How do you spend the ultimate Valetines day????

We all know Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to spoil your loved one and create great memories together. Whether you’re looking to impress a new date or do something different for your 10th Valentine’s Day together, look no further than this blog! We’ll give you the perfect plan to make your special day an unforgettable romantic trip.

First: Swim with the Hector’s Dolphins 

Book a morning swim with Black Cat Cruises at our website. Get over to Akaroa nice and early, enjoying the scenic views of Banks Peninsula along the way.

Maybe even stop for a coffee at the Hilltop Tavern, which looks out over the harbour. Once you arrive at the main wharf, our friendly team will suit you both up and take you out for a magical encounter with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins.

There’s a high chance you and your loved one will be within touching distance of these curious and intelligent marine mammals. At this point, you’ll both understand the hype- the early morning, the tight wetsuit, the jumping in the ocean- will all be worth it. Plus, you’ve now experienced something special alongside your partner, and we’re just getting started!

Second: Romantic lunch

By now it’s lunch-time, and we all know it’s essential to keep the belly full to avoid any unnecessary ‘hangriness’. We have a few ideas on how to spend the next couple of hours in Akaroa, the choice is yours: 

• Wine tastings/tours
  • There are two stunning vineyards in Akaroa owned by lovely locals. Both ‘Meniscus Wines’ and ‘The Akaroa Winery’ are great choices. They’re always eager to host couples, just get in touch with them in advance as it’s sure to be busy on Valentine’s Day. 
• Intimate Dining
  • The Little Bistro has a great romantic atmosphere and is suited to a dine-in experience for two.
  • Ma Maison Restaurant and Bar is located right on the beachfront. Seafood is their specialty and they’ve been described as Akaroa’s ‘Hidden Gem’.
  • The HarBar next door has an open view of the ocean complete with a fresh sea breeze. This is a really cool place for a drink. 
  • Try the Mandela Restaurant if you’re looking for some quality Indian Food which is sure to keep you both smiling. 
• Go for a picnic 
  • Perhaps you’re after a quiet, secluded spot for some one-on-one with your partner. Pack a blanket, basket, and some glasses, dip into the Four Square in town for some food and try one of these places below:
    • Walking up Stanley park can be steep, but it’s nice and short with a stunning view over Akaroa’s township and beyond. ​​Plus you’ll pass some grazing sheep, and who doesn’t want to see that! There are heaps of flat spots to set up too.
    • If you aren’t opposed to the hubbub of others and enjoy an energetic backdrop, take your picnic to Akaroa beach instead. 

Third: Do something fun on land 

Now is the time to do something spontaneous for an hour. Go for a walk along the water, check out the ‘Giants Garden’ or ‘Garden of Tane’, impress/scare your partner by flipping some rocks over and picking up a crab or two. If you want more excitement, play a friendly competition of mini-golf. Whoever wins gets a free backrub later that night!

Check out some of the local shops. There’s a couple of gemstone shops that are always worth checking out. Pot Pourri is a general store nestled in the heart of Akaroa’s township. They also happen to have the best selection of homemade fudge I’ve ever seen. Plenty of jewellery stores around too, and it’s the perfect day to convince your partner to buy you something special.

If you aren’t sick of the water yet, and you’re an adventurous couple, jump off the wharf! Akaroa has a couple of wharves that are perfect. I’d recommend the one right by the beach, as it’s not too high and you can chill on the sand after your adventures. If you’re feeling brave though, there’s always the much higher main wharf you can send it from. Just take care where you jump, and assess the conditions first. 

Fourth: Akaroa Harbour and Nature Cruise

Book an afternoon cruise with us and we’ll show you the rest of the harbour you missed in the morning. You’ll realise there’s even more to this beautiful harbour than just dolphins (but you’re sure to see them again too). Relax with your partner with the gentle rocking of waves, or hunt for the picture-perfect background for Instagram.

Our experienced skippers know how to balance fascinating commentary with periods of silence to let you soak in the rocky cliffs and blue water. Along the way, you’ll encounter Little Blue Penguins, Fur Seals, and maybe something even bigger than a dolphin if you’re lucky!

Check out our Instagram to see photos of a Killer Whale sighted last month. 

Fifth: Stay overnight 

Turn your romantic break into a romantic getaway by staying the night away from Christchurch. 

Tree Crop farm has a collection of ‘Lover’s retreat’ huts which are perfect if you’re looking for something rustic and private. 

Te Wepu stays have a collection of Luxury Pods, complete with a personal spa out the front. It’s a little more expensive but well worth the treat for Valentine’s Day. 

Sum up

You and your partner will make unforgettable memories together if you choose Akaroa this Valentine’s Day. We’ve given you some ideas, but it’s only a template. Pick and choose what sounds good to you and what you can afford. Still, splashing out every once in a while with your partner is well worth it, and you can’t go wrong with Black Cat Cruises. Book with us now, on our website.

written by Josh Bingham