Passengers board the Monarch to see what cannot be seen from land, to greet the mighty Northern Royal Albatross as it sweeps in from the open Pacific Ocean and soars above the spectacular inaccessible cliffs of Taiaroa. These escarpments are alive with eight other species of birds nesting above families of Fur Seals. Close offshore, huge flocks of Sooty Shearwaters feed among other Shearwaters, Petrels and other species of Albatross.
The abundance and diversity of wildlife makes a Monarch cruise different - a truly multi-species tour on a sheltered harbour that sparkles with scenic beauty, gems of geology and a colourful heritage.
Jackets and binoculars, a variety of food and refreshments, fully licensed bar all add to passenger comfort.
Operating since 1983
Winner of two NZ Tourism Board Awards Member of the NZ Adventure Tourism Council Member of the NZ Nature Marketing Network
Wildlife cruise from Wellers rock
Experience magnificent viewing of the exciting diversity of wildlife which abounds on spectacular Taiaroa Head; the only mainland nesting place for Northern Royal Albatross in the world, and home to N Z fur seals, and eight other nesting bird species. There’s always a possibility of seeing a fascinating array of rarely seen ocean birds including other species of albatross, penguins and marine mammals in their natural environment.
Cruises depart: from Wellers Rock Wharf situated on the Otago Peninsula, 45 minutes from City
Prices: $32
Harbour cruise and peninsula bus tour
Cruise the length of the beautiful Otago Harbour with us; enjoy the wildlife cruise of spectacular Taiaroa Head and a scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour. You can include a visit to the fascinating Royal Albatross Centre, or take a guided tour of the award-winning Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve.
Tours depart: morning and afternoon
Prices from: $75
Otago Peninsula package
This premier package includes the full Otago Harbour and Taiaroa Head wildlife cruise, scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour, and guided tours of the Royal Albatross Colony, the Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve and a visit to wading bird habitats. Options include a tour of Larnach Castle, one of Dunedin’s great landmarks or a visit to the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre with its absorbing display of local sealife.
Tours depart: morning
Prices from: $170
Dinner cruise
A unique experience for any occasion. Dine, celebrate, socialise or entertain as you cruise the stunning Otago Harbour aboard the Monarch. Explore the wildlife or just soak up the beauty of the city and harbour as evening turns to night. We can tailor cruises to suit your requirements.
Our menu options include Dinner, Supper and Cocktail Our on board fully licensed bar includes a good selection of NZ wines
Dinner cruise including wildlife $90 per head Dinner cruise $60 per head
Need more details?
For more information fill in the form below with your query and click "send", or simply phone us at Activities-nz on 64 4 972 0798.
