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south island cruising day tours albatross encounter
It is the vast offshore canyons, with their nutrient rich waters, which is responsible for the variety of sea-life off Kaikoura. Kaikoura boasts the greatest variety of ocean birds (pelagics), within a short distance, than anywhere in New Zealand, maybe even the world. Species include: great Albatross (The Wanderings & Royals), smaller Albatross (known as Mollymawks in New Zealand), the Shy (three species), Black-browed (two species), the Salvin’s the Buller’s. Also see giant Petrels, and smaller Petrels, and Shearwater. Other species may be sighted – including two species of skua, the blue penguin; and the gulls, three species. highlights inclusions times additional information instant quote
 dolphin encounter
The Dolphin Encounter tour offers the opportunity to swim with or watch the energised dusky dolphins which are found in large numbers along the Kaikoura Coast. Tours offer limited seats for snorkelling - just 13 are available per tour. The restriction is due to permits that are issued to us by the department of Conservation which enable us to operate a commercial swim with dolphins. Advance bookings for swimming are essential. Watching the dolphins has no capacity limits. The tour comprises clients checking in and those swimming being fitted for snorkelling gear. A full briefing takes place and then clients are transported by coach to the vessels departure point, the South Bay Marina. The vessels then leave and search out the dolphin pod(s). Once located, the swimming commences. The dolphins can move quite quickly so it is possible that swimmers may be picked up and taken to where the dolphins have moved to, a number of times on the tour. At the conclusion of the swim a commentary is given which covers information on why the dolphins are so plentiful along the coastline, local geology, aspects of marine biology of the species, conservation and environmental issues, etc. A photo opportunity is included at this point. Hot chocolate and cookies are served. The vessels then return to the marina and clients are transported back to the operating base.
dolphin swimmer: The dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round, making Kaikoura a unique place in the world where wild dolphins can be encountered every day, weather permitting. It is this fact that sets our operation apart; our success rate of swimming with dolphins is second to none. Maximum of 13 swimmers allowed per tour. highlights inclusions times additional information instant quote
milford sound scenic cruise
Wet or fine the magic of Milford Sound will enthral you. Annually, Milford Sound receives between 5 to 9 metres of rain and you will see waterfalls thunder down the sheer cliffs of the Fiord. Carved over time by glaciers the deepest part of the Fiord is 400 metres. Dale Point denotes the entrance to the Sound. The actual length of the Fiord is 16km from St Annes Point. With so many photo opportunities that abound, taking a camera on your Red Boat Cruise is a must. Milford Sound not only boasts spectacular scenery, it also teems with beautiful wildlife including dolphins, seals and the Fiordland Crested penguin (one of the worlds rarest penguins). Milford Sound Red Boat Cruises depart daily from the Milford Wharf Visitor Centre. Your cruise will travel down the south side of the Fiord, out to the Tasman Sea and return up the north side, stopping off at all points of interest along the way. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery with a full commentary on the natural history of the Sound. There's also a wide selection of fine food available on board: from snacks to full international buffet, and an ever ready bar service. highlights times additional information instant quote
milford sound scenic cruise & observatory
The beauty of Fiordland, situated on the south west of New Zealand’s South Island is well known. It is a vast area of sheer mountain ranges, glaciated valleys, crystal clear lakes, turbulent rivers, pristine primitive rain forest and towering waterfalls; truly nature at its best. The natural values of the region have long been recognised with the formation of the Fiordland National Park and more recently World Heritage Area status. What is not so widely known, is that the stunning beauty above the water is also reproduced beneath the water. Milford Sound Red Boat Cruises also offer a Scenic Cruise and Observatory option where you will descend 10.4 metres below the surface to marvel at spectacular marine life. Located in Harrison Cove, you will view anemones, sponges, fish and rare red and black coral in their natural habitat. Situated in the middle of the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, the Milford Deep Underwater Observatory lets everyone see in comfort and ease this special world that previously has been the exclusive realm of divers. The Underwater Observatory is located within the picturesque Harrison Cove, here you'll see the precious black coral and other brilliantly coloured corals. There are 11-legged sea stars, delicately shaped anemones and intriguing snakestars wrapped around the black corals. Spotted and banded perch and triplefins swim among tube worms, while sponges and underwater fauna grow outside the Observatory windows. This remarkable environment has generated much interest. It is the home of the Brachiopod, a shellfish which exists in much the same form as they did 600 million years ago, and such oddities as the scarlet wrasse an amazing fish that changes its sex when needed! Harrison Cove, the site of the Observatory, has now been made into the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, protecting all underwater marine life. highlights times additional information instant quote
milford sound coach & cruise (1 day)
Cruise the full length of Milford Sound on board one of real journey’s spacious, modern vessels - Milford Sovereign, Milford Monarch or Milford Haven - offering excellent viewing opportunities. Keep a look-out for seals basking on the rocks as you cruise magnificent Milford Sound. highlights inclusions times additional information instant quote
milford sound fly & cruise
