Paddle through a historic ship graveyard

Our customers admiring the island's view

Free cancellation: Get a full refund of ticket price up to 48 hours in advance

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Sea Kayaking, Lyttelton Harbour & Quail Island- Start/finish in Christchurch

Sea Kayaking tour of Lyttelton Harbour- Explore secret bays, sunken ships, and sea caves around Lyttelton Harbour and Quail Island on this small-group sea kayaking tour.

From: NZ$479.00

Per Person

8 Hours 30 Mins

Live Availability with Instant Confirmation

Highlights

Sea kayaking in an extinct volcano (Lyttleton Harbour)
Visit Quail Island
Explore the quail Island sea caves
Transport from Christchurch./ Hotle Pick-up avilable
Paddle through a ships graveyard

Full Description

Morning – Lyttelton Harbour
Starting in Christchurch city centre, it’s a 30-45-minute drive to Cass or Charteris Bay. Stopping briefly at the top of the Port Hills at Dyre's Pass summit (340 meters) for a photo opportunity overlooking Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour from the lookout before continuing our journey to Lyttelton Harbour, where we launch our sea kayaks. Arriving at the beach, we unload our boats before getting changed into our kayaking gear and lifejackets. Once you are changed and ready to go, your guide will teach you some basic paddle strokes and emergency procedures before leaving the beach. As you begin sea kayaking awa...

Morning – Lyttelton Harbour

Starting in Christchurch city centre, it’s a 30-45-minute drive to Cass or Charteris Bay. Stopping briefly at the top of the Port Hills at Dyre's Pass summit (340 meters) for a photo opportunity overlooking Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour from the lookout before continuing our journey to Lyttelton Harbour, where we launch our sea kayaks. Arriving at the beach, we unload our boats before getting changed into our kayaking gear and lifejackets. Once you are changed and ready to go, your guide will teach you some basic paddle strokes and emergency procedures before leaving the beach. As you begin sea kayaking away from the beach, your guide will teach you how to steer your boat and paddle efficiently. Heading out towards the Island, there are plenty of bays and sea cliffs and wildlife to explore. Quail Island, the largest of the three islands in the harbour, is rich in local history; the Island was farmed, used as a leper colony and also for Antarctic expedition training. These days, the island is a recreational reserve and is slowly being replanted with native trees. If the tides allow, we’ll paddle past a ship’s graveyard and explore the far side of the island, including the sea caves at the far end.

Afternoon- Explore Quail Island

Stopping at one of the many small beaches, it’s time for our picnic lunch. After lunch, you can decide how to spend the remainder of the afternoon; you will have the opportunity to explore the island, relax by the beach or continue exploring the harbour with your guide. At the end of the day, we head back to our starting point. It's time to pack away the sea kayaks, grab a bite to eat, and head back towards Christchurch. Arriving back in Christchurch, you’ll be dropped back at your accommodation or into the city centre.

Please note that this sea kayaking itinerary is weather dependent and your guide may a-l-t-e-r the plan to match and abilities of the group and the local conditions on the day. In some situations, it may not be possible to visit Quail Island.

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Includes

Gera and equeptment

Transport from Christchurch

Local Guide

Morning Tea & Lunch

Meeting Point

Directly from your hotel – any accommodation within 3.5 km of Christchurch city centre– See on Google Maps

Canterbury Museum meeting location- See on Google maps

Princess Margarate Hospital meeting location (free all-day parking) – See on Google maps

Lyttelton Port meeting location (for shore excursions) – See on Google Maps

The pick up time is 9-9:30 AM and ends at 4:30-5 PM.

Cancellation policy

Full refund if cancelled up to 48 hours before activity starts.

Good weather is required for this experience. If we need to cancel due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.

There is a minimum number of travellers for this experience. If the minimum isn't met and we need to cancel, we will offer a different date/experience or a full refund.

Risk Disclosure

Health and Safety

All participants are required to read and sign a "Risk Disclosure" form at arrival, prior to taking part in any "Adventure Activity" by NZ law.

Please view this form now before booking. No action is required now other than to read it to make sure you are happy to sign at arrival.

View Participant Risks Here

From

NZ$479.00

Per Person

8 Hours 30 Mins

Live Availability with Instant Confirmation

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Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand, 8024

Sea Kayaking Tour: Lyttelton Harbour & Quail Island - from Christchurch

Sea Kayaking Day TourEmbark on an unforgettable sea kayaking adventure in the stunning Lyttelton Harbour, where breathtaking coastal scenery and rich maritime history await you.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it out for the first time, this guided day tour promises a unique experience filled with exploration and stunning landscapes.

