New Zealand · BOAT TOURS IN CHRISTCHURCH
The 10 best boat tours in Christchurch you can book right now, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason; start there.
Coast Up Close in Akaroa: a 2.5-hour small-boat cruise with Captain Tony, dolphins, penguins, and volcanic coastline views.
“We loved it thank you. Super cruisey and loads of local knowledge shared with us. Really enjoyed the whole experiences thanks to the hosts”
Lyttelton shore day with a working sheep farm, sheep dog herding, shearing demo, and Christchurch rebuild sights, plus city views and tea.
“Excellent driver/guide very knowledgeable. Very informative farm visit, gracious hosts, lovely snacks we’ll set up location. Drive to and from farm very scenic.”
Christchurch to Hanmer Springs for a Waiau Gorge jet-boat ride, included lunch, and thermal pool time with hotel pickup and drop-off.
“Jetboating was fun, but I would have loved to bungi jump - not sure if that was also an option.”
Race or cruise on a purpose-built blokart track in Christchurch, powered by the Canterbury winds, with safety gear, coaching, and tandems.
“The staff were extremely friendly, help and supportive of us older types😃. Had a great time, brilliant activity just so much fun . Great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Thanks so much NZ has been absolutely brilliant”
Scenic Christchurch to Akaroa day trip via Governors Bay, Gebbies Pass, and Te Waihora, plus optional harbour cruise for Hector’s dolphins.
“Despite some initial communication misunderstandings regarding the tour starting time, our driver Raj was really friendly, and we had an amazing time in Akaroa and along the way. Overall I think the tour deserves a 5 star review.”
Ride a 30-minute jet boat in Arthur’s Pass country, then end with the TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch.
“I won't comment too much on Arthur's Pass itself - if you've researched anything on Christchurch you will know that it's an essential place to visit. Instead I will comment on specifically the tour guide for this tour, which was fantastic. Joseph, Read more”
Thrilling Amuri Jet Hanmer Springs ride through Waiau Gorge, including the Hamilton 360 spin, life jacket safety, and 1-hour river fun.
“Great fun, fast driving, some good adrenaline, great views ans longer than you think :)”
Cruise-day hop on, hop off wine and beer loop through Waipara. Flexible stops, great driver help, and North Canterbury flavor.
“Personalized tour, JJ is great and certainly knows so much.. love her style of sharing info about area. Warren, the driver was also great although we wished he would have spoken a bit more as we drove to wineries.”
Christchurch Heli-Jet combines a scenic helicopter flight with a fast jet boat on the Waimakariri River, in about 90 minutes.
“Felt like a rockstar getting choppered into the boats 😂 Beautiful seeing Christchurch from the sky The river is so clear and beautiful Would definitely do it again ❤️”
Small-group day trip from Christchurch to Akaroa, with Banks Peninsula viewpoints, lunch and tea, and optional Hector’s dolphin harbour cruise.
“Wonderful, relaxed day traveling to Akaroa with several stops along the way. Our guide, Lachie (rhymes with hockey) was calm, knowledgeable, and friendly. We loved the morning tea stop. He shared information about the Māori and easily fielded our general geopolitical questions. Great viewpoints.”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
