For safety reasons a basic understanding of English is mandatory for all passengers on our cruises.
No previous sailing experience is required
How do I book a cruise?
We are currently only offering cruises for our guests at the Akaroa Coastal Retreat. If you are interested in a cruise, please enquire when booking accommodation with us.
Where do we meet?
Please make sure to arrive at the meeting place, at the near end of the blue buildings on the Akaroa main wharf, at least 15 minutes prior to departure time. If you cannot find us please phone 027 4190592.
If another pickup location is used we will contact you.
What do we need to bring?
We recommend that all our guests bring suitable clothing and sun protection to cover all weather conditions, including sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, warm clothes, waterproof jacket, comfortable footware (not sandals/jandals or high heels).
Please ensure that personal medicines, inhalers, EpiPens etc. are brought with you. There is room in our cabin to keep personal items dry so it is fine to bring cameras and phones etc.
We provide lifejackets.
Is there a toilet onboard the boat?
Yes, our vessel Harbour Sail has a marine toilet onboard, however we recommend that guests use the public toilets before boarding. These toilets are situated close to the Akaroa Main Wharf... at the south end of Brittomart Reserve, just before crossing the small bridge when walking towards the Lighthouse from the wharf.
Are reservations essential?
We are not currently running scheduled cruises and will only be going out when our accommodation guests make a reservation directly with us.
Can my children go?
We do not take children under the age of 15 unless by prior arrangement.
What is our cancellation policy?
If any trip you have booked directly with us is cancelled by us for any reason we will refund your payment in full.
If you cancel a booking for a cruise more than 24 hours before the planned departure time we will refund your payment in full. Payments for bookings for cruises that are cancelled within 24 hours of the planned departure time, including no-shows, will not be refunded.