Akaroa Swim with Dolphins

Pick up from your central city accommodation between 8:15–8:45am.

Journey south across the dramatic landscapes of Banks Peninsula. Travel via Governor’s Bay and Gebbie’s Pass, skirting Lakes Ellesmere and Forsyth before ascending to the famed Hilltop Lookout. From here, take in an unforgettable panorama of Akaroa Harbour — a vast volcanic crater flooded by the sea.

Arrive in the historic French village of Akaroa, a former whaling port rich in character, maritime history, and French-colonial heritage. Enjoy time to explore the charming township, with its boutique craft shops, welcoming cafés, scenic waterfront, and idyllic coastal photo spots, before preparing for one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Board your vessel and suit up with premium wetsuits and snorkelling gear before heading out into the sheltered volcanic harbour. This pristine marine conservation environment is home year-round to Hector’s dolphins — the smallest and rarest dolphin species in the world — making Akaroa one of the very few places on Earth where swimming with these remarkable animals is possible.

Enter the calm waters of the harbour and experience the rare thrill of swimming alongside these curious, playful dolphins as they glide, dive, and interact naturally around you. Guided by experienced marine specialists, the encounter is conducted with care and respect, offering a deeply personal and unforgettable connection with wildlife. While on the water, keep watch for Little Blue Penguins, seals, and seabirds that share this unique coastal haven.

On the return journey to Christchurch, enjoy a stop at Barry’s Bay–a local artisan cheese factory, sampling handcrafted New Zealand cheeses in a picturesque countryside setting before continuing back to the city.

The tour concludes with drop-off to your accommodation at approximately 5:45pm.

We operate this tour in partnership with Black Cat Akaroa.

Please note: Dolphin swimming does not operate from May–August.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION TO SWIM WITH THE DOLPHINS

A basic level of fitness is required. You will be in deep water (open ocean) and will be required to swim to and from the boat – distances up to 50 meters (150 feet) at a time. You will not be able to touch the bottom.

Swimming with dolphins is not available for children under 8 years old. Children between 8 – 12 must be accompanied by an adult swimmer.

Customers should have some knowledge of English, so you can understand safety instructions and emergency procedures. If you do not speak English, you should be able to read and understand the foreign language safety instructions and be confident that you can communicate with crew using the pre-agreed hand signals in the event of an emergency.

Customers must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

You must wear your own swimwear under the provided wetsuits.

We also recommend that you bring a warm change of clothes for after your swim.