Dolphin Encounter
Dolphin Encounter
5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
One of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in the wild! We operate on the dolphins' terms. Swim with the dolphins in their natural environment or watch their acrobatic displays form the comfort of the boat.
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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5.0
1,527 reviews
Excellent
1,403
Very good
86
Average
21
Poor
10
Terrible
7
Jim P
Vancouver, Canada18 contributions
Feb 2020
The pre-dawn arrival to gear up in wet suit, flippers and mask, was definitely worth getting up early for. After an instruction and safety video we were off to find the dolphins. The crew warn that we may not see any dolphins, as it is up to the dolphins.
Watching the sunrise was an added bonus, as all eyes were watching for our first sighting of the dolphins. It didn't take long before they appeared and we were in the water. Dolphins were all around performing tricks and swimming in circles. We had a second encounter after moving a little further up the coast. More dolphins were in the water as we again swam with them. We had a third encounter with these magnificent, playful animals.
During the morning sun, before heading back, we had the good fortune to see seals along the shoreline.
The tour is well worth the expense and should be booked well in advance as this tour is often sold out.
Watching the sunrise was an added bonus, as all eyes were watching for our first sighting of the dolphins. It didn't take long before they appeared and we were in the water. Dolphins were all around performing tricks and swimming in circles. We had a second encounter after moving a little further up the coast. More dolphins were in the water as we again swam with them. We had a third encounter with these magnificent, playful animals.
During the morning sun, before heading back, we had the good fortune to see seals along the shoreline.
The tour is well worth the expense and should be booked well in advance as this tour is often sold out.
Written 5 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Liz N
Inver Grove Heights, MN290 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
It is true that you are going to see hundreds of dolphins on your excursion. And we thought that was absolutely amazing. Frankly all five of us thought viewing was best from the boat; the swimming with the dolphins can be checked off your list as far as a cool thing, but viewing them was actually better on the boat. So the two of us who swam actually preferred our views above water, especially as the clarity of the water is not particularly good.
Staff was incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable. They are passionate and love these animals. We were also lucky to see an albatross or two. From what was promised, I couldn’t rate these folks lower than a four dot, but see below for why I would not do this again.
Warnings: The dawn boat ride is apparently more peaceful but of course your problem with that is it’s going to be even more freezing than it already is. In the afternoon, the swells were large and the boat is small. Even on a nice sunny day. There were many, many people puking, crying, complaining on our boat. Unfortunately they also weren’t very smart about handling their illness and preferred to stay inside, vomiting into buckets. Staff was not assertive enough to them to get outside (they should’ve said immediately before we left the dock – the chances of you getting seasick are good, you WILL move outside if you begin to vomit). It really put a downer on the atmosphere for the rest of us who actually took our Dramamine before getting on the boat (oh, and should you take some before getting on the boat? Oh heck yes you should).
Staff was well prepared for this illness spree, as there were warnings before we got on the boat about the sea sickness level, multiple buckets and hoses ready to go to rinse out, and ginger cookies. They should’ve brought out the ginger cookies about two hours ahead of time. Also staff really probably should’ve cut our trip shorter. They go too long even at the best of times – swimming with the dolphins really only needs to happen once or twice. Instead they found four different spots chasing the pod around for hours, and then they parked to look at and talk about the dolphins. The excursion dragged on, even for those of us who felt fine.
They would be wise to take a cue from those on board as to whether or not they are done. Then they should radio ahead for their bus to pick us up, and they should head back. So many miserable people kind of ruined it for the rest of us, but even if they weren’t there – the trip went long. I don’t feel the need to do it again, but I would consider this company for a whale watching cruise, especially if they adjust some of their rigidity to their timeline.
Staff was incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable. They are passionate and love these animals. We were also lucky to see an albatross or two. From what was promised, I couldn’t rate these folks lower than a four dot, but see below for why I would not do this again.
Warnings: The dawn boat ride is apparently more peaceful but of course your problem with that is it’s going to be even more freezing than it already is. In the afternoon, the swells were large and the boat is small. Even on a nice sunny day. There were many, many people puking, crying, complaining on our boat. Unfortunately they also weren’t very smart about handling their illness and preferred to stay inside, vomiting into buckets. Staff was not assertive enough to them to get outside (they should’ve said immediately before we left the dock – the chances of you getting seasick are good, you WILL move outside if you begin to vomit). It really put a downer on the atmosphere for the rest of us who actually took our Dramamine before getting on the boat (oh, and should you take some before getting on the boat? Oh heck yes you should).
