Why choose Black Cat Cruises:
- Over 40 years’ experience
- New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator
- Department of Conservation approved
- High dolphin sighting success
- Small group tours
- Family friendly
What is the story behind Black Cat?
Black Cat Cruises has been part of the Banks Peninsula community for four decades. While our story officially began in 1985, our roots stretch back to the 1920s, when the founding Bingham family forged an early connection with the Diamond Harbour ferry. Today, we remain proudly family-owned, carrying forward a legacy deeply entwined with the region’s maritime history.
What began with a handful of passengers travelling in small canoes and dinghies soon grew into something much larger. Founders Ron and Durelle Bingham saw the incredible, untapped potential of Akaroa’s marine wildlife and natural beauty as a world-class visitor experience. From the start, they championed two guiding principles that continue to shape our operations today:
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A year-round commitment to the sea — We operate 365 days a year, heading out in all but the toughest southerly winds.
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Protection and promotion of New Zealand’s endangered wildlife — including Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and little blue penguins.
Across the decades, Black Cat Cruises has weathered many challenges—earthquakes, shifting tourism landscapes, even a global pandemic. Each obstacle strengthened our resilience and reinforced our commitment to delivering exceptional, responsible marine experiences. These values have helped us grow into one of New Zealand’s leading cruise operators.
Above all, our people are at the heart of who we are. Our vision has always been to provide the highest quality experiences, built on education, entertainment, and safety. We owe our success to a passionate, dedicated team who bring their knowledge, care, and enthusiasm to the water every day.
