Port Chalmers, Dunedin, New Zealand

A port of call not to be missed ...

Port Chalmers is attracting more cruise ship visitors every year. It has become a favourite for for those 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 8.45am inside the port and returned at least 1 hour prior to the ships scheduled departure time.

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. Your guide will provide an informative interpretation of a city that has some of the finest and oldest buildings in the country.

Baldwin Street - This is in the Guinness book of records as the 'steepest street in the world’ and has opened the lungs of visitors world-wide.

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 and are great believers in education, the original Otago University building is an architectural masterpiece, it was built in 1869 and the first university of New Zealand.

Dunedin Railway Station - This building is an absolute gem and they certainly don't make them like this anymore. Originally the people of Dunedin were unhappy with the amount of time and money involved in constructing this architectural masterpiece but these days it represents the pride of a city that helped build the foundations of New Zealand.

Larnach Castle* - this is the highlight for many. Learn about our native plants as our guide takes you for a wee nature walk through the native gardens. About 80% of New Zealand flora is endemic so we look forward to introducing you to some of these species. You also have the option of going inside the castle (Additional $15.00NZD per person) that has been restored to its original grandeur or choose to wander the gardens that are of international significance.

Afternoon

We go to the places the big buses can't and have made sure the tour is flexible enough to enjoy chance encounters with wildlife.

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.

Bird watching - The Otago Peninsula is home to many species of wader and waterfowl. The scenic inlets and harbour provide a vital food source that attract birdwatchers from all over the world.

Otakou Marae - 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. Our guide will take you to the best observation point to see the Royal Albatross.

Please note, you have the option of joining a 45 minute tour of the nesting area that will enhance your viewing (Additional $40.00NZD).

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 close up viewing of this endangered species.

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

Cost ($NZD )

Adult - $175.00 ($215.00 with Albatross Tour option)
Child - $119.00 ($141.50 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. We hope this gives you peace of mind when booking with Back to Nature Tours.

Please contact us to check the availability of your chosen date.