Description
Kaikoura Swim with Dolphins
Tour code:
LT09
/5
1 Day
Kaikoura
Start from:
Christchurch
End at:
Christchurch
Type tour:
Single day tour
Age range:
8 - 60 ages
Languages:
English
Payments:
Pay Online
Highlights
Scenic journey through North Canterbury’s rolling farmland and coastal landscapes.
Free time to explore the relaxed seaside town of Kaikōura.
Swim with wild dusky dolphins in their natural ocean habitat.
Learn respectful dolphin interaction techniques from expert marine guides.
Exceptional opportunities for wildlife photography against mountain and ocean backdrops.
About This Tour
Travel from Christchurch to the dramatic coastline of Kaikōura, where snow-capped mountains tumble into the Pacific Ocean, and rich marine life thrives just offshore. This full-day journey combines scenic North Canterbury landscapes with one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters—swimming with wild dolphins in their natural environment.
Enjoy time to explore the relaxed coastal town of Kaikōura before venturing offshore with an expert marine team. Equipped with premium wetsuits and snorkelling gear, enter the open ocean to swim alongside playful dusky dolphins as they glide, dive, and interact in crystal clear waters. Onboard, knowledgeable guides share insights into dolphin behaviour and the unique marine ecosystem that makes Kaikōura so special. Encounters with seals, seabirds, and—occasionally—distant sperm whales add to this unforgettable ocean experience.
An exciting full day defined by adventure, connection, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
What to Expect
Pick up from your central city accommodation between 7-7:45am.
Begin your day with a relaxing journey from Christchurch through pastoral landscapes and rugged coastlines, where the mountains meet the sea in dramatic fashion.
Enjoy free time to wander this picturesque marine town, known for its rich Māori heritage, stunning alpine backdrop, and vibrant wildlife culture. There are many small eateries and cafes, with endless offerings to treat yourself.
Join Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura for a thrilling open-ocean swim with pods of playful Dusky Dolphins. Equipped with wetsuit, mask, snorkel, and flippers, you will dive into their world and witness their acrobatic displays up close. Onboard your vessel, discover the subtle methods used to encourage dolphin engagement. Your guides share fascinating insights into dolphin behaviour and Kaikoura’s unique marine ecosystem.
From dolphins and seals to seabirds, Kaikoura offers endless opportunities for wildlife photography against a backdrop of ocean and mountains.
Enjoy a warm and peaceful journey back to Christchurch.
The tour concludes with drop off to your accommodation at approximately 6:30pm.
This tour is operated in partnership with Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura -a world-leader in dolphin encounters.
Please note the Dolphin Swimming does not operate over the winter months 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 metres (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.
Life Jackets and Floating devices are not typically permitted.
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.
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Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline.
Included
Driver/Guide
Encounter Kaikoura – Dolphin Encounter
Wetsuit, snorkel and flippers are provided.
None
Optional Upgrades
Customer Support
We have a professional customer support team and always accompany you on every trip.
Customer reviews
/5
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