About us
It all started in 1985 when two pioneers took a chance
Akaroa Nature Cruise is operated by Black Cat Cruises, here’s our story.
it started with a dinghy
From humble beginnings carrying a few hundred people per year in small canoes and dinghies, founders Ron and Durelle Bingham had two goals which we still follow closely: a 364 days-a-year commitment to getting out on the water (we only take a day off on Christmas Day!). Such dedication means it takes a mighty southerly wind to stop our skippers from operating.
The other is to raise the profile of New Zealand’s endangered wildlife including the Hector’s Dolphins, Fur Seals and Little Blue penguins.
Eco-tourism pioneer
Black Cat Cruises actively supports research and conservation efforts, funding equipment, advocacy and data collection. We sponsor the New Zealand Whale and Dolphins Trust, contributing to valuable research that helps us better understand Hector’s dolphin and how to minimise human impact to revive the endangered species population.
We’ve been recognised by the Department of Conservation as a SMART operator, participates in the Tiaki Promise and is awarded Qualmark Gold.
COME AND EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF
AKAROA NATURE CRUISE
A 2-hour nature and wildlife cruise in the beautiful Akaroa harbour. See Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, marine birds and sail through an extinct volcanic crater.
SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS
Tick off your bucket list and experience what it’s like to swim with Hector's dolphin, under the care of our crew to ensure we respect their natural behaviour and habitat.