Port Chalmers, Dunedin, New Zealand

A port of call not to be missed ...

Port Chalmers is attracting more cruise ship visits every year. It has become a favourite for visitors cruising the South Pacific and we pride ourselves in the organising of small group tours (max 11 people) that are exciting, relaxed and informative. The Back to Nature Cruise Ship tour allows individuals, couples or groups to join other cruisers on a magical day out.

If you would like to create your own itinerary for your party try our NEW 'Customized Tour' option.

ADVANCED BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL.

LARGER GROUPS CAN BE ACCOMODATED UPON REQUEST

The Back to Nature Cruise Ship Tour

Pick up @ Port Chalmers - we generally pick up clients at 8.30am inside the port. If your cruise ship is running late we will pick you up a soon as you can disembark.

Morning City Tour

We take you to see some of the key attractions of the 'Scottish' city of the South Island. It's a great opportunity to get off the bus and enjoy the unique views and historic architecture unlike anywhere else in NZ. Dunedin was once the largest city in NZ during the gold rush and is home to some of its oldest buildings.

Baldwin Street - This is in the Guinness book of records as the 'steepest street in the world.'

Signal Hill - A drive to the top of Signal Hill will allow us to point out the key features of our city.

Otago University - The Scots were great believers in education and decided to build this architectural masterpiece in 1869 when the population swelled. It is the first and most prestigious university in New Zealand, providing facilities for over 20 000 students.

Railway Station - This building is an absolute gem and they certainly don't make them like this anymore. The prominent Oamaru stone can be seen in many early NZ buildings.

Larnach Castle* - this is the highlight for many. The gardens are one of the finest in NZ and a great place to take a short stroll with the song of the bellbird in the distance. Learn about our native plants as our guide takes you for a wee nature walk. You also have the option of going inside the castle that has been restored to its original grandeur. Enjoy Lunch in the ballroom that was built as a birthday present to William Larnach's daughter.

Afternoon

We go to the places the big buses can't and make sure the tour is flexible enough to take in any chance wildlife encounters.

Lunch (included) - enjoy lunch at a local kiwi pub with magnificent harbour views and a tasty menu

Scenic tour of the Otago Peninsula - you will see some of the finest scenery of the peninsula as we take to the narrow gravel roads. The Otago Peninsula was formed by a volcanic eruption 13 million years ago and there is evidence everywhere.

Bird watching - the inlets are home to many waders and waterfowl, a great chance to see the Royal Spoonbill, Bar-tailed Godwit and Pukeko.

Otakou Marae - visit this wonderful marae and learn about the fascinating history of Maori on the Otago Peninsula. All access points to the sea on the peninsula would have been visited and inhabited at some point by the Maori, a people of the elements. (please note we do not go into the Marae)

Albatross Centre* - A great chance to view one of the largest sea-birds in the world at their only mainland breeding colony. You have the option of joining the 1 hour tour of the nesting area, viewing these birds from the Richdale Observatory. This tour is an additional $40.00NZD per person. There is a 70% chance of seeing the royal Albatross fly for free at this time of the day. If you would prefer to freedom view these birds with your guide there is no additional cost. The area is surrounded with natural beauty and interest, clients who choose not to join the Albatross Tour will be entertained by the guide.

Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve (Penguin Place) - view one of the rarest penguins in the world through a series of tunnels and hides. The tour duration is 1.5 hours and involves easy walking and magnificent close up viewing of this endangered species.

Drop - Off @ Port Chalmers (generally 1 hour prior to sailing)

Cost ($NZD )

Adult - $165.00 ($205.00 with Albatross Tour option)
Child - $115.00 ($145.00 with Albatross Tour option)

Clients will be fully refunded the next working day if their ship is unable to make it into port due to weather or mechanical difficulties.

Tour includes pick up/drop off from Port Chalmers, guide, comfortable vehicle, entry fees for Larnach Castle Gardens and entry into Penguin Place. Clients have the option to go inside the Larnach Castle, this is an additional $15 and can be paid on the day of the tour. If you would like to join the Albatross Tour please let us know at least 3 weeks prior to your tour so we can reserve spaces for you.

Please contact us to check the availability of your chosen date. Bring warm clothing as parts of the Otago Peninsula are exposed to cold SW winds. Please remember to bring identification with you when you leave the ship as security is similar to an airport. Light refreshments will be provided on our bus.

*Additional Option

Entrance into the Royal Albatross Centre

You are guaranteed to see these majestic birds as they sit on there nest. You will view these beautiful birds from the Richdale Observatory at Taiaroa Head.

- Additional $40.00NZD

Entrance into Larnach Castle

The interior has been restored to its original state with superb craftsmanship throughout. The views from the tower across the Otago Peninsula are breathtaking.

- Additional $15.00NZD