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Port Chalmers Tours and Activities

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to explore Port Chalmers' historic wharf and its eclectic galleries? Discover the unique charm of this coastal city. Browse local art exhibitions or book a guided boat tour to experience the harbor's beauty.

The best Port Chalmers tour packages

Port Chalmers invites discovery of its charming waterfront and local café culture, alongside iconic sites like the historic wharf and the inviting port area.

Tour image of Albatross, seals, and sea birds-Wildlife Cruise
2 hours
4.83 (181)
Albatross, seals, and sea birds-Wildlife Cruise
$103.29
Tour image of Garden and City tour
5 hours
4.72 (177)
Garden and City tour
$36.45
Tour image of Cruise Dunedin City and Castle Tour
6.5 hours
4.93 (131)
Cruise Dunedin City and Castle Tour
$118.48
Tour image of Iconic Shore Excursion: Dunedin City Highlights Tour
4 hours
4.85 (110)
Iconic Shore Excursion: Dunedin City Highlights Tour
$60.15
Tour image of Iconic Shore Excursion: Iconic Larnach Castle Tour
6 hours
4.93 (84)
Iconic Shore Excursion: Iconic Larnach Castle Tour
$96.6
Tour image of Water Taxi and Shuttle to Larnach Castle
4 hours
4.8 (94)
Water Taxi and Shuttle to Larnach Castle
$100.25
Tour image of Castle, Coast & City Tour - 8 pax max - Castle Entrance Included
5 hours
4.85 (89)
Castle, Coast & City Tour - 8 pax max - Castle Entrance Included
$145.82
Tour image of Dunedin City and Coastal Views 3-Hour Small-Group Guided Tour
3 hours
4.72 (88)
Dunedin City and Coastal Views 3-Hour Small-Group Guided Tour
$96.6
Tour image of Shore Excursion: Dunedin City, Otago Peninsula, Castle Gardens & Olveston Tour
6 hours
4.79 (71)
Shore Excursion: Dunedin City, Otago Peninsula, Castle Gardens & Olveston Tour
$173.16
Tour image of City Highlights, Larnach Castle & Peninsula Views
5 hours
4.8 (69)
City Highlights, Larnach Castle & Peninsula Views
$149.46
Tour image of Dunedin Nature & City Tour – Full Day Cruise Excursion
7 hours
4.42 (64)
Dunedin Nature & City Tour – Full Day Cruise Excursion
$57.72
Tour image of Dunedin City Highlights, Otago Peninsula Scenery & a Guided Penguin Reserve Tour
6 hours
4.27 (63)
Dunedin City Highlights, Otago Peninsula Scenery & a Guided Penguin Reserve Tour
$181.66
Tour image of Dunedin Shore Excursion City Sightseeing & Tour of Larnach Castle
7 hours
4.17 (65)
Dunedin Shore Excursion City Sightseeing & Tour of Larnach Castle
$106.32
Tour image of Iconic Wildlife Tour with Yellow Eyed Penguins & Royal Albatross
7 hours
4.71 (31)
Iconic Wildlife Tour with Yellow Eyed Penguins & Royal Albatross
$239.99
Tour image of Otago Peninsula Scenery and Dunedin City Highlights Tour
5 hours
4.61 (31)
Otago Peninsula Scenery and Dunedin City Highlights Tour
$145.82
Tour image of Larnach Castle Tour & Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
6 hours
4.86 (22)
Larnach Castle Tour & Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
$118.48
Tour image of Half day Private Tour of Dunedin City Highlights and Peninsula Scenery
4 hours
4.83 (18)
Half day Private Tour of Dunedin City Highlights and Peninsula Scenery
$729.08
Tour image of Harbour, Albatross and Wildlife Cruise on Otago Harbour
2 hours
4.5 (18)
Harbour, Albatross and Wildlife Cruise on Otago Harbour
$78.98
Tour image of Otago Harbour Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
2.5 hours
4.44 (16)
Otago Harbour Wildlife Cruise (Dunedin Shore Excursion)
$85.06
Tour image of Clearwater Private Penguin & Wildlife Tour from Port Otago (5hrs)
5 hours
4.86 (7)
Clearwater Private Penguin & Wildlife Tour from Port Otago (5hrs)
$1670.82
Tour image of Dunedin Shore Excursion - Sightseeing, Larnach Castle, Chinese Garden & Museum
7 hours
3.69 (13)
Dunedin Shore Excursion - Sightseeing, Larnach Castle, Chinese Garden & Museum
$121.51
Tour image of Discover Dunedin: Wildscene Private Shore Excursion
4.5 hours
5 (3)
Discover Dunedin: Wildscene Private Shore Excursion
$106.32
Tour image of Otago Peninsula Tour and Larnach Castle City Sights (min 4 )
6 hours
5 (3)
Otago Peninsula Tour and Larnach Castle City Sights (min 4 )
$173.16

