Private Charters

The ultimate floating venue for exclusive events, corporate functions and private celebrations.

About our Charters

Private Charters
Private Charters

Black Cat’s Charter Cruises offers the ideal floating venues for your special events across both Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours!

Transform your occasion into an unforgettable experience on the water—whether you choose an intimate gathering on board the Spirit in Lyttelton or a larger celebration on the Canterbury Cat in Akaroa. From private birthdays, family milestones, and weddings to corporate functions, social clubs, and end-of-year Christmas parties, we have the perfect vessel for your group.

Nothing compares to a bespoke private charter cruise. Imagine the beauty of a spectacular harbor sunset painting the water while your guests unwind to your selected tunes, enjoying a fully licensed bar and delicious, locally sourced catering.

Lyttelton
Maximum of 35 Guests 
Call us:03 328 9078
or Email: lyttelton@blackcat.co.nz

 

Akaroa
Maximum of 70 Guests
Call us: 03 3047641
or Email: akaroa@blackcat.co.nz

Please include a contact phone number when emailing your enquiry.

Get 20% Off Mon, Tues & Wed when booking directly through us. October, November and December only.

 

Private Charters Flyer - PDF Contact Us

Cruise Types

Dinner Cruises – Lyttelton Only

We offer two exclusive dinner cruise packages from Lyttelton Harbour, perfect for an intimate end-of-year event, a Christmas party, or a special occasion like a wedding or birthday.

Now operating from our smaller, more intimate vessel, we specialize exclusively in two fantastic 90-minute cruise options: a casual Pizza Cruise or a beautifully curated Platter Cruise.

Pricing and Details 

  • Minimum Charge of 20 People for an exclusive Charter
  • 35 People Maximum
  • Extra boat time available
  • Free Tea, Coffee and Water

Pizza Cruise – $70 P/P

 An excellent choice for an intimate gathering or a more mix and mingle outing, this splendid excursion in the harbour offers the opportunity to savour the food of your preference while enjoying the scenic views. Typically scheduled for early evening, it serves as a prelude to further festivities.

We are proud to serve local pizzas from Winnie Bagoes based in Ferrymead.

Start your evening cruise down on the wharf with us in Lyttelton.

Once the delicious food arrives, we will let the lines go and cruise the sights of the harbour for an hour and a half.

We allow for half a pizza per person. If you’d like to increase your order we can do this on request. Extra Pizza’s cost $25 dollars each.

Pizza MENU

Charter With Platters – $70 P/P

Looking to charter a boat for a couple of hours and simply have some delicious nibbles? We can organise a charter with platters of numerous sizes to cater for your party. Tea and coffee are complimentary.

Tastefully arranged platters that showcase an array of cheeses, delicately cured meats, tantalizing seafood, seasonal fruits and vegetables, enticing antipasti, artisan bread, crispy bark chips, as well as an assortment of pickles and chutneys

Platters MENU Contact us

Weddings

Create an enchanting and memorable wedding on board one of our stunning catamarans. This is your opportunity to have the wedding you’ve always imagined—with the setting sun over the harbour providing the most perfect backdrop.

Whether you choose to have your wedding ceremony at a local venue in Lyttelton or Akaroa followed by a reception on the water, or prefer to host your entire celebration on the harbour, Black Cat Cruises will make it unforgettable.

You will have plenty of time on the water with us, as well as early access prior to departure to decorate and theme the boat to create the exact atmosphere you desire. As some of the most unique and affordable wedding venues in Canterbury, our charter catamarans offer something truly special.

Talk to us about your ideas, and our dedicated team will be delighted to accommodate your special requirements.

  • In Akaroa: Our charter vessel is the Canterbury Cat, accommodating up to 70 guests.
  • In Lyttelton: Our charter vessel is the Spirit, accommodating up to 35 guests.
  • Includes: Full boat hire complete with Skipper and crew.

