Join us then on one of our explorations of the unique coastal scenery and wildlife of Banks Peninsula. We specialise in adventures for small numbers (8 passengers max), with friendly, personal attention and conversational commentary providing an unforgettable experience... not just another tour. Our trips pass historic sites of national significance and you will see native flora and fauna... whatever finds us out there in their wild and natural habitats. Southern Wanderer Scenic Cruises is a local family owned-and-operated business. We have lived in Akaroa for over 40 years and are dedicated to sharing our favourite places with you, knowledge and stories about this special place that we call home. We are also available for private charters for small groups of up to 8 family, friends or colleagues, with flexible departure times, trip durations and itineraries. Please contact us to enquire about options and charges... in many cases about the same as you wouldd pay to go on a crowded public cruise with one of the larger tour companies. Of course the weather and sea conditions will also influence where we go and what we see... every day is different. We reserve the right to cancel a tour at any time, due to weather and sea conditions or insufficient numbers booked. We will refund in full if we cancel a tour for any reason. No children under 15 years of age on scheduled cruises or under 5 years of age on private trips. Akaroa is a small seaside settlement, 80 kilometres by road from Christchurch. The Maori name translates as 'long bay' and refers to the harbour, in the crater of an extinct volcano that has been flooded by the sea. The township was founded in 1840 as the only attempt by the French to colonise New Zealand.