Free cancellation: Get a full refund of ticket price up to 24 hours in advance
Dolphin Encounter - Swim with or watch Kaikoura's Dusky Dolphins
Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to both view and swim with wild dusky dolphins. With a very high success rate The Dolphin Encounter tour provides a unique opportunity to either swim and interact with wild dolphins whilst snorkelling, or to remain on board and watch the dolphins from the comfort of the boat. The vessels are all purpose built for marine mammal watching with "walk around" decks and access to the bow to enjoy the best views of one of the most accrobatic dolphin species.
From
NZ$115
per person
3.5 hours Highlights
Kaikoura is among the best locations in the world to encounter interact with wild dusky dolphins
Dusky dolphins are regarded as the most acrobatic and curious of all dolphin species
Pod sizes vary depending on the time of year but can sometimes range from 50-1000 dolphins
Tours operate daily and all year round, weather permitting, except for Christmas Day
Swimmer numbers are limited to 16 passengers per boat so advance booking is recommended
Full Description
Dusky dolphins are superb entertainers and the pods that are found along the Kaikoura coast, all year round, are simply awe-inspiring.
Energized, yet graceful and so beautful, the dusky dolphins are the super stars of the local ocean environment. They are guaranteed to put a lasting smile on your face.
Dolphin Encounter tours have been in existence since the summer of 1989/1990 and have become regarded as a...
Includes
GoPros and accessories available for hire
Prescription masks available on request
All equipment supplied for swimming with the dolphins
Complimentary information pack
The meeting point for all tours is the Encounter Kaikoura operating base located at 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura
Additional Information
Swimmers should bring a swimsuit, a towel and a small bag to accommodate their clothing which will be taken on board the boat. Swimwear and towels are available for rent and bags available for purchase.
All passengers should bring warm clothing, sun screen and a bottle of water. Please note - all passengers are required to complete a medical disclaimer via an online check in link prior to the tour.
Full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before activity starts.
Good weather is required for this experience. If we need to cancel due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
There is a minimum number of travellers for this experience. If the minimum isn't met and we need to cancel, we will offer a different date/experience or a full refund.
Our Products/Services
From
NZ$115
per person
3.5 hours 
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Dolphin Encounter - Watching the Dusky Dolphins
Dolphin Encounter - Swim with the Dusky Dolphins
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own camera and Gopro?
Are there restroom facilities on the boat?
What should I bring on the dolphin encounter tour?
Are there health restrictions for participating in the swim?
Participants must be at least 8 years old to swim with the dolphins.
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems, respiratory issues, or other serious health concerns, may be restricted from participating in the swim.
While previous snorkeling experience is not mandatory, a basic level of swimming ability is required to safely participate in the swim.
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