Welcome to Banks Peninsula, home of The Hector’s dolphins and eco-tourism pioneers Black Cat Cruises

Category Archives: Black Cat News

THE BREEZE 62

We are starting to head into our traditional off season but we’ll be out on the harbours every day. Below are some highlights from the season just completed including some of our best photos, a unique marriage proposal and our on going efforts to protect Hector’s dolphins. Thanks for reading. Cheers Paul   Photo of […]

THE BREEZE 57

The shortest day is nearly upon us and whilst many are hoping it’s about to snow the fine weather has been great for cruising. We’ve had some special sightings of whales recently and hosted some VIPs including the former mayor of San Francisco and a NZ sports legend. We’re also looking forward to next summer […]

CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE UPDATE

One of the many damaged buildings after the devastating Christchurch earthquake We extend our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the Christchurch earthquake on Feb 22nd. For the benefit of our passengers and those looking to get away from the city, we want to let you know that everything is fully operational in Akaroa. […]

QUEEN MARY 2 CRUISE SHIP : ESCORTING OUT OF LYTTELTON HARBOUR

Have you ever seen a cruise ship up close?  We see about 50 cruise ships a year docking in Lyttleton Harbour, and the sheer size of these ships never stops impressing us!  When we witness just how large these ships can be, we have to take a moment to consider what a feat of human […]

A UNIQUE VENUE FOR YOUR FUNCTION!

Did you know that you can charter Black Cat boats for private events?  Our Canterbury Cat and Black Cat catamarans comfortably hold up to 80 people, providing the perfect venue for a unique and enjoyable function. A smooth evening From entertaining clients and staff to celebrating with friends and family, chartered cruises are a memorable […]

FIRST BLACK CAT CRUISE CUSTOMER COMES FORWARD

After an exhaustive search we have found one of the very first passengers from the first cruise in 1985. Brian Woods took part in the inaugural service and we have presented Brian with free cruises for the rest of his life. Brian joined former and current Black Cat staff members, customers and the original skipper […]

25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY FOR BLACK CAT CRUISES

On October 20th 1985, the Charmaine set out on her first Akaroa Harbour Cruise. At the helm was Captain Ron Bingham and on board were two paying passengers. Total revenue $16. The business was partly inspired by the Hutchens family who started Fiordland Travel (now Real Journeys). Living in Te Anau we had seen what […]