Attractions in Port Chalmers

  • Historic Wharf: Experience the essence of maritime history here.
  • Art Galleries: Explore local creativity in various independent spaces.
  • Guided Boat Tour: Discover hidden gems along the scenic coastline.
  • Food Workshops: Learn to prepare regional dishes with fresh ingredients.
  • Local Markets: Savor fresh produce and handcrafted goods every weekend.

Most popular destinations close to Port Chalmers

Day trips in Port Chalmers

Dunedin City

  • Duration: 20 minutes
  • Highlights: Cultural attractions, beautiful gardens, and wildlife encounters.
  • Best for: Culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Otago Peninsula

  • Duration: full-day loop
  • Highlights: Scenic views, rare wildlife, and beaches.
  • Best for: Nature explorers seeking stunning coastal scenery.

Taiaroa Head

  • Duration: full-day loop
  • Highlights: Albatross colony, historic lighthouse, and breathtaking cliffs.
  • Best for: Wildlife watchers and history buffs.
Tour image of Half day Private Tour of Dunedin City Highlights and Peninsula Scenery
4 hours
4.83 (18)
Half day Private Tour of Dunedin City Highlights and Peninsula Scenery
$729.08
Tour image of Clearwater Private Penguin & Wildlife Tour from Port Otago (5hrs)
5 hours
4.86 (7)
Clearwater Private Penguin & Wildlife Tour from Port Otago (5hrs)
$1670.82

Hidden gems

  • Discover the quaint Little Blue Penguin Gallery.
  • Visit the charming antique shops on George Street.
  • Enjoy quiet moments at the lesser-known waterfront park.

Port Chalmers Expert Travel Tips

  1. Bring NZ$10 for local market purchases.
  2. Try to book tours in advance during peak season.
  3. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring extensive walking paths.
  4. Check weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
  5. Respect local customs and etiquette when visiting cafés.

Travel Port Chalmers your way

Art & Culture

Image of Culture
Culture
Image of Historical Tours
Historical Tours
Image of Cultural Tours
Cultural Tours

Outdoor Activities

Image of Nature and Wildlife Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Image of Nature Walks
Nature Walks
Image of Eco Tours
Eco Tours
Image of Coffee Cruises
Coffee Cruises
Image of On the Water
On the Water
Image of Motor Sports
Motor Sports
Image of 4WD Tours
4WD Tours
Image of Extreme Sports
Extreme Sports

Food & Drink

Image of Coffee Cruises
Coffee Cruises
Image of Coffee & Tea
Coffee & Tea

Tickets & Passes

Image of Motor Sports
Motor Sports
Image of Sporting Events
Sporting Events
Image of 4WD Tours
4WD Tours

Best time to visit Port Chalmers

Icon of spring

Spring 2025

Image of spring
Spring features mild weather, ideal for the Port Chalmers Market showcasing local produce and crafts.
Icon of summer

Summer 2025

Image of summer
Summer brings warm days perfect for scenic boat tours around the harbor's stunning landscapes.
Icon of autumn

Autumn 2025

Image of autumn
Expect colorful fall foliage, making walks through the local parks particularly picturesque during autumn.
Icon of winter

Winter 2025

Image of winter
Winter offers chilly air, suited for cozy café experiences with hot drinks in Port Chalmers.
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FAQs

While a car can be helpful, Port Chalmers is walkable, and public transport options are available within a short distance.
Yes, several local companies offer guided tours, particularly boat tours and walking experiences around the area.
The easiest route is by car or bus from Dunedin, taking about 20 minutes to reach this scenic port.
Entry fees vary; expect around NZ$15 for some galleries and markets, while many outdoor sites are free to explore.
Yes, there are several cozy lodges and bed-and-breakfasts available, with prices starting at NZ$100 per night.

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