Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Hop aboard our sturdy vessel for a one-hour Wildlife Cruise, departing from Wellers Rock Wharf on the Otago Peninsula.
You'll cruise out of the Otago Harbour, beyond the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. Have your camera ready as these huge birds soar in from sea on three metre wings.
A historic lighthouse is perched high atop volcanic cliffs. Your skipper will guide the boat close to the rocks below, for great views of playful fur seals.
The boat will travel a short way out into the sea to look for other albatross and rare seabirds. On some trips we might spot little blue penguins, sea lions and occasionally dolphins.
Your local crew will provide a full commentary about the areas history, the volcanic scenery and wildlife spotted during your cruise .
Hot tip - Don't be put off by cool and windy weather. These can often be the best conditions for wildlife viewing and sea conditions. Albatross really love a brisk southerly wind!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Contact us if you are concerned about mobility or in a wheelchair
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
At the end of the Otago Harbour you'll find a beautiful historic lighthouse and the world's only mainland nesting colony of royal albatross. It's also home to other Southern Ocean wildlife like fur seals, sea lions, cormorants & more!
One hour Wildlife Cruises departing daily from Wellers Rock Wharf.
What‘s Included
Live commentary from experienced crew
Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
Warm waterproof jackets
High-quality binoculars
1-hour wildlife cruise
Food and drinks (snacks can be purchased onboard)
Transport to the wharf from Dunedin city. We have other options if you don't have your own car.
Options
Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch
Reviews
228 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great trip
Lynne P,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great informative shipper and crew really enjoyed it. We saw hector dolphins, albatross, seals and even a blue penguin.
Albatross
karl w,,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Everything you need is on board. The staff all know their wildlife and where to see it. Great to see 2 types of Albatross soaring in the air.
You gotta do this one
melaniewF6422BP,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely fabulous trip with amazing commentary. Seemed more than an hour long and we saw orca 4 types of albatross, petrel, shearwater and fur seals.
Wonderful way to see the Peninsula and Taiaroa Headland
Leanne W,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This cruise was a lot of fun. We saw various wildlife including Sea lions, Shags, both Northern and Southern Albatross. The guys worked hard to show us as much as possible. It was a lovely way to see the peninsula, including the Taiaroa Headland and lighthouse.
It was a lovely...
Hendrik G,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a lovely experience.. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable about the marine animals. Amazing scenery
Smattering of wildlife
jimeB9040IX,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Misled us into thinking we might possibly see penguins. Turns out you have to book an entirely separate excursion for that and it happens at nine at night. Only a little wildlife to observe. So disappointed.
Lovely way to spend an afternoon!
Michelle E,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful drive along the coast to reach the boat. The staff were friendly and very helpful and the captain was very knowledgeable. It was cold and raining a little, but the jackets the supply were really warm.
Great way to see albatross
Global44568361802,,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00It is certainly a better way to see albatross than just visiting peninsula and expecting some albatross to fly by. Captain was really knowledgeable and helped us track albatross, penguins and seals. Binoculars provided were added advantage.
A lottery as to whether...
Malcolm C,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A lottery as to whether you see penguins and albatrosses but so much other wildlife so a great experience
Great trip
Journey50286887257,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Really enjoyed the trip, would fully recommend. Skipper was very informative and went out of his way to find the wildlife.
From NZ$70.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours