Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura Swim

Best seller
Most popular
Fitness level moderate
Intensity level moderate
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Highlights & inclusions

Dolphin tour & complete guided commentary
Swimming with the dolphins
Snorkelling equipment & wetsuits
Dolphin Encounter has attained the Enviro Gold Qualmark rating
Spectacular coastal and mountain scenery
Up-close dolphin encounters in Kaikoura
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From
$220.80AUD
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to experience

1. Select date

November 2024

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Hot Deal
Last minute deal

2. Select participants

Adult - Swimming
0
Child (8-14yrs) - Swimming
0

What you can expect

Did you know...? There is evidence that humans and dolphins have been interacting with each other for as long as we have been recording history. This is not surprising, considering that dolphins are one of the most intelligent and social mammals on earth. Now you have a chance to swim with these majestic, unique individuals yourself!

Found off the coasts of Kaikoura all year round, the Dusky dolphin typically exists in large pods consisting of hundreds of members. Dusky dolphins have a playful, sociable characteristic, which makes them absolutely perfect for swimming with. Now you can watch or swim with the Dusky dolphins, under the guidance of the friendly team at Dolphin Encounter (Encounter Kaikoura). Imagine jumping into the dolphin's natural habitat and sharing a special moment with these gorgeous mammals. Certainly, an experience that will put a smile on your face for years to come.

If you choose not to swim with the dolphins, you will still have the chance to experience the entertaining actions of the frolicking, acrobatic dolphins as they interact with the other swimmers – a delight to behold. The experience is not just limited to the dolphins though; the entire three and a half hour open sea adventure is inspirationally beautiful. Enjoy the sea breeze in your hair and the taste of salt on your lips as you look out for other marine life, such as Albatross, New Zealand Fur Seals, and occasionally even an Orca or two.

Dolphin Encounter are unique in that they have the highest rate of success for both locating and swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. Dolphin Encounter has attained the Enviro Gold Qualmark rating, meaning that they have been endorsed as a Qualmark visitor activity. Don't forget, swimming with dolphins in the open ocean can be demanding; you will need to have a reasonable level of snorkelling experience, good water confidence and swimming ability to participate. Dolphin Encounter provide snorkelling equipment and wetsuits on the day, so all you need to bring are swimmers, towel, warm clothing, camera and daypack.

Location

What you need to know

Inclusions
  • Swimmers are fitted with a good quality wetsuit prior to departure which comprises a full 5mm body one piece overall and a 5mm jacket.
  • We also provide a hood, mask snorkel and fins.
Time
  • 8:30am - October and early November
  • 5:30am, 8:30am and 12:30pm - Mid November to April
  • 8:30am and 12:30pm - May
  • Once daily in Winter at 10:00am - June to September
Duration
  • The time on the boat at sea is approximately 2.5 hours depending on the location of the dolphins.
  • Generally if the dolphins are interactive the swim time can be from 20 to 40 minutes.
Location
  • 96 Esplanade Kaikōura, Canterbury 7300 New Zealand
What To Bring
  • Wear warm clothing and sensible footwear
  • bring sea sickness medication with you if you are prone to motion sickness. Sea Legs (medication) and ginger tablets are available at reception.
  • Swimsuit and towel
  • small bag which is able to accommodate your clothing on board the boat.
  • sunblock and a sunhat
  • If you have forgotten to bring your swimsuit, we have a limited number of swimsuits available for hire, so please enquire at the check in counter.
Additional Information
  • Go Pro waterproof video cameras are available for hire for an additional cost. If you have your own Go Pro there are a variety of accessories available for hire too.
  • Minimum age for dolphin swim is 8 years (kids must be accompanied by an adult swimmer & the minimum age can be increased at captain's discretion if the conditions are not suitable)
  • Minimum age for watching is 3 years (this can be increased at captain's discretion if the conditions are not suitable)
  • Dolphin Encounter's vessels are purpose built & fitted with boat shower hoses and toilets. The cabin is heated and blankets are available onboard each vessel. There are changing rooms and hot showers at the operating base
  • Due to the seasonal nature of this operation, there is a heavy demand for these tours throughout the busy tourist season - November to April. It is recommended that bookings be made well in advance during this period
  • Encounter Kaikoura boasts an on-site cafe with great coffee, beautiful food & breathtaking views. Cafe Encounter is open for breakfast, lunch & casual dining throughout the day. The cafe is fully licenced, so why not pop in & sample some local beers & wines, our homemade baking & other tasty treats before or after your tour
  • All tours are subject to suitable weather conditions. Please note that the sea conditions can change very quickly along the Kaikoura coast at little notice
  • If you are susceptible to motion sickness we recommend taking medication prior to your trip. It is recommended that you visit a pharmacy ahead of your tour. If this is not possible, Encounter Kaikoura have some options available at tour check in
  • Minimum numbers required for tour to go ahead
Booking Information
  • Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
  • Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
  • Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
  • Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
  • For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
  • We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements