Animal Encounter Dunedin

Get a taste of what Dunedin has to offer and learn about Dunedin’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
​ This tour includes everything you would find on our Taste of Dunedin tour but with the addition of an one-hour wildlife cruise with Monarch Cruises. You'll travel near the Otago Harbour entrance to the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. These huge birds soar in from sea, flying past a historic lighthouse as they return to their hillside nests.​ But it's not just the Northern Royal Albatross that we hope to see. As the Monarch manoeuvre close to rocky outcrops we're looking out for the local fur seal population. The cruise heads a short way out to sea where other albatross and seabird species are known to visit, and if we're lucky maybe see the odd blue penguin, sea lion and dolphin!

The crew will provide a full commentary during your cruise about the local history, scenery and wildlife spotted along the way. Don't be put off by cool & windy weather. These are often the best conditions for wildlife viewing. Especially when it comes to albatross, they love a brisk southerly wind. Binoculars and warm jackets are provided during your cruise.​


Book this tour now or buy a gift card if you want to choose a date later. Just use the handy calendar on this page.

Get a taste of what Dunedin has to offer and learn about Dunedin’s rich cultural and natural heritage. ​ This tour includes everything you would find on our Taste of Dunedin tour but with the addition of an Albatross Classic tour at the Royal Albatross Colony at Taiaroa Head and Monarch Cruises. ​This fully guided wildlife experience at the iconic Royal Albatross centre is 60 minutes and includes a short film presentation on the breeding cycle of these magnificent birds, and a short walk up the hill to view albatross and other wildlife from the exclusive glassed observatory. A mobility scooter is available at the Albatross centre for those who need assistance climbing the hill. ​


This tour also includes an one hour Wildlife Cruise with Monarch Cruises. You'll travel near the Otago Harbour entrance to the world's only mainland colony of royal albatross. These huge birds soar in from sea, flying past a historic lighthouse as they return to their hillside nests. But it's not just the Northern Royal Albatross that we hope to see. As the Monarch manoeuvre close to rocky outcrops we're looking out for the local fur seal population. The cruise heads a short way out to sea where other albatross and seabird species are known to visit, and if we're lucky maybe see the odd blue penguin, sea lion and dolphin!
The crew will provide a full commentary during your cruise about the local history, scenery and wildlife spotted along the way. Don't be put off by cool & windy weather. These are often the best conditions for wildlife viewing. Especially when it comes to albatross, they love a brisk southerly wind. Binoculars and warm jackets are provided during your cruise.