Staff was well prepared for this illness spree, as there were warnings before we got on the boat about the sea sickness level, multiple buckets and hoses ready to go to rinse out, and ginger cookies. They should’ve brought out the ginger cookies about two hours ahead of time. Also staff really probably should’ve cut our trip shorter. They go too long even at the best of times – swimming with the dolphins really only needs to happen once or twice. Instead they found four different spots chasing the pod around for hours, and then they parked to look at and talk about the dolphins. The excursion dragged on, even for those of us who felt fine.
They would be wise to take a cue from those on board as to whether or not they are done. Then they should radio ahead for their bus to pick us up, and they should head back. So many miserable people kind of ruined it for the rest of us, but even if they weren’t there – the trip went long. I don’t feel the need to do it again, but I would consider this company for a whale watching cruise, especially if they adjust some of their rigidity to their timeline.
Written 13 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanne F
Melbourne, Australia139 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
We only did the spectating. Swimming was booked out but we have 10 and 8 year old so snorkelling may have been an issue, particularly for our 8 year old. There were so many dolphins jumping around everywhere. We went to 4 different spots. The boat moves around to where the most amount of dolphins are. The swimmers on our boat didn’t do a lot to keep the dolphins overly interested so we moved a few times. At the end, we waited for the swimmers to change and stayed to watch the dolphins play around. For me, the boat was rocking a lot, but I am not good on boats. Once the boat started heading back to shore, I felt better. Our guides were great.
Written 15 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
B.Sim
Singapore, Singapore81 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We swam with the dolphins on a cold and choppy morning.
The dolphins were a joy to behold, but the 20ish minute boat ride in rough seas caused several participants to feel sea sick.
swimming with the dolphins in such water conditions was challenging as it was a bit too rough to snorkel. The cloudy skies also affected the visibility in the water.
But the photos from the deck were amazing as the dolphins were playful and curious, performing flips, flops and jumps as we swam with them.
The staff were well trained and accommodated the participants with everything from blankets, hot cocoa, tea and snacks. They were also attentive performing a constant count of swimmers in the water and on deck.
Highly recommended.
The dolphins were a joy to behold, but the 20ish minute boat ride in rough seas caused several participants to feel sea sick.
swimming with the dolphins in such water conditions was challenging as it was a bit too rough to snorkel. The cloudy skies also affected the visibility in the water.
But the photos from the deck were amazing as the dolphins were playful and curious, performing flips, flops and jumps as we swam with them.
The staff were well trained and accommodated the participants with everything from blankets, hot cocoa, tea and snacks. They were also attentive performing a constant count of swimmers in the water and on deck.
Highly recommended.
Written 14 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andy M
39 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Dolphin encounter was amazing on so many levels. If you are lucky enough to experience this, YOU MUST!! Book in advance as this encounter is very popular and it’s obvious why, we was up close and personal with the dusky dolphins which they loved just as much as us. On the 9th January we was placed in a pod of 100+ dolphins and if your not afraid to make stupid loud sounds you have the dolphins spinning around you, jumping above you. in their own natural environment loving every second of it.
Written 9 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tanilla
London, UK25 contributions
Jan 2020
You are told to get there early and then spend a lot of time sitting around. They book too many people in one sitting, which means you wait a long time before getting on the bus to take you to the vessel. The staff aren’t particularly friendly and they herd you through getting equipment. I even heard one member of staff say ‘it’s like herding cattle’ which it was. Once on board the vessel it becomes much better. The staff are friendly and very efficient. The health and safety and organisation is professional. However we were surprised at the number of people who had limited experience of snorkelling and therefore in the water kept bumping into you. Nonetheless the actual experience of swimming in a pod of dolphins is amazing.
Written 11 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
amandmb
Ohio27 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Amazing experience! The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and the dolphins were incredible. We made four jumps off the boats into the pods and swam around with them until they left, then we would board the boat and go to the next area. The time flew by! Definitely take a motion sickness pill! We had about 7/16 people throwing up on our boat due to the waves. Even if you do okay with boating, I would still take one as a precaution.
Definitely don’t miss the cafe once you get back! Wonderful meals that were gluten and dairy free!
Definitely don’t miss the cafe once you get back! Wonderful meals that were gluten and dairy free!
