Sea Kayaking Lyttleton Harbour & Quail Island

South Island

Adventure By Nature

from

NZ$399

per adult

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Kayaker paddling past waterfront baches near Diamond Harbour

Experiences

Kayak & Canoe Tours

Day Tours

Shore Excursions

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch or Lyttelton

Locations: Christchurch, Lyttelton

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 8 hours

Difficulty: 2

Minimum Age: 8

Details

Sea Kayaking Adventure on Lyttelton Harbour

Your day begins with a short drive from Christchurch through the Lyttelton Tunnel before arriving at the harbour, framed by the volcanic peaks of Banks Peninsula. After gearing up at Cass or Charteris Bay, your guide will cover the basics of paddling and steering before leading the group onto the water. The calm harbour is perfect for exploring secret coves, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches known mostly to locals.

From the sheltered shoreline, the route heads towards Quail Island, the largest of the harbour’s islands and a place rich in history. Along the way, you’ll paddle past the remains of three steamships at the ship’s graveyard, before landing at Home Bay. Here, you’ll pause for lunch on the beach and enjoy views across the harbour to Mount Bradley and Charteris Bay.

Exploring Quail Island and the Return Paddle

After lunch, you’ll have time to explore Quail Island on foot or simply relax on the beach. Once a farm, a quarantine station, and a training site for Antarctic expeditions, the island is now a peaceful reserve with fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered. It’s a chance to walk its tracks, learn about its past, or enjoy its natural beauty at your own pace.

The afternoon paddle takes you beneath towering cliffs at the eastern end of the island before crossing back to shore. With the backdrop of volcanic peaks and sparkling water, the return to Cass or Charteris Bay is as scenic as the journey out. At the end of the day, your guide will drop you back at your Christchurch accommodation or the central meeting point, wrapping up a memorable day on the water.

Smiling older couple in kayaking gear during Lyttelton tour

ellow sea kayak with gear on sandy beach in New Zealand

Couple standing by tandem kayak on Quail Island beach with turquoise water behind

Kayaking group receiving safety briefing beside Lyttelton Harbour

Group of kayakers on Lyttelton Harbour heading toward Quail Island

Scenic view of Lyttelton Harbour and Quail Island from hillside

Group of kayakers posing on rocks near Quail Island, Lyttelton Harbour

Two people kayaking near Quail Island, one taking a photo

Kayakers paddling through historic shipwreck remains near Quail Island

HIGHLIGHTS

Kayak in an ancient volcanic harbour at Lyttelton
Explore Quail Island’s intriguing history and beautiful landscapes
Discover hidden bays and shipwrecks
Navigate through stunning sea caves
Capture panoramic views from Dyres Pass summit
Enjoy the personalised attention of a local guide on a small-group tour
Convenient transport to and from Christchurch

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Full-day guided sea kayaking tour
Morning tea, picnic lunch, and afternoon tea provided
All kayaking equipment, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and safety briefing
Round-trip transport from central Christchurch

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Tour duration: ~9:00 AM to 4:30-5:00 PM
Hotel pick-up within 3.5 km of Christchurch city centre, Cathedral Square, Zeroes Cafe (with free parking), and Lyttelton Port for shore excursions
No prior kayaking experience necessary
Min group size: 2 | Maximum: 8
Tour itinerary is weather-dependent and may be adjusted based on the group's abilities and local conditions

Age Information

Adults: 13 years and over
Child: 8-12 years
Minimum Age: 8 years

Cancellations & Refunds

More than 48 hours before departure: Full refund**
Between 24 and 48 hours: 50% refund
Less than 24 hours: No refund
No shows: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Morning – Kayaking Lyttelton Harbour
Kick off your day with an unforgettable kayaking experience in the scenic Lyttelton Harbour! Meet your guide in Lyttelton before a short drive to either Cass Bay or Charteris Bay, where your adventure begins. After gearing up with kayaking equipment and a safety briefing, you’ll learn basic paddling techniques and tips to ensure a smooth journey on the water.

Glide across the calm harbour waters, discovering hidden bays, rugged sea cliffs, and local wildlife along the way. Your guide will share insights into the area’s natural beauty and teach you how to navigate your kayak with ease. Paddle towards Quail Island, a fascinating destination steeped in history—it was once home to a leper colony and served as a training site for Antarctic expeditions. Now a tranquil nature reserve, the island is being restored with native trees. Depending on the tide, you may also explore sea caves and pass by a ship’s graveyard for an extra touch of adventure.

Afternoon – Discover Quail Island
After a morning of paddling, land on one of Quail Island’s serene beaches and enjoy a laid-back picnic lunch surrounded by stunning views. Spend the afternoon at your leisure: wander the island’s walking trails, relax by the water, or venture out for more kayaking with your guide. Take time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and natural charm of this unique location.

As the day winds down, paddle back to your starting point and pack up the kayaks. Back in Lyttelton, enjoy a light meal with the group before saying goodbye to this remarkable spot. Your guide will ensure you return with cherished memories of an extraordinary day exploring Lyttelton Harbour.

Note: This tour is weather-dependent, and your guide may adjust the itinerary to suit local conditions and group preferences. If Quail Island isn’t accessible, alternative routes will be offered to guarantee a fantastic experience.