About Coast Up Close
We are passionate about the area, the scenery and the wildlife. Sharing it with our guests is a privilege and our aim is to provide the best possible trip every time.
Safety is also high on our priority list. We take all necessary precautions which means we have to consider sea and weather conditions and at times might have to cancel a trip if we feel it is unsafe or it would not be enjoyable for our guests.
Tony Muir – Owner / Skipper
Tony has been exploring the waters around the Peninsula since the 1960s. He commercially crayfished in the 1990s here. He loves diving, fishing, kayaking and boating in and around this amazing coastline and can take you to some really special spots. He’ll entertain you with his stories and share his enthusiasm for this wonderful place.
Mafi – Skipper/Crew & Scruffy
Mafi (co skipper / crew) is originally from Switzerland and has guided kayaking and dolphin swimming tours on Akaroa Harbour since arriving here in 1992. Scruffy (first mate) loves welcoming people on the boat and making sure everybody is happy and gets plenty of attention. He is about to retire and occasionally does not join us now.
Wairiri – Our Boat
Wairiri (means ‘Angry Waters) was originally a fishing boat built in Invercargill in 1964. Her double diagonal construction makes her very strong and her twin engines help her maneuverability and reliability. Tony spent a year renovating and restoring her so that you can enjoy a ride that is comfortable and close to the action. The boat has a toilet on board.
About Akaroa
Coast Up Close is based in Akaroa, a quiet little village on Banks Peninsula in the South Island of New Zealand. The name Akaroa comes from the Maori word for “Long Harbour.”
Akaroa is 84 km from Christchurch by road and sits in a beautiful sheltered harbour surrounded by colourful volcanic hills.
It still retains a French flavour and flair from its first settlers and this is reflected in many of the local street names.