Written 19 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SGFFCA
Loughborough, UK75 contributions
Feb 2020
Had a great time swimming with wild dolphins on this three hour trip. Lost count of the number of dolphins seen bow wave riding, leaping around and seriously out swimming this bloke. After around half an hour swimming I decided to watch from the boat. Some of the 16 other swimmers spent longer in the water, but the water was a little cloudy making it difficult to keep track of the dolphins around us, while remembering to snorkel, breathe and take photos.
A highly recommended tour. The only downside was the time spent kitting up and travelling to the boat, approx 1 hour before the action starts.
A highly recommended tour. The only downside was the time spent kitting up and travelling to the boat, approx 1 hour before the action starts.
Written 14 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anika
1 contribution
Sept 2020
The Dolphin Encounter was an absolute highlight of my trip around New Zealand and one of the best experiences of my life. We travelled south along the beautiful Kaikoura coast to join a large pod of very inquisitive and playful dusky dolphins. Once we had caught up with the dolphins, we got into the water with them. A little nervous at first, I relaxed into the experience, thanks to the reassurance of the very competent and friendly crew. I loved it so much and ended up being one of the last ones to come back onboard, not wanting for the experience to end. The dolphins came up close and stayed around for the entire time of our swim (45min). It was sheer joy to experience these magnificent creatures in their own environment and on their own terms. After the swim we watched the dolphins doing backflips and somersaults from the boat and followed the pod for a little while longer before turning back for the harbour. On the way back we got to enjoy the stunning coastline once more and the crew pointed out other wildlife (seals and birds) along the way. The encounter could not have been any better and I can't recommend it enough. I would definitely do it again and hope that one day I will.
Written 8 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sounds like you have amazing stamina! So glad you had such a magical experience and when one day comes we look forward to welcoming you back! :-)
Written 5 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sophie B
4 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
I went on the sunrise dolphin encounter experience and it did not disappoint with five swims surrounded by these beautiful creatures. From arrival the staff are professional and informative making sure you both feel well informed, safe and understand the importance of following their instructions to ensure the safety of the dolphins and yourself as a passenger. It is definitely worth every penny, you will not be disappointed.
Written 7 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, planning to do this activity this coming summer. We are all swimmers but don’t have much experience in open waters. Are there life jackets available for the less confident?
Written 15 September 2022
Are babies allowed? (6 month old in a front pack)
Written 27 June 2021
Hello,
We want to swim with dolphins the 22!of january but we want to know which time you prefer? At 5:30 or 8:30 in the morning?
Written 27 November 2019
Hi great you are planning to join us aboard!
We are fortunate to enjoy a success rate of over 90% on all our tours! There is not too much difference between the two departures, our crew favour the early morning tour at 5.30am as the sea is 'typically' calmer earlier in the day (please note this is a general and not an absolute rule)
We look forward to seeing you whichever time you choose!
Be sure to book well ahead as we often sell out well in advance in summer!
Written 13 December 2019
Hi . Planning to do the dolphin watch tour on the 8th nov. Is the 8:30 slot better than the 12:30 slot for watching dolphins ?thanks
Written 29 October 2019
Hi,
Sorry iv'e seen your message only now.
hope u had a great time
Written 19 November 2019
Hi Gil, Exactly as Bob said (thanks Bob!) if you know your schedule book as far ahead as you can to secure your preferred departure :-) You can make change (subject to availability) or cancellation up until 4pm the day prior to the tour without charge. We look forward to welcoming you aboard! :-)
Written 11 October 2019
How long is the trip take? I choose swim and watch with dolphin at 5.30 check in time
Written 24 May 2019
We suggest your allow around 3.5-4 hours for the tour - we look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Written 25 May 2019
We are traveling in May ..8 th of May 2019 .. will it be possible for us to do this trip ?
We are average swimmers .
Written 18 April 2019
It deepends on the weather on this day, but when it is ok you will be able to do this trip and i think you will enjoy it.
Written 19 April 2019
Hi , we are traveling to kaikuora on 25 april2019. Is it a good time to do this activity
Written 28 March 2019
Hello thanks for your interest and thanks to all the contributors above! Everything they said is accurate; we do operate year round weather permitting. At this stage we do still have availability on the 25th April, but this is of course subject to change. We hope to receive a booking and to welcome you aboard! :-)
Written 29 March 2019
We are off to Kaikoura in October. Is it worth doing both the Whale Watching tour & the Dolphin Encounter? We want to swim with the dolphins but can you can see whales too...or are each experiences unique & only do what they say they do?
Thanks
Written 12 September 2018
We saw some whales from the dolphin boat but I don’t know if that Halle a every time. The dolphin swim is worth it
Written 16 September 2018
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