Following your transfer from Queenstown accommodation to the Airport, you will fly to Milford Sound. Marvel at the panoramic views of spectacular alpine scenery, lush rainforest, and finally Milford Sound. Once on the ground at Milford Airport, visitors are transferred by coach to the Real Journeys Visitors Centre to board the cruising vessel for the Milford Sound cruise to the Tasman Sea. The vessel provides excellent viewing and there is plenty of time available to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. On returning to the Milford Wharf, visitors are taken by transfer coach to Milford Airport for the return sightseeing flight to Queenstown with Milford Sound Flightseeing Ltd. You are then transferred back to your Queenstown accommodation. highlights inclusions times additional information instant quote
milford mariner overnight cruise
On boarding a Real Journeys coach in Queenstown, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through rolling countryside of Te Anau. Stopping in Te Anau for a short break provides the opportunity for lunch to be purchased (own cost) before the excursion continues, photo stops along the way, until you reach Milford Sound to board the Milford Mariner for the overnight cruise. The Milford Mariner offers you a very special experience. Designed along the lines of a traditional New Zealand coastal trading scow to reflect Fiordland’s heritage, the Milford Mariner caters for visitors who enjoy comfort, combined with activity. It has a spacious dining saloon, observation lounge and large open deck areas for viewing the scenery of Milford Sound. The Milford Mariner cruises the length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The vessel explores in a leisurely way, with plenty of time to view waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife with experienced nature guides on board. The vessel anchors overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove. Activities include kayaking and exploring the shoreline on the tender craft. The overnight cruise includes a delicious four course buffet evening meal and hearty cooked breakfast. Beverages are sold at the licensed, on board bar. The next morning following breakfast, there is further cruising before returning to Milford Wharf – before returning back to Queenstown by coach. highlights inclusions times additional information
te anau glow worm caves
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tss earnslaw cruise
The original steam engines can be seen in operation from the open viewing area. During the cruise the ship’s pianist entertains with a variety of old favourites and visitors are encouraged to join in the sing-a-long around the piano. Tea, coffee and delicious café style food can be purchased on board from the Promenade Café/Bar. Most food items are baked daily in the TSS Earnslaw galley. times additional information instant quote
whale watch cruise
A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky Dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales (June/July), Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. Kaikoura often hosts the world's largest dolphin - the Orca (summer months) - and is home to the world's smallest and rarest - the Hector's. Kaikoura also attracts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand including 13 species of Albatross, 14 varieties of Petrels and 7 types of Shearwater. If your Whale Watch Kaikoura tour does not see a whale we will refund 80 percent of your fare.
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destinations
�· gold coast
Albatross Encounter with Ocean Wings was established in 1998. Our tours take visitors out by boat into the waters off the Kaikoura Coast. Ocean Wings® began operations early in 1998 and is run by the established dolphin watching and swimming organisation in Kaikoura, Dolphin Encounter®.
sightings of various seabirds
Kaikoura is an easy drive 2.5 hours north of Christchurch. There are numerous transport options available from Christchurch including a daily train service, coaches, shuttles or hire cars. Kaikoura is a small coastal village that has an incredible vista; a large mountain range (the Seaward Kaikoura’s) provides a dramatic backdrop to the town centre located on the east side of a small peninsula extending out into the Pacific Ocean. This stunning view alone captivates those who visit Kaikoura.
dolphin spectator: The opportunity to go out and watch the dusky dolphins from our boats, gives visitors wonderful views of these spectacular and acrobatic dolphins. As well as this, there is the opportunity to witness any interaction between the dolphins and swimmers, who are also on the same boat. Swimming occurs in the open ocean so it is advisable for clients who choose this option to have some previous snorkelling experience.
Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is a Fiord of spectacular beauty and natural grandeur...it is a deep, icy blue waterway flowing into the Tasman Sea and is part of the majestic Fiordland National Park. 
View a rich marine ecosystem unparalleled anywhere else in the world…
Milford Sound is simply stunning. Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you. Grand, brooding, serene and wild – Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length – and wonder. Luxuriant rainforest clings to sheer rock walls washed with waterfalls. In the foreground stands Mitre Peak, a majestic presence dominating the skyline.
Milford Sound Fly/Scenic Cruise appeals to those wanting to enjoy the dramatic scenery of Milford Sound in style. Hanging valleys, alpine lakes and cloud-piercing summits hidden from the road are just some of the reasons why flying between Queenstown and Milford is an excursion of a lifetime!
An overnight cruise amidst spectacular Milford Sound, is a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience!
Your Te Anau Glowworm Cave adventure begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the western side of the lake. Upon arrival there is time to view informative displays at Cavern House before our friendly guides invite you to accompany them underground in small groups. As you explore by path and small boat, your senses will be overwhelmed. Observe how the rushing water sculpts the rock formations, before gliding through silent darkness to the glowworm grotto. The delicate incandescence of thousands of tiny glowworms is a magical sight.
Step aboard – watch the stokers fuelling the fireboxes and hear the sound of the steam engines working as the TSS Earnslaw takes you on a nostalgic cruise of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Be transported in style on one of our regular departures to Walter Peak High Country Farm. On board the captain provides an interesting commentary as visitors enjoy spectacular views of Cecil and Walter Peaks and the western shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. 
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