Pricing on application

Conferences & Events

Whether you choose the intimate setting of the Spirit in Lyttelton Harbour or the spacious layout of the Canterbury Cat in Akaroa, Black Cat Cruises provides a truly unique corporate meeting and event venue in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

It’s a fantastic choice for companies looking for a setting that will both inspire and engage. The surrounding coastal views create the perfect backdrop for a calm, productive, and memorable team environment.

  • Lyttelton (The Spirit): Comfortably accommodates up to 35 people for intimate gatherings.
  • Akaroa (Canterbury Cat): Perfect for larger corporate functions, accommodating up to 80 people comfortably.

There is a full bar available onboard both vessels, and catering can easily be organised as part of your event. Please note that BYO alcohol is not available under the terms of our liquor licence. You are also welcome to theme the boat prior to departure if required.

Please contact us directly to discuss your options if you have a meeting, corporate event, or social function to plan.

Private Charters

The Spirit (Lyttelton)

  • Features: Open/Closed rear deck. Open front deck. 1 toilet.
  • Harbour based in: Lyttelton
  • Licensed capacity: 35 pax
  • Comfortable cruising: 35 pax
  • Dining Cruising: 35 pax depending on style of cruise
  • Enclosed seating: 20 pax
  • Sound System: Yes

Canterbury Cat (Akaroa)

  • Features: Open/Closed rear deck. Open top deck and front deck. 2 toilets.
  • Harbour based in: Akaroa 
  • Licensed capacity: 99 pax
  • Comfortable cruising: 80 pax
  • Dining Cruising: 70-80 pax depending on style of cruise
  • Enclosed seating: 60 pax
  • Sound System: Yes

Bar & Beverages

  • Beer. A selection of locally crafted and international beers ranging from $11.00 per bottle
  • Wine. A selection of red, white, and sparkling wine $10.00 per glass
  • RTD’s. $10.00 per drink
  • Non-alcoholic. A selection of soft drinks and orange juice from $3.00 per bottle / can

Frequently Asked Questions

About our Private Charters and Locations

About Private Charters

Can you cater for Christmas functions and Christmas parties?

Yes! If you are looking for unique Christchurch Christmas party venues, a private charter cruise is a fantastic choice for an end-of-year function. We offer hassle-free Pizza and Platter charter options in Lyttelton Harbour, as well as bespoke corporate event setups in Akaroa. Contact our team at lyttelton@blackcat.co.nz to check key holiday availability.

Where do the cruises depart from?

Departure points depend on your chosen location. Our Christchurch private boat charters depart directly from B Jetty in Lyttelton Harbour. If you are booking an Akaroa boat charter, your cruise will depart from the main Akaroa wharf.

What is the maximum capacity for a private charter?

Our passenger capacity depends on the specific vessel and harbour you select. Lyttelton Harbour boat hire on the Spirit is a beautifully intimate venue that comfortably accommodates up to 35 passengers max. For Akaroa private cruises, the Canterbury Cat is a much larger catamaran accommodating up to 70 guests for seated dining and up to 95 passengers

Do you have a minimum number of guests required to book?

For our popular Lyttelton dinner cruises (including our Pizza and Platter options), we require a minimum charge of 20 people to secure an exclusive private boat hire. For larger corporate functions or customized charters out of Akaroa, please contact our team to discuss your specific group size.

How do I claim the 20% direct booking discount?

To secure 20% off your private charter for any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday booking in October, November, or December, you simply need to book directly through Black Cat Cruises. Contact us via phone or email rather than booking through a third-party travel agent or reseller platform.

Can we bring our own alcohol (BYO) or do you have a bar?

All of our charter vessels are fully licensed, which means BYO alcohol is not permitted under New Zealand liquor licensing laws. We feature a fantastic, fully stocked bar onboard both catamarans with local Canterbury craft beers, wines, RTDs, and non-alcoholic options. We accept Eftpos, Visa, Mastercard, or cash, and commercial bar tabs can be arranged prior to departure.