Your journey will take you to Quail Island, a historical gem steeped in fascinating stories, where you can pause to soak in the beauty of secluded beaches and engage in leisurely activities. Join us for a day of adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature, leaving you with memories to cherish forever!

Sea Kayaking Highlights:
Go sea kayaking in an extinct volcano (Lyttelton Harbour).Discover secret bays.
Paddle through a ship’s graveyard.
Explore the Quail Island sea caves.
Visit Quail Island.
Local Guide.Small-group tour.
Transport from Christchurch.Sea Kayaking

Itinerary:
Morning – Lyttelton Harbour Kayaking AdventureStart your day with an exciting sea kayaking experience in the breathtaking Lyttelton Harbour! We’ll meet in Lyttelton and take a scenic drive to either Cass Bay or Charteris Bay. Once we arrive at the beach, we’ll get you set up with your kayaking gear and lifejacket. If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry- your guide will show you everything you need, covering basic paddle strokes and essential safety tips, so you’ll feel ready to hit the water.We’ll then paddle out into the harbour’s calm waters where your guide will teach you how to steer your kayak and paddle more precisely. Along the way, we’ll explore hidden bays and dramatic sea cliffs and watch for wildlife in their natural habitat. We’ll head towards Quail Island, the largest of the three islands in the harbour, which has a fascinating history - once home to a leper colony and later used for Antarctic expedition training. Today, it’s a peaceful nature reserve, gradually being replanted with native trees. If the tide’s right, we’ll even paddle past a ship’s graveyard and check out sea caves on the island’s far side!

Afternoon – Explore Quail IslandAfter a morning on the water, we’ll stop at one of Quail Island’s picturesque beaches to enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch. The afternoon is yours to spend as you please - explore the island’s walking trails, unwind on the beach, or hop back in the kayaks for more exploration with your guide. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
When the day ends, we’ll paddle back to our starting point, pack up the kayaks, and head back to Lyttelton. We’ll grab a bite to eat together before dropping you back at the port, your accommodation or the central city, leaving you with memories of a fantastic day in one of New Zealand’s most stunning spots.
Please note: This tour is weather-dependent, and your guide will adjust the plan based on local conditions and the group’s abilities. On occasion, a visit to Quail Island might not be possible, but no matter what, we’ll ensure you have a memorable experience!

Duration: 8 Hours 30 Mins

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You can cancel for free up to 48 hours before the day of the experience, local time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are life jackets mandatory on the tour?

Yes, life jackets are mandatory for all participants.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. The tour is designed to be beginner-friendly.

What should I wear for the sea kayaking tour?

Its recommended to wear comfortable clothing that you dont mind getting wet. A swimsuit or quick-dry clothing is ideal. Additionally, bringing a light jacket or windbreaker is advisable, as weather conditions can change.

What happens in case of bad weather or rough sea conditions?

The trip is weather-dependent. If sea or weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be modified, rescheduled, or canceled, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

What are the pickup and drop-off times?

Pickup is between 9:00–9:30 AM, and the tour ends between 4:00–4:30 PM.

Is there a minimum number of travelers required, and what happens if it isn’t met?

Yes, a minimum number of travelers is required. If the minimum isn’t met and we need to cancel, we will offer a different date, an alternative experience, or a full refund.

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer a full refund if cancelled up to 48 hours before the activity starts.

Sea Kayaking, Lyttelton Harbour & Quail Island- Start/finish in Christchurch

From: NZ$479.00

Highlights

Sea kayaking in an extinct volcano (Lyttleton Harbour)

Visit Quail Island

Explore the quail Island sea caves

Transport from Christchurch./ Hotle Pick-up avilable

Paddle through a ships graveyard

Full Description

Includes

Health and Safety

NZ$479.00

Sea Kayaking Tour: Lyttelton Harbour & Quail Island - from Christchurch

Book Your Experience

Traveler Details

Payment Details

NZ Bank Account (Direct Debit)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are life jackets mandatory on the tour?

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

What should I wear for the sea kayaking tour?

What happens in case of bad weather or rough sea conditions?

What are the pickup and drop-off times?

Is there a minimum number of travelers required, and what happens if it isn’t met?

What is your cancellation policy?

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