Wonderful trip, with a fantastic crew - What can we say about our afternoon cruise out of Akaroa, other than breathtaking. From the moment we boarded with our skippers Tony and Mafi, we couldn’t have wished for better. A smaller boat than some of the neighbouring cruises made for a more personable experience, with our hosts taking a real interest in their guests, sharing their experience and expertise as we cruised around, scanning the clear calm waters for penguins, dolphins and seals, all of which put in an appearance. The smaller boat allowed us to access some intimate bays, wonder at some of the rock formations, and even check out Tony’s crayfish pots. Tony and Mafi’s philosophy is one of respect for the nature we are privileged to encounter and as such always let the dolphins come to you, and come they did, a beautiful site, equalled only by sharing their experience waters with an amazing seal nursery on our return trip, words do not do this justice. Cannot recommended Coast Up Close enough, so do not hesitate booking their trip, it is 2.5 hours of pure joy.

Highly Recommended - Tony, the captain, is very knowledgeable about the coast and the history of the area. His concern for the ocean life is obvious. He went above and beyond to accommodate us. Both he and Marty took a personal interest in each of the passengers. We enjoyed seeing dolphins, seals, various birds, and spectacular rock formations. We highly recommend that you book Coast Up Close.

We learnt and saw so much on this fabulous afternoon cruise - We enjoyed a fabulous afternoon with Tony and Mafi. The knowledge Tony imparted really made the cruise - we learnt and saw so much!

Excellent experience! 100% recommend. - Tony and Mafi were excellent hosts for an amazing tour. Saw dolphins, blue penguins, seals, barracuda, an albatross, and many other sea birds. Loved the historical data, the total respect for the wildlife and the the intimate feel of the tour. Not hard to tell they do it for the love of the area, not the money. 100% recommend. You will love it.

Great trip and saw loads of dolphins and other wildlife. Very comfortable boat. - Really enjoyed it. Very modern and comfortable boat with good seating inside and outside. Drinks are served for those wanting one by very friendly crew. The dolphin dog, Albie, was a huge bonus. So cute! Saw lots of Hector dolphins and other wildlife. Very informative captain. Very worthwhile and recommended.

Tony and Mafi are great... - Tony and Mafi are great hosts. Super friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable... and great dolphin spotters!! A lovely way to see one of New Zealand's best places.

Best Tour in Akaroa - Great tour, strongly recommended if you appreciate local Akaroa guides with a huge knowhow of wildlife. Extremly friendly guides, family business, rather small group on the boat.

Trip with grandchild - Loved being and seeing the dolphins and the seals up close. Also great seeing a Sea Lion. The staff were very nice and informative.

Excellent trip - We had a great time. Tony is salt of the earth. He showed great respect to the local wildlife. He was excellent with all the people on board. Taking time to speak with everyone, sharing his knowledge of the local scenery/wildlife. He was particularly good with my young niece's, letting them 'skipper' the ship. They loved the whole experience.

Trip canceled - It was canceled. We never went. Don’t charge us!!! Don’t you monitor the trips you arrange? Who’s minding the store