 travellers
- Meeting point
- Port Chalmers, near the cruise terminal
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Run by
- Port To Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours Ltd
Overview
This hour and a half cruise leaves from Port Chalmers and heads out in search of Royal Albatross, fur seals, and the seabirds that feed in these waters. A skipper who knows the harbour runs the boat and gives live commentary the whole way, on the wildlife and on the local history. Adults get quality binoculars to use on board, and everyone receives a wildlife identification sheet so the species you spot can be ticked off as the trip goes.
The trip spends its time on the water searching for wildlife, with the skipper steering toward wherever the birds and seals are likely to be. Sightings vary with the day. Many travellers report multiple albatross species, some at very close range, along with seals, sea lions, dolphins, terns and shags. A few reviewers on calm, quiet days saw only scattered birds and a couple of seals, which is the honest reality of wildlife watching.
With a cap of 14 travellers, the group stays small enough for everyone to move along the rail and ask questions.
- Monarch Cruise, Geology Commentary$39
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- Coastal Adventures Harbour Cruise$73.76
- Shore Excursion Cruise With Pickup$79.44
- Port To Port Albatross Cruise (this tour)$107.81
- Albatross Cruise, 2 Hours$107.81
What's Included
Included
- Small-group tours
- Experienced guides
- Live commentary on board
- Use of high quality binoculars for adults
- Wildlife Identification sheet provided
Itinerary
- Meet at Port ChalmersMake your own way to Port To Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours at Port Chalmers. The meeting point is a short flat walk from the cruise terminal building, and no pickup is provided.
- Board the boatCheck in with the crew, collect your wildlife identification sheet, and pick up a pair of binoculars if you want them. There is no admission fee for the operator's location itself.
- Cruise the harbour and coastThe boat runs out onto the water while the skipper gives live commentary on the harbour and its history. Keep watch for albatross, fur seals, sea lions, dolphins and the many seabirds in the area.
- Return to Port ChalmersThe full experience runs 1.5 hours from departure, ending back where you started.
What To Expect From The Tour
A few practical points will make the difference between a comfortable trip and a cold, wet one.
- Dress warmly. Sea spray can happen at times, so dress warmly just in case.
- Small group feel. The trip is capped at 14 travellers, and reviewers repeatedly say the small number means everyone can see the wildlife easily. Expect a personal trip rather than a big-boat excursion.
- Bringing children. Pushchairs are accessible, infant seats are available, and service animals are allowed.
- Binoculars and ID sheet. High quality binoculars for adults and a wildlife identification sheet are included. A reviewer described receiving a check list sheet on board, which works well for children and keen birders alike.
- Wildlife is not guaranteed. Most reviewers report albatross, seals and a wide mix of seabirds, sometimes very close to the boat. A minority saw only a few birds and seals on their day, so treat sightings as likely but never certain.
- Photography. Travellers describe seeing albatross at extremely close quarters on the water, with reviewers reporting sightings of fur seals as well.
Common issues. Wildlife sightings depend entirely on conditions and the day, and at least one reviewer reported seeing very little despite fine weather. The boat is not wheelchair accessible. The operator requires a minimum number of travellers and good weather; if either is not met, you are offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the start time to receive a full refund.
Common Questions
What Is Included In The Price?
Inclusions are a small-group tour, experienced guides, live commentary on board, use of high quality binoculars for adults, and a wildlife identification sheet. There is no admission fee for the operator's departure location itself. Food and drink are not included, though some reviewers mention being offered Anzac biscuits as a bonus.
Is There Hotel Pickup?
No pickup is provided. Departure is from Port To Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours at Port Chalmers, a short flat walk from the cruise terminal building, and the meeting point is near public transportation. Check the booking page for the exact meeting details before you travel.
How Long Is The Cruise?
The experience runs 1.5 hours.
Is It Suitable For Children And People With Limited Mobility?
Pushchair accessible, infant seats available, service animals allowed, and most travellers can participate. Reviewers with a toddler praised the crew's preparation, and one reviewer praised the staff as very supportive of passengers. However, the boat is not wheelchair accessible.
What Is The Cancellation Policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside 24 hours, no refund is given and changes are not accepted.
What Should I Wear And Bring?
Dress warmly and bring a windproof layer, because sea spray can occur at times and reviewers note the ride can be choppy in wind. Wear a facemask if you have been recently unwell.
Compare And Book Tours
Live dates, times and prices are on the booking page.
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