Larnach Castle Tour & Wildlife Cruise in Dunedin

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Highlights

Full day Castle to Cruise tour in Dunedin
Guided tour of Larnach Castle - NZ's only castle!
1 hour wildlife cruise to Taiaroa Head
Chance encounters with albatross, seals, penguins & more

Description

Embark on a fascinating day tour in Dunedin on the Castle to Cruise Tour with Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours. This immersive adventure includes a visit to Larnarch Castle - New Zealand's only castle! - as well as a 1 hour wildlife cruise of Otago Harbour. Perfect for history buffs and wildlife lovers visiting Dunedin!

The Castle to Cruise Tour begins in Dunedin with a scenic bus ride along the High Road to the iconic Larnach Castle, a historic gem nestled at the heart of the Otago Peninsula. Witness the grandeur of a castle built in 1871, its exterior crafted by two hundred workers over three years, while the interiors were meticulously perfected by European artisans for over a decade.

Step back in time as you explore lavishly adorned rooms filled with original artworks, clothing, and furniture. Delve into the captivating stories of scandal and tragedy surrounding its original owner, William Larnach. The spiral staircase leads to the rooftop tower, offering panoramic 360 degree views of the Otago Peninsula and the castle's exquisite gardens, internationally acclaimed for their beauty.

After a guided tour of Larnarch Castle, the scenic bus journey continues to Wellers Rock Wharf, where a one-hour Wildlife Cruise awaits. Journey out to Taiaroa Head, home to the world's only mainland nesting site of royal albatross. Witness these magnificent birds glide from the ocean to their hillside nests and sail beneath a historic lighthouse perched atop volcanic cliffs.

Venture further out to sea to spot rare ocean birds, albatross species, cormorants, and petrels, as well as occasional sightings of blue penguins, dolphins, and sea lions. This Dunedin peninsula tour concludes with a leisurely drive back to the city along the Low Road in summer months. In the winter months, your tour concludes with a cruise back to central Dunedin along the Otago Harbour.

The Castle to Cruise Tour is the perfect combination of history, natural beauty, and wildlife, all waiting to be found in Dunedin!

Trip Includes

Scenic bus tour over high road to Larnach Castle
1 hour guided tour of Larnach Castle
Free time to explore Larnach Castle gardens & cafe
1 hour Wildlife Cruise
Return scenic bus tour via the Low Road (in summer only)
Return Otago Harbour Cruise (in winter only)
Informative commentaries, fact sheets & binoculars
Dunedin city accommodation transfers on request

Duration

Allow 7 hours

Departures

10:30am daily in summer (returns by 3:30pm)
11:30am on Saturday, Sunday & Wednesday only in winter (returns by 5:00pm)
Departs from the Monarch Wildlife Office on Fryatt Street, central Dunedin
Operates all year

Other Information

Child rates apply (5-14yrs)
Infants 0-4yrs travel free of charge
Food is not included in the tour. You are welcome to bring your own picnic & drinks or purchase something light from the Balloroom Cafe at Larnach Castle
This tour involves walking up several flights of stairs to access the different floors of the castle. We recommend guests have a medium level of fitness.
Please bring sturdy footwear that you are comfortable walking in, plus warm layers, a waterproof jacket and a camera!
The wildlife cruise operates in a relatively sheltered, but if you are concerned about seasickness we recommend taking a motion sickness tablet one hour prior to travel
Pressure point wristbands are available to purchase on the wildlife cruise