Dolphins | Wildlife Encounters
Dolphin Encounter
Swimming with or watching the dusky dolphins which are regarded as the most acrobatic of all dolphin species is a "must do" experience while in Kaikoura. Pods of dusky dolphins ranging in size from 100 to 1000 are typically found all year round.
- Freephone
- 0800 733 365
- Phone
- +64 3 319 6777
- lynette@dolphin.co.nz
- Address
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96 Esplanade, Kaikōura
View map
- Parking
-
There is a car parking available at Encounter Kaikoura, 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura. There is additional parking on the beachfront and adjacent streets.
- Opening hours
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Tours operate at 5.30am, 8.30am and 12.30pm in the summer season (November to April) at 10.00am only (May to September), 5.30am and 8.30am only (October) .
Kaikoura is famous for a diverse range of marine mammals and birdlife and is regarded as the best place in New Zealand to view whales, dolphins, seals and albatross. Dolphin Encounter has two options to choose from, swimming with the dolphins or watching the dusky dolphins. If swimming is not for you, watching from the comfort of the boat is an unforgettable experience. Tours operate daily throughout the year subject to suitable weather and sea conditions. Check our website for the current departure times. Full wetsuits, snorkels, masks and fins are provided for swimmers. Bring a swimsuit, towel, warm clothing and small gear bag for clothing to be taken on the boat. Previous snorkelling experience is recommended but is not essential.
Pricing and Conditions
- Adult: $120.00 - $240.00
- Child: $80.00 - $225.00
Minimum age
3 years old
Conditions
To have the most memorable time swimming with the dolphins - please note the following:
Previous snorkelling experience is an advantage but not entirely necessary as instruction is given. A reasonable degree of water confidence will be helpful too. Seasickness can be challenging for some customers so please bring medication with you or alternatively, we do sell Sealegs at the tour check in counter.
Note the the minimum ages for children to join the tour to watch is 3 years & to swim is 8 years.
Cancellation Policy
If you wish to cancel/change a booking, as much advance notice as possible is required. If we do not receive at least 24 hours notice of cancellation, a fee will be charged. As swimming spaces are restricted to just 16 per vessel per tour, early advice of cancellations will enable us to sell swim seats to other customers. Please note that the swimming option is heavily booked in summer so it is important to book as far ahead as possible. If the sea is too rough to operate, full refunds apply.
Months of operation
All year round
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Listing #5370780 managed by Tourism New Zealand Operator Database.
