Private Akaroa Guided Kayak Trip

Private Akaroa Guided Kayak Tour

Visit fragile, pristine, natural areas. Enjoy exploring this marine reserve in a low-impact and environmentally responsible way.

A Kayaking Adventure Through History and Nature

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Akaroa, a charming French settlement nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Banks Peninsula. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the high summit route, where awe-inspiring vistas of farmlands, Akaroa Harbour, the Canterbury Plains, and the distant Southern Alps unfold before you.

Enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour adventure, allowing for a more immersive and tailored experience as you explore the wonders of Akaroa.

Sea Kayaking Safari: Explore Akaroa's Pristine Waters

The heart of this experience lies in an exhilarating Sea Kayaking Safari. Led by your expert guide, you'll paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Akaroa's marine reserve, immersing yourself in a world of tranquility and natural beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful antics of Hector's dolphins, the adorable waddle of white-flippered penguins, the sunbathing fur seals, and the graceful flight of various seabirds. As you navigate the coastline, your guide will regale you with captivating stories about the region's rich Māori history and geological wonders, adding depth and meaning to your adventure.

Charming French Village and Culinary Delights:

Upon returning to dry land, step back in time as you explore the quaint streets of the 175-year-old French village of Akaroa. Delve into the local museum to uncover its fascinating history, browse the art and craft shops for unique treasures, and perhaps even indulge in a wine tasting at one of the picturesque vineyards.

After working up an appetite on your kayaking adventure, treat yourself to a sumptuous late lunch at an award-winning cafe. Savour the flavours of local cuisine while reminiscing about the highlights of your day.

Additional Delights (Time Permitting):

As we bid farewell to Akaroa, there's still more to discover. Time permitting, we'll make stops at the Barry's Bay Cheese Factory, where you can sample delicious artisanal cheeses, and the Little River Art Gallery, showcasing the talents of local artists.

Join us for a day of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences in the picturesque paradise of Akaroa. This kayaking adventure through history and nature is sure to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Tour Inclusions:

Travel by luxury vehicle
Crater rim scenic drive with spectacular views (weather permitting)
Fully guided kayak tour, all equipment provided.
Cafe lunch in Akaroa
Courtesy city hotel pickup and drop-off.
Delicious morning or afternoon tea picnic (weather permitting)
Fully escorted with informative commentary

Departure time: 8:00 – 8.15 am

Return: Approx. 5.00 pm.

Tour Code: PRI AK04

This is a Private Tour. Your party will have exclusive use of a luxury SUV, along with a dedicated Canterbury Trails Guide for the day.

A Kayaking Adventure Through History and Nature.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Akaroa, a charming French settlement nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Banks Peninsula. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the high summit route, where awe-inspiring vistas of farmlands, Akaroa Harbour, the Canterbury Plains, and the distant Southern Alps unfold before you.

Enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour adventure, allowing for a more immersive and tailored experience as you explore the wonders of Akaroa.

Person in a kayak holding a shell with mountains and water in the background

People sitting on a beach with boats and sailboats in the water, surrounded by green hills.

Additional Delights

As we bid farewell to Akaroa, there's still more to discover. Time permitting, we'll make stops at the Barry's Bay Cheese Factory, where you can sample delicious artisanal cheeses, and the Little River Art Gallery, showcasing the talents of local artists.

Join us for a day of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences in the picturesque paradise of Akaroa. This kayaking adventure through history and nature is sure to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Tour Inclusions:

Travel by luxury vehicle
Exclusive Private Tour.
Crater rim scenic drive with spectacular views (weather permitting)
Fully guided kayak tour, all equipment provided.
Cafe lunch in Akaroa
Courtesy city hotel pickup and drop-off.
Delicious morning or afternoon tea picnic (weather permitting)
Fully escorted with informative commentary

Departure time: 8:00 – 8.15 am

Return: Approx. 5.00 pm.

Tour Code: PRI AK04

Good to know

Suits Guests with reasonable fitness who would enjoy paddling Akaroa Harbour with a guide, looking out for Hector's dolphins, white-flippered penguins and fur seals. Away from the water, the walking is gentle.

Included Your own vehicle and driver-guide for the day, pickup and drop-off at your Christchurch accommodation, a guided sea kayak trip with all the equipment, lunch at a café in Akaroa and a picnic morning or afternoon tea. Card payments carry a 3% fee, and a public holiday surcharge of NZ$70 per person applies on New Zealand public holidays (NZ$75 from Good Friday, 26 March 2027).

Pickup and times We collect you from your Christchurch accommodation at about 8:00 am, at a time we confirm with you before the day, and you are back at about 5:00 pm. As a private tour, it runs on the date you choose.

Group Private. Your party travels alone, in a luxury vehicle with your own driver-guide. On the water, a local kayak guide leads the paddle.

Children Welcome. Children aged 2 to 12 travel at half the adult price, and under-twos travel free. We supply every car seat free: a rear-facing capsule for babies, a harness seat for toddlers and a booster for older children. The kayak operator sets its own minimum age for paddlers, so tell us your children's ages when you enquire and we will check.

Travelling alone The tour is private, so it runs for a single traveller too.

Cancellation Cancel more than 7 days before the tour and there is no fee. From 7 days to 48 hours before, the fee is 50%, and within 48 hours the tour is non-refundable. The full terms are in our Terms of Service.

Bring Layers for changeable weather, with a warm top and a rain jacket, clothes you don't mind getting splashed and a change of clothes, comfortable shoes with good grip, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle.