Christchurch Wildlife Cruises depart from Lyttelton, only 15 minutes from central Christchurch. Make a Wildlife Cruise on Lyttelton Harbour part of your Banks Peninsula exploration or it is close enough to just do the return trip from Christchurch by car or free shuttle buses departing regularly from the Cathedral Square if required.

Cruise Highlights

Unwind in the sea air as we whisk you away to experience the extensive local marine life including the world's smallest and rarest marine dolphin - the Hector's or New Zealand Dolphins. Watch also for the New Zealand Fur Seal and White Flippered Blue Penguin

As the boat departs you will see the historic township of Lyttelton, which hosts a busy working port with a fascinating history. The 'first four ships' arrived here direct from the Britain carrying the first Canterbury settlers in December 1850.

The highlight of the cruise is undoubtedly the location of the Hector's Dolphin. The experience of the skipper and crew mean we can quickly locate the dolphins and spend time watching their antics. You'll also see a wide variety of coastal marine bird life.

Lyttelton Harbour is an extinct volcanic crater and we will point out the longest lava flow on the peninsula, volcanic rocks and massive erosion caused by storms over millions of years.

From more recent times you'll see old shipwrecks in the shallows as well as a 19th century fort which contains a number of disappearing guns.

The cruise is fully narrated by your Captain and we're sure you'll be entertained and enlightened by his commentary.