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Water activity

Kaikoura: Dolphin Encounter Cruise

4.9  / 5
118 reviews
Activity provider:Encounter Kaikoura
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Water activity

Kaikoura: Dolphin Encounter Cruise

Activity provider:Encounter Kaikoura
4.9  / 5
118 reviews
Likely to sell out

From US$ 68.45 per person

Likely to sell out
Eco-certified
This activity, attraction, or activity provider has been certified eco-friendly by a third-party agency. GetYourGuide works with organizations from all over the world to bring you tours and activities that support sustainable practices.

Experience wild dolphins close-up on this cruise of the Kaikoura coast. Choose to watch their acrobatics from the boat or enter the water and swim with the dolphins.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 3.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English

Experience

Highlights
  • Encounter the Dusky Dolphin species in the wild
  • Enter the water and interact with the dolphins
  • See the breathtaking scenery along the Kaikoura coast
  • Observe dolphin acrobatics from the boat
  • Snorkel in the ocean
Full description

Cruise along the scenic Kaikoura coast as you watch for dolphins. During the cruise, you'll be able to swim with the dolphins in their natural habitat or watch their antics from the comfort of the boat.

Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to encounter the Dusky Dolphins in their natural environment. The Dusky Dolphins are some of the most interactive and acrobatic species of dolphins, making them thrilling to watch and interact with. 

Includes
  • Dolphin watching cruise
  • Swim with the dolphins (if option selected)
  • Wetsuit with jacket, snorkel, mask, and fins (if swimming option selected)
  • Safety briefing
  • Commentary from expert guide
  • Souvenir information pack to take home
  • Food and beverages (available for purchase at the local partner's base)
Not suitable for
  • Children under 3 years

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Check-in at the reception desk on arrival

Open in Google Maps ⟶
Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Hat
  • Swimwear
  • Change of clothes
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Charged Smartphone
  • Motion sickness prevention
  • Face mask or protective covering

Not allowed

  • Drones
  • Touching marine life

Know before you go

  • In the summer months, the water temperature rarely rises above 19 degrees Celsius
  • In the winter months, the water drops to around 8 degrees Celsius
  • All boats used for swimming with dolphins have deck showers available
  • It is advisable to wear warm clothing and sensible footwear when checking in for the tour
  • All swimmers will be supplied with a well-fitted wetsuit
  • Hot showers are available in the changing rooms at the local partner's base after the tour
Likely to sell out

From US$ 68.45 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
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Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 118 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Transportation
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.8/5
  • Service
    5/5

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I was just an observer rather than a swimmer this day. It was delightful to be on the water and see the dolphins literally jumping and leaping for fun! Good organisation and helpful crew. Excellent to learn about the dolphin behaviour & evolution of night feeding.

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April 12, 2023

M
Mary – New ZealandVerified booking

Helpful?

An experience next to none! Next time I will opt to go for a dip in the water, but even just being a passenger on the boat was absolutely amazing! I had a saw jaw from grinning all day. Such a special moment to see the dolphins so close for the first time. And then to see them play and interact, so many of them! Guides were very informative and every one of the staff were friendly, and approachable. I would and will recommend this to anyone traveling this way!

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April 11, 2023

J
Jessica – New ZealandVerified booking

Helpful?

Once in a lifetime experience! The staff ensured I felt warm and was well cared for. We saw lots of dolphins and they swam right up to us, it was like watching a documentary through my mask! I am so glad I made the effort to wake up so early for the sunrise swim. Thank you to the staff onboard for making it such a memorable day for me.

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April 6, 2023

D
David – United KingdomVerified booking

Helpful?

Product ID: 408805

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