Sailing and Wildlife Tour Akaroa Fox II Sailing
Description
Sail inside the crater of an extinct volcano on a quiet, intimate wildlife cruise with a maximum of 30 guests. This small-group experience offers long, respectful encounters with some of the rarest dolphins in the world, set against dramatic volcanic scenery. Enjoy a 3-hour eco-friendly sailing adventure aboard a peaceful sailboat, where the absence of engine noise allows close encounters with penguins, seals and albatross in their natural environment. Sail on the Fox II, New Zealand’s oldest ketch, over 100 years old, and be part of living maritime history. Discover spectacular sea caves, cliffs and waterfalls, then venture into the open Pacific on a safe, serene and unforgettable journey. Low impact, authentic and nature-focused—this is one of New Zealand’s most unique sailing and wildlife experiences.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Built in 1880 and moved to this site in 1980. The original lighthouse from Akaroa Heads.
See Akaroa Harbour and all the animals including Hectors Dolphins, NZ Fur Seals, Little Blue Penguins and Albatross
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(93)
I’mAs someone who doesn't often leave reviews, I rarely do so, but this trip was exceptional. I had a fantastic experience with my kids, and I highly recommend it because of its great value. The captain and staff were excellent.
Thank you so much for your review. We are a very small team and work hard to make sure that each trip is special for our guests. We love to read that you loved it! Be sure to come again!
What a wonderful trip ! A boat with history, to match the township of Akaroa led by a man who obviously loves this area and is not only knowledgeable on a factual level but also able to share local knowledge as well . The sail through the heads was an absolute highlight today ! Make sure you don’t miss this opportunity !
Thank you so much Michele for your lovely review. We do believe that Captain Roy's storytelling is something really special, and it's always nice to read it is appreciated!
Highly Recommended – Fox II Sailing Cruise with Captain Roy (Akaroa) Our cruise on the Fox II was exceptional. Captain Roy and his crew were incredibly knowledgeable, welcoming, and attentive. They took the time to share detailed insights about the area’s history, culture, and wildlife, which made the experience both relaxing and informative. The boat itself is fantastic—beautifully maintained, with a small group size that allows plenty of space to move around. We especially enjoyed being out on deck near the mast, taking in the fresh breeze and stunning scenery. Captain Roy is an excellent guide with deep knowledge of the region. During our cruise, we saw an abundance of wildlife—dolphins, numerous seabirds, and even a small colony of baby seals playing in tidal pools while waiting for their parents to return. That was a real highlight. The refreshments were also a nice touch—delicious cookies, tea, and hot chocolate were provided, with additional beverages like beer and kombucha available for purchase. One unique aspect was Captain Roy’s thoughtfully curated music playlist, perfectly matched to the moment. It added a special ambiance—at one point, “Waltzing Matilda” played, and later “Red Sails in the Sunset” as we moved along the water. When conditions allowed, the engine was cut and we sailed quietly, which made the experience even more peaceful and memorable. Overall, this was a truly enjoyable and well-run cruise. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Akaroa.
Thank you for your in-depth review. It's so nice to see that you appreciated so many aspects from our cruise. It's also nice to know that you loved Captain Roy's playlist as much as the dolphins ;)
Very highly rated. The crew are relaxed and very welcoming and clearly know their stuff. The Skipper's commentary brought everything to life and the background music was well chosen to add to the atmosphere! And sailing on a ketch with such history was a real USP!
Thank you for your review. We do think that Captain Roy's storytelling (and his playlist) make the trip really special!
Captain Roy and Amie were super committed. Dolphins were attracted to the music. Very nice and atmospheric tour.
Thank you so much for your review Martin. We're a small team and it's always a pleasure to know that our work and our music tastes are appreciated!
A great trip, mostly using the engine but also sail. Even when a warm day it can be cold out in the bay, so do take a windproof, though the crew provide coats if you are cold. The first drink offered is paid for (cans of soft drink, beer etc) 2nd on the way back is tea, coffee, hot chocolate and a cookie which is included. We saw dolphins multiple times, also seals and pups, various birds including a little blue penguin and an albatross. It was a very enjoyable trip, with the captain giving information on the bay. It was a lovely clear day so the bay was at its best
Thank you for your feedback, Lindsey! We always try to sail as much as possible, although sometimes wind or time constraints prevent us from doing so. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know what we could improve to earn a five-star review!
A truly enjoyable morning yesterday! Roy, Emmie and Ocean looked after us very well and were very pleasant and informative. So nice to sail on a sailing boat. A different experience altogether to the usual boat experience. The music at our various stops really enhanced the experience, and the historical story Roy provided was enriching and enlightening. Such a gorgeous location! And so thrilled to see the unique, rare and small dolphins in the Bay. We also saw baby and mature seals. Highly highly recommend!
Thank you for your nice comments and review. We hope that you will be able to come back to Akaroa and see us again.
Fine hazards and dolphins and seals seen
Thank you for the nice review.
Great trip, Roy & Ocean were excellent, the Dolphins experience was terrific ( Ocean even shared her video with us ) , but it was very windy out there, rug up this is the NZ south coast 💕
Thank you Wayne for your feedback! This summer has been more elusive than wildlife, that's why we do offer coats as an extra layer! Don't hesitate to reach out and let us know what we can improve to earn a 5-stars review!
Fantastic experience and great value. Roy and Emmie looked after us very well. Sailing with the Hector's dolphins at the harbour entrance was the highlight - but spotting seals and seabirds, the harbour scenery, and enjoying being under sail on such a beautiful old ketch all added to a wonderful 3h trip. Roy is a relaxed captain and provided an informative but not intrusive commentary.
Thank you for your review! We're a two person team (sometimes three) and we work hard to make each trip special. We are glad you could see how unique our Harbour and its wildlife truly is.
