Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise

Dr David Bellamy (the internationally acclaimed environmentalist) once described the Otago Peninsula as ‘the finest example of eco tourism in the world!’, so you know you’re in for a treat when you tour this magnificent area with Monarch Wildlife Cruises!

Operating since 1983, Monarch Cruises are experts when it comes to showing off this Peninsula, and that is because each and every guide is deeply passionate about the area and its wonderful inhabitants – albatross, penguins, marine mammals, and ocean birds. After each tour, you will walk away with a smile on your face and new knowledge of the history and geology of the Dunedin area.

The 1 hour Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock Wharf is the perfect introduction to the abundance of wildlife that calls Dunedin home. Departing from Wellers Wharf (only 45 minutes from Dunedin) this one hour cruise will open you up to a world of wonder. With unrivalled views of Taiaroa Head, you will see an amazing diversity of wildlife, including New Zealand Fur Seals, eight nesting bird species and the only mainland Northern Royal Albatross nesting place in the world! If you’re lucky, you will also see dolphins, sea lions, penguins, other marine mammals and some of the rare ocean birds and albatross that visit or inhabit this area.

City to Sea Tour (half day tour) You will be amazed at the beauty as you cruise along the entire length of the amazing Otago Harbour. Along the way, you will enjoy views of the historic fishing village, Careys Bay, as well as the working port of Port Chalmers. The Wildlife Cruise (as described above) will allow you to see an amazing variety of marine mammals and birdlife and the bus trip displays some gorgeous scenery along the Peninsula.

Peninsula Encounters Tour (full day tour) Experience more of Dunedin's renowned wildlife on the Peninsula Encounter tour, with a guided tour of the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve and a chance to explore the Royal Albatross Centre. Take a scenic bus tour along the scenic high road from Dunedin to a remote beach on the Otago Peninsula, where you can take a guided walk with opportunities to spot sea lions and enjoy rugged scenery. Continue your bus tour to stop off at each of your wildlife encounters before taking the Otago Peninsula low road along the harbour back to Dunedin.

Castle to Cruise Tour (full day tour) Combine your Dunedin sightseeing tour and wildlife encounters with a visit to the picturesque Larnach Castle. Starting in Dunedin, your scenic bus tour takes the high road above the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle, built in 1871. Enjoy a guided tour of this top Dunedin visitor attraction, as well as free time to explore the grounds and cafe at your leisure. Then board a 1 hour Wildlife Cruise at Wellers Rock Wharf, where you can look out for fur seals, royal albatross, volcanic cliffs and lighthouses, before a return Otago Harbour Cruise back to Dunedin. You can also choose to add on a guided tour of the Penguin Place Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve, in which case you will return to Dunedin by bus.