QUAIL ISLAND
Christchurch’s very own island escape is waiting for you. Spend a fascinating full or half-day exploring Quail Island by taking our Quail Island ferry. Take your lunch and swimming costumes with you for a great family day out. Please note we have a new booking system which requires you to select both a departure and return ticket.
SCHEDULE & PRICE
$40 – Return
Adult 16 years and over
$20 – Return
Child 5-15 years
(Under 5’s cruise for free)
Departs Lyttelton
All Year 10.15am daily + Dec to Mar 12.15pm daily
Departs Quail
All Year 3.30/3.40pm daily + Dec to Mar 12.30pm daily
Please see calander below for availability
RIPAPA ISLAND
Small Island – Grand Past. Nestled against the southern shore of Whakaraupō (Lyttelton Harbour), Ripapa Island was once the prime location for a fortified pa of Ngāi Tahu. Later, it became a bastion against potential Russian threats. On-site displays delve deeper into its rich history.
SCHEDULE & PRICE
$40 – Return
Adult 16 years and over
$20 – Return
Child 5-15 years
(Under 5’s cruise for free)
Operates December -> March.
Saturday & Sunday
9.00am until 11.30am
Available at other times for groups of 10 or more.
HOW TO FIND US
We are located at B Jetty, Lyttelton Harbour. Lyttelton is around 15 to 20 minutes drive from the centre of Christchurch.
HOW TO GET TO LYTTLETON
Lyttelton is around 15 to 20 minutes drive from the centre of Christchurch. See http://maps.google.com/ for detailed information about how to drive yourself. Print this map out to help you navigate.
BY CAR
We are located at B Jetty, Lyttelton Harbour. At the end of the Lyttelton tunnel turn left onto Norwich Quay. The 2nd turn to the right is the Oxford Street overbridge, you will need to park on Norwich Quay and walk over the bridge. Follow the footprints on the pavement and signs to Black Cat Ferries and Quail Island.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Alternatively, you can catch the number 28 bus. A regular bus service runs between Christchurch and Lyttelton.
YOUR QUESTIONS Bring a torch to explore the tunnels as they are not lit. Bring a camera or phone to take some fantastic photos. We also recommend that you bring warm clothes as it can be cool on the island, especially with the prevailing sea breeze. Eating is not permitted on Ripapa Island as this denigrates its tapu (sacred) status. The Ripapa Island trip departs Lyttelton at 9.15 a.m. and takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the island. The boat does not stay on the island whilst you are there. You will have just over 90 minutes on the island before returning to the jetty for your return departure at 11.15 a.m. The return ferry departs promptly at 11:30 a.m. We don’t recommend Ripapa Island for anyone in a wheelchair because there are no tracks on the island and no wheelchair access to the fort, outbuildings or upper terrace. In addition, the jetty steps are steep for those in a wheelchair. The award-winning Black Cat Cruises is not only an acclaimed success in New Zealand’s tourism industry but also internationally recognized as an eco-tourism pioneer. We hold the honour of being the first to introduce cruises in Akaroa, and we're proud to be acknowledged as New Zealand’s very first eco-tourism operator. 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 and Quail Island ferry depart from Lyttelton in Christchurch.FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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