Can we have music or live entertainment?

Absolutely! Both of our charter vessels feature excellent, smartphone-compatible onboard sound systems. Connecting a custom Spotify or YouTube playlist is our most popular option, but you are also more than welcome to arrange your own live musician, acoustic performer, or DJ.

Do you staff the boat?

Yes, your safety and comfort are fully taken care of. Every private charter rate includes full boat hire complete with a qualified Skipper and professional crew to host your group.

Where do the cruises go?

Every sailing route is completely tailored to the sea and weather conditions on the day. Whether cruising past the historic bays of Lyttelton or looking for wildlife in Akaroa, we aim to give your guests a completely relaxing, scenic experience on the water.

Can you offer tailor-made cruises?

Yes! While our standard Pizza, Platter, and wedding packages are built from years of experience, we specialise in bespoke private events. If you have a specific vision for a corporate function, themed birthday, or unique celebration, reach out to our team to design a custom itinerary.

What if a member of my party suffers from sea sickness?

Because we operate large, incredibly stable catamarans inside the sheltered waters of Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours, seasickness is exceptionally rare. We are so confident you will not have a problem with seasickness that we are prepared to give the person who is sick their money back!!

What happens if the cruise has to be cancelled due to bad weather?

Unsuitable weather only affects about 5% of our bookings. If conditions prevent us from safely leaving the wharf, your event doesn't have to be cancelled—we can comfortably host your party inside the fully enclosed, sheltered decks of the vessel while remaining securely tied to the jetty.

Terms and Conditions

  • A $600 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. Bookings are confirmed on receipt of this payment.

  • For exclusive use of the boat, a minimum of 20 passengers must be paid for in Lyttelton and 40 in Akaroa.

  • Final numbers are required 10 working days prior to the cruise date. After this time catering numbers can be increased not decreased.

  • Full payment must be made 48 hours prior to departure.

  • Extra Cruise time is possible and charged in 30-minute blocks. The price depends on passenger numbers and the boat in use. This must be booked in advance and time can not be added on the day. Cruises extended over 2 hours may require the purchase of additional food to meet the requirements of our liquor license.

  • The vessel used and the departure point is at the discretion of Black Cat Cruises and may be subject to change.

  • All prices are inclusive of GST unless otherwise stated. Black Cat Cruises reserves the right to cancel the cruise due to unsuitable weather conditions with a full refund or an agreeable alternative on the night. We also reserve the right to refuse service of alcohol should the catering you choose to supply not meet the minimum provisions required on self-catered charters.

Location Specific Information

Akaroa, Getting there and Check in

Where is the Akaroa check-in office located?

As of May 1st, 2026, all tour check-ins have moved to our office at 61 Beach Road, Akaroa. Please do not go directly to the Main Wharf, as it is currently closed for redevelopment. Our team will provide you with your boarding pass and directions to the departure jetty from this office.

How early should I arrive for my Activity?

Please arrive at our 61 Beach Road office at least 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. This allows enough time for check-in, safety briefings, and the short walk to the boarding area.

Where can I find parking in Akaroa?

Free parking for up to 8 hours (including campervans) is available at the Gaiety Hall on Rue Jolie, which is a 3-minute walk from our office. On street parking is also available around Akaroa township.

How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Akaroa?

The drive from Christchurch City or the Airport typically takes 90 minutes. The route via State Highway 75 is beautiful but includes winding sections over the Hilltop, so please allow 2 hours if you are driving in peak season or are unfamiliar with the roads.

Are there any day tours from Christchurch to Akaroa for those traveling without a car?

Yes! There are several excellent options for getting to Akaroa from Christchurch without a rental car:

Akaroa French Connection: This is the primary daily shuttle service. It departs from the Christchurch Bus Interchange (8:50 AM) and Rolleston Avenue (9:00 AM), arriving in Akaroa at 11:00 AM and leaves at 4:00 PM. This is perfect for our 1:30pm Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise and our 12:30pm Swimming with Dolphins tour departures.

