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Fully Certified
Black Cat Cruises
General Information
61 Beach Road, Akaroa 7520
0800 436 574
Opening Times - Check before visiting as might change
Overview
"For over three decades Black Cat Cruises has been recognised nationally and internationally with numerous tourism awards and are recognised as New Zealand’s first true eco-tourism operator. Based on Banks Peninsula, close to Christchurch we operate from both Akaroa and Lyttelton harbour.We were the first to offer cruises from Akaroa and today we offer our Akaroa Nature Cruise and Swimming with the Dolphins in Akaroa. (Some restrictions apply to swimming, please visit www.blackcat.co.nz for more information.) In Lyttelton, we offer the Diamond Harbour Ferry and the Quail Island Ferry."
Notes for Cardholders
For the Akaroa Nature Cruise, Ripapa Island & Quail Island we offer free entry for one support person .
Unfortunately, for the Diamond Harbour Ferry there is no free support person as the service is run on behalf of ECAN and we don't have control over ticketing for this service.
Standing and Queuing
Seating available at both Akaroa and Lyttelton harbour boarding areas.
Level Access
Wheelchair access for boats in both Akaroa and Lyttelton.
Akaroa Nature Cruise: Boat is wheelchair accessible.
Swimming With Dolphins: Swim boat is not wheelchair accessible.
Quail Island: We do not recommend Quail Island for anyone in a wheelchair because the tracks are relatively steep and can get muddy depending on the weather. In addition, the jetty steps are a bit steep for those in a wheelchair.
Ripapa Island is not wheelchair accessible.
Diamond Harbour Ferry: We recommend travelling with a support person. Lyttelton wharf boat access is easily accessible, however the Diamond Harbour Ferry wharf includes steps to access the ferry.
Distances
Both boats have a short ramp so no long distance movement is required.
Urgent Toilet Access
Akaroa: Toilet facilities are available on the Akaroa Nature Cruise but are not wheelchair accessible. Public restrooms with wheelchair accessible toilet are nearby on street. Wheelchair access to toilets is available in Lyttleton harbour.
Disability Assist Dogs
Trained disability and service dogs are welcome on our vessels.
Essential Companions
One support person goes free with a paying cardholder on the Akaroa Nature Cruise, Ripapa Island, and Quail Island vessels.
When booking online you can access your free support person ticket using code HAPAI at checkout, this offer is only available for the Akaroa Nature Cruise, Ripapa Island, and Quail Island vessels. When booking via phone or email simply mention you have a Hapai Card with the +1 icon and remember to keep your card handy when boarding your vessel.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer free support person entry on the Diamond Harbor Ferry or Swimming with Dolphins.
Difficulty Accessing Visual Information
We have live commentary on our Akaroa Nature Cruise.
Difficulty Accessing Audible Information
We provide an information sheet on the Akaroa Nature Cruise.
Hidden Disabilities
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