Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center

The excursion included a drive along the beautiful mountainous coast, stopping at an overlook, a drive around Christchurch central stopping for lunch on our own. After lunch we drove out to the Antarctic Center. A guide gave us a too lengthy talk about the Antarctic outside on a hill (very uncomfortable standing there while he droned on). Then the fun part started. We rode in a Heggland (snow coach) over an obstacle course, donned coats and entered a snow room where Antarctic wind and cold conditions were demonstrated, and we watched a 3-d movie about Antarctic animals that “splashed” you. Unfortunately, we were rushed thru the Antarctic fun stuff due to time constraints. Less time driving around town in circles would have given us more time at the center. Our bus driver was very informative and obviously proud to show off his city. I gave this review 4 stars only because of the timing - too much time at some stops and not enough time at others.

Great commentary on board. Some of the seats in the bus don't recline properly. Some of the spots were a bit rushed. The Antarctic Center, which is the highlight was really a must.

The tour started 1 hour late so we had to skip the first part. When we arrived at the Anarctic Center, there was a power outage so we could not go in. Scotty our tour operator assured us that the cost for the Antarctic Center would be returned to our Visa by the time the cruise was finished on March 13th. Today is the 29th and so far, no refund. The city visit on the tour was great and we were disappointed that we couldn't see the Antarctic Center, but understood it was not Viator's fault. But we don't understand why they haven't refunded the cost of the Center??