Day Tour Operators: Leisure Tours, Cheeky Kea Travel and Kiwi Experience, offer full-day guided tours from Christchurch that include our Nature Cruise or Dolphin Swim as part of their itinerary. These are a great option if you want door-to-door hotel pickup and insightful commentary along the way.

Private Charters: For groups or those wanting a bespoke experience, Canterbury Trails offers high-end private tours tailored to your schedule.

What is the best time of day or year to visit Akaroa for the Dolphins

Hector’s dolphins can be seen in Akaroa Harbour year-round, and every season offers something special. The warmer months from October to April are especially popular, with longer days, warmer temperatures perfect for enjoying both nature cruises and dolphin swimming experiences.

Winter (May to September) offers a different but equally memorable experience, with crisp clear days, dramatic scenery, and fewer people around Akaroa, creating a more relaxed atmosphere on and off the water. Wildlife remains active throughout the year, making any season a great time to visit.

Our cruises operate daily (except Christmas Day), weather permitting.
With Swimming with Dolphins tours available October - April.

Information for customers with a disability (Akaroa)

The current vessel we are operating in Akaroa, Canterbury Cat, is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible at this time. Please contact our friendly team at akaroa@blackcat.co.nz to discuss available options and how we may be able to assist with accessibility requirements.

Please note that due to the Main Wharf rebuild, wheelchair-accessible toilets are currently unavailable at our building. Public accessible toilets are located at the park on 82 Beach Road, Akaroa.

For hearing-impaired guests, information sheets are available in seven languages.

What is the "Dolphin Promise" guarantee?

If you don't see any dolphins on your Nature Cruise or swim, we provide a free Re-Cruise voucher so you can join us another day for a Akaroa Nature Cruise. Please note that this is a complimentary voucher and not a monetary refund.

Will I get sea sick?

Our vessels are designed for a smooth and comfortable cruising experience on Akaroa Harbour. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking preventative steps before your cruise or swim. Visit a pharmacy ahead of time and take an anti-nausea remedy early, as different options work at different speeds.

You’re also welcome to borrow sea pressure bands from reception where you can ask our friendly staff when checking in.

Once onboard, our friendly crew can advise you on the best places to sit and will happily assist if you start to feel unwell. They have plenty of helpful tips to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Route to Akaroa from Christchurch

Still have questions?

Our chatbot in the bottom right corner is ready to help with plenty more information. You can also contact us directly if you'd prefer to speak with the friendly Akaroa team.

Lyttelton, Getting there and Checking in

Where do the Black Cat Lyttelton services depart from?

All of our Lyttelton-based services, including the Diamond Harbour Ferry and Quail Island Adventures, depart from B Jetty at the Lyttelton Wharf. Once you arrive at the waterfront, look for the pedestrian overbridge which leads directly to the boarding area.

How do I get to Lyttelton from Christchurch?

Lyttelton is a convenient 15–20 minute drive from Christchurch city centre via the Lyttelton Tunnel. If you are using public transport, the No. 8 bus runs regularly between the city and the Lyttelton wharf area.

Is there parking available at the Lyttelton wharf?

There is no public parking available on the wharf itself. We recommend utilising the public street parking within the Lyttelton township. Please allow at least 20 minutes before your Check in time to find a space and walk down to the jetty, as the area can be particularly busy during weekends and peak summer periods.

What facilities are available near the wharf?

There is one toilet available on the Wharf itself. Lyttelton township offers a range of cafes, pharmacies, and public toilets just a 5-10 minute walk from the departure point. We recommend visiting these before heading to the jetty, as facilities on the wharf itself are limited.

Accessibility & Disability Support at Lyttelton

We strive to make our harbour experiences accessible to everyone. If you are visiting our Lyttelton departure point, please note the following location-specific information:

Arrival and Wharf Access
Our services depart from B Jetty at the Lyttelton Wharf. Access to the jetty is via a pedestrian overbridge from the township. While the path is paved, it involves a short walk from the main street.

