Port Chalmers, a small, historically rich town, is the gateway to the Dunedin region when visiting by cruise ship and offers a huge range of activities for you to enjoy
We suggest that you check out the range of Shore Excursions offered by your cruise line as these are often tailored specifically for the time your cruise allows in our region.
Dunedin city centre is approx a 20 minute bus ride from Port Chalmers and the city centre provides many sightseeing, shopping or cultural activities to choose from. On the opposite side of the harbour, the Otago Peninsula offers spectacular scenery, rare wildlife and heritage sites.
Free wifi is available on the wharf for cruise passengers, and Dunedin has a mobile-friendly website to help guide you around our city.
About Port Chalmers
Modern commerce proceeds amid a charming village feel, a village now home to many of Dunedin’s artisans. Stroll the streets to explore the specialist galleries and fashion studios where artists, designers and craftspeople can be seen at work. Absorb the history or just take time out in the cafes and legendary pubs.
Cruise Ship Schedule
The schedule of arrival and departure times for all cruise ships coming into Port Chalmers & Dunedin is updated daily on the Port Otago website.
When you are arranging your schedule, please allow sufficient time for disembarking processes before going ashore. If in doubt, please check with the purser's office.
Events
Are you lucky enough to be in town during an event? Find out here.
i-SITE container at the wharf
Staff from the local i-SITE Visitor Centre are available at the wharf to greet passengers. The onsite container shop is set up to provide all the services we have at the i-SITE in town.
We can provide information about Dunedin, offer suggestions for your day in our city and make any bookings you may need. The container i-SITE also has a range of souvenirs, maps and postcards for sale.
We have updates of all the tours around the city each day to ensure we can give you an up-to-date accurate range of options for your outings.
Read more about the 
Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre
Places to Shop
Whether you are looking to shop for your yourself or family there are a lot of different options in Dunedin. You may even stumble across one of our many boutique fashion designer stores!
Places to Eat
Dunedin has a range of different places to eat from boutique cafes to fine dining. And it's all within a short walk of one another! Get all the information here.
Transport into the city
Often your ship will have arranged bus transport into Dunedin city. There are also a range of tour & suburban buses that depart from Port Chalmers. Their frequency can vary depending on demand.
You may also choose to take a taxi into town.
If you have booked ahead for an organised tour, check with your organiser for departure points and times.
What to See & Do
There is plenty to do in Dunedin with only a few hours to spare. There is something for everyone, do you like Gardens? Food and beer? Wildlife? Walking? Heritage and architecture? Mountain biking? The list goes on.