Port to Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours

Welcome to Port to Port Cruises and Wildlife Tours, located at 837 Portobello Road in Otago, New Zealand. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Dunedin, you've come to the right place!

Join our expert guide and skipper, Rachel, onboard her custom-built boat, Sootychaser, as we embark on a 2-hour cruise along the stunning Otago Harbour. Prepare to be amazed as we search for seals, sea lions, albatross, penguins, sea birds, and other incredible wildlife at Taiaroa Head Nature Reserve. Throughout the journey, Rachel will share fascinating insights about the working Port at Port Chalmers, shipwrecks on Quarantine Island, the volcanic nature of the area, and the rich history of early European settlers and whaling.

But our offerings don't stop there. If you're a cycling enthusiast, you can also embark on a 36 km adventure along the flat, paved shared cycle and walkway from Portobello to Port Chalmers. To complete "The Loop," catch our Port to Port ferry for a fun and exciting crossing between the ports. Along the way, visit www.dunedincycleway.co.nz for ideas on what to do during your ride. Book now for a unique cycle ferry experience!

Our water taxi service is a popular choice for families, tourists, work parties, and special occasions. Whether you're exploring the playground at Portobello, enjoying a beverage on the other side of the harbour, or going on a Treasure Hunt at Quarantine Island, our ferry will take you there. You can even bring your bike or dog on board! During the journey, our informative commentary will ensure you don't miss any of the breathtaking scenery that Otago Harbour has to offer.

For wildlife enthusiasts, we collaborate with wildlife pencil artist Ferne Eagle to bring you custom-printed T-shirts, masks, hats, and more featuring local wildlife. You can order these unique products online or find some available onboard Sootychaser. We also offer overseas and local shipping.

Wildlife is abundant at Taiaroa Head throughout the year, with subantarctic visitors such as albatross species and Giant Petrels making appearances during the winter. Join Rachel onboard Sootychaser to witness the beauty of seals, albatross, and much more up close and personal.

Our Wildlife Cruise with Rachel to Taiaroa Head Nature Reserve is a two-hour adventure filled with high-quality binoculars, full commentary, and the opportunity to see the famous Taiaroa Head lighthouse, as well as shipwrecks on Quarantine Island. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn about and observe the diverse wildlife and rich history of the area.

Here are a few more things you should know: we operate daily, as long as we have a minimum of four adults. Our boat features a bathroom onboard, a heated cabin, and a small group setting of approximately 14 people. If you're a local, don't forget to ask about our special discount for New Zealand residents. And to get a better idea of what to expect, check out our reviews on Trip Advisor.

You can find us at either 837 Portobello Road in Portobello, Otago Peninsula, or 39 Peninsula Beach Road in Port Chalmers, Dunedin. If you have any questions or inquiries, please visit our website, where we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for your convenience.

Don't just take our word for it - discover why people are raving about our tours, using phrases like "Absolutely Fabulous Wildlife Tour" and "First-class experience." Come and meet Rachel McGregor, our dedicated skipper and wildlife tour operator, and embark on an adventure you'll never forget.