Parking for Mobility Card Holders
As there is no public parking on the Lyttelton wharf, we recommend using the dedicated accessible parking spaces located within the Lyttelton township. Please allow extra time to navigate from the street level down to the waterfront.

Boarding Assistance
Our crew are trained to assist with boarding. Ramps are available for most departures; however, boarding can be affected by the tide. We highly recommend arriving 20 minutes prior to your departure so our team can ensure you are boarded safely and comfortably.

Carer Support
We offer various supports for those travelling with a carer, including the Hāpai Access Card programme. Carer discounts are available across our Lyttelton services—please refer to our specific Diamond Harbour Ferry or Quail Island pages for the exact concessions available for those experiences.

Assistance Dogs
Certified assistance dogs are welcome at our Lyttelton terminal and on all our vessels.

Number 8 Bus timetable (Metro Info)

B-Jetty: Departure point in Lyttelton

Lyttelton Map

Still have questions?

Our chatbot in the bottom right corner is ready to help with plenty more information. You can also contact us directly if you'd prefer to speak with the friendly Lyttelton team.

hector's dolphins akaroa
christchurch day trip

ABOUT US

The award-winning Black Cat Cruises is not only an acclaimed success in New Zealand's tourism industry but also internationally recognised as an eco-tourism pioneer. We hold the honour of being the first to introduce cruises in Akaroa, and we're proud to New Zealand's very first eco-tourism operator.

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OUR LOCATIONS

Our Nature Cruises and Dolphin Swimming experience depart from the stunning Akaroa harbour which is only a 90 minute scenic drive from Christchurch. The Diamond Harbour, Quail Island ferry and Ripapa Island trips depart from the Lyttelton Wharf in Christchurch.

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AWARD WINNING ADVENTURES

For over 4 decades Black Cat has been recognised nationally and internationally with numerous tourism and conservation awards and are recognised as
New Zealand's first true eco-tourism operator

Department of Conservation partner badge for Black Cat Cruises

Awarded by the Department of Conservation for our safe and sustainable practices with the environment and wildlife we work around

We partner with Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust to help protect our local environment and wildlife

We are proud to be a Guardian Member of Sustainable Travel International. Together, we're creating a better future for destinations and the people who live there

Qual Mark Gold partner badge for Black Cat Cruises

Qualmark endorsed, the only Akaroa cruise operator with an Enviro-Gold award

Black Cat Cruises was voted the #1 experience out of the Top 100 Bucket List for Experience OZ + NZ

Consistently ranked in the top 10% of global attractions as a repeat winner of the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award

Lonely Planet recognised our Swimming With Dolphins experience as one of the Top 10 Marine Mammal Experiences in the world

The New Zealand Tourism award winners on multiple occasions as well being finalists as recently as 2025

AWARD WINNING ADVENTURES

For over 4 decades Black Cat has been recognised nationally and internationally with numerous tourism and conservation awards and are recognised as New Zealand's first true eco-tourism operator

Department of Conservation partner badge for Black Cat Cruises

Awarded by the Department of Conservation for our safe and sustainable practices with the environment and wildlife we work around

We partner with Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust to help protect our local environment and wildlife

Qual Mark Gold partner badge for Black Cat Cruises

Qualmark endorsed, the only Akaroa cruise operator with an Enviro-Gold award

We are Proud to be a Guardian Member of Sustainable Travel International. Together, we're creating a better future for destinations and the people who live there

Black Cat Cruises was voted the #1 experience out of the Top 100 Bucket List for Experience OZ + NZ

Consistently ranked in the top 10% of global attractions as a repeat winner of the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award.

Lonely Planet recognised our Swimming With Dolphins experience as one of the Top 10 Marine Mammal Experiences in the world

The New Zealand Tourism Award winners on multiple occasions as well being finalists as recently as 2025.