Ecoseaker
5
Swim with DolphinsBoat ToursEco ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Dolphin Swimming and Harbour Cruise Adventures. Small Professional Family Company 100% Locally Owned & Operated. Only 12 Guests On Each Tour. Personal Experience. Free Dolphin Swimming Photos.
Akaroa, New Zealand
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2023
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(54 reviews)
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
686 reviews
Excellent
668
Very good
11
Average
0
Poor
4
Terrible
3
ks2
Devon, England42 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Had a great morning on the water creating incredible memories. Saw lots of dolphins and enjoyed the epic scenery. The wet suits kept us really warm and buoyant and Steve’s excellent local knowledge made the whole trip really interesting. Well worth the money and reassuringly safety and eco conscious. Thanks.
Written 27 November 2023
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.
Thank you very much for an absolutely lovely review 😊
I love that you found the whole trip interesting, safe and eco friendly.
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
remomueller
Brunnen, Switzerland1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
Steve and his team are amazing. Being a local, Steve possesses an in-depth understanding of the area, skillfully navigating the waters to uncover the best spots for swimming with dolphins. Our experience aboard their impressive boat was nothing short of extraordinary, set against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery. The kids were enthralled, and so were we. Without hesitation, we highly recommend this unforgettable adventure.
Written 16 November 2023
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.
Thank you for your review and highly recommending it as an unforgettable adventure😁
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Moondust04
Canberra, Australia17 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
I can't rave about this experience enough! The experience was so much better with a small family owned company with a true passion for conserving the environment and protecting the dolphins. I can't thank you enough for making it possible for mum to join us on the boat and the care you took of her while we were having the time of our lives in the water. What a magical place and an unforgettable experience. Thank you!
Written 15 November 2023
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.
Thank you very much for an absolutely lovely review 😊
It was a pleasure to have you out with us and mum was a joy to talk to.
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Safari08052741306
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Friends
Amazing tour! Very nice guides.
We saw the dolphins up close as well as seals and some sea birds. Great panorama.
We saw the dolphins up close as well as seals and some sea birds. Great panorama.
Written 14 November 2023
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.
Thank you very much for a lovely review 😊
It was a pleasure to have you out with us.
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Voyage31115994691
Nelson, New Zealand1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Solo
Thank you Steve and Beth for a great day out. Felt so welcomed, cared for and excited to be on the water. Great environmental, ecological and historical chat.
We saw dolphins! They played with the boat, and when we hopped in three of them swam between us. Delicious hot chocolate and a nice vibe. Thank you
We saw dolphins! They played with the boat, and when we hopped in three of them swam between us. Delicious hot chocolate and a nice vibe. Thank you
Written 4 November 2023
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.
Thank you very much for a lovely review 😊
I'm very pleased you like the vibe of what we do and how we do it 😁
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joe G
Tel Aviv, Israel6 contributions
Feb 2023
The dolphins didn't come near us when we went in the water...
If the company really thought there's a good chance dolphins approach you in the water, they would offer a partial refund when they don't...
We did see dolphins swim by the boat, which was cool..
But I would recommend taking a regular dolphin cruise with another company
If the company really thought there's a good chance dolphins approach you in the water, they would offer a partial refund when they don't...
We did see dolphins swim by the boat, which was cool..
But I would recommend taking a regular dolphin cruise with another company
Written 12 July 2023
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 there,
I'm very sorry you feel this way, we are very clear that we do not have a refund policy which you would have known when booking with us and that we are working with wild endangered dolphins in their natural habitat, so we cannot control them and neither can you.
Everything is up to the dolphins, as it should be when working with wildlife, all we do is our absolute best to gain an encounter with them in the water and give you an all round top experience of our area, scenery and its other wildlife.
Compared to other companies we don't have a refund policy because we go out longer which means we incur more costs for staff, maintenance and fuel, and these are big expenses.
Because we have more time out there we do have a higher chance to have an encounter with them and our success rate is very high and higher than other companies around NZ.
All the best for your travels
Warm regards
Steve.
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eugene S
1 contribution
Apr 2023 • Solo
Wonderful and beautiful trip! Steve is very experienced and have a good sense of humor. The dolphins are beautiful and amazing beings. The water is cold at 13 degrees but the wet suit is superb. Good taste of cold therapy!
Written 4 May 2023
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.
Thank you very much for a lovely review 😊
I'm glad you enjoyed my sense of humour and the cold plunge 😆
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jess
New Zealand1 contribution
Apr 2023 • Couples
An awesome experience, I would 100% recommend choosing Ecoseaker for dolphin swimming in Akaroa!
Both Steve and Dani were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. The boat was small but it meant you had a much more personal and private experience, and were able to lean off the side of the boat to get that much closer to see the dolphins! There was plenty of space on the boat to stay comfortable, and the equipment was of high quality. (To nervous swimmers: the wetsuits were so thick that they kept you warm and afloat).
Another good thing to note is that they are a small, local family business, and one that has gifted land to DOC and championed for the conservation of the wildlife in the area - so it felt good to know that our money was going to them and to keeping the dolphins going!
As well as swimming with the dolphins, we were able to see a white flippered penguin and many fur seals.
We were recommended Ecoseaker from family that did the experience in December 2022, and would definitely continue recommending the Ecoseaker for other family and friends.
Both Steve and Dani were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. The boat was small but it meant you had a much more personal and private experience, and were able to lean off the side of the boat to get that much closer to see the dolphins! There was plenty of space on the boat to stay comfortable, and the equipment was of high quality. (To nervous swimmers: the wetsuits were so thick that they kept you warm and afloat).
Another good thing to note is that they are a small, local family business, and one that has gifted land to DOC and championed for the conservation of the wildlife in the area - so it felt good to know that our money was going to them and to keeping the dolphins going!
As well as swimming with the dolphins, we were able to see a white flippered penguin and many fur seals.
We were recommended Ecoseaker from family that did the experience in December 2022, and would definitely continue recommending the Ecoseaker for other family and friends.
Written 12 April 2023
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.
Thank you very much for an absolutely lovely comprehensive review 😊
It was a pleasure to have you come out with us.
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
charmersnzl
Auckland Central, New Zealand18 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
We were a group of 5, including 2 teenagers. The day was rainy and overcast, and we were a bit nervous at first but Steve and Dani put us at ease - they were very knowledgeable and prepped us well. You can tell they really care about the marine life. It was an amazing and invigorating experience to be swimming with the dolphins cavorting around us, and we got a few good pics of the experience to share with others. Thanks for sharing the day and your knowledge with us Steve and Dani.
Written 10 April 2023
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.
Thank you for the review and I'm very pleased we could put you at ease.
It was our pleasure to share the day and our knowledge with you😊
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John
1 contribution
Apr 2023 • Family
An amazing trip, ages 11-56 in our party and every one of us enjoyed it.
Steve & Danny operate a fantastic trip, safety comes first, but then it's a relaxing informative trip. Local info on Steve's family's early involvement in local eco preservation. Great insight into volcanic history and rock formations as we cruised along spotting a penguin, seals, numerous birds including massive albatross and then the dolphins. We spotted numerous pods and were able to swim in a couple of areas where dolphins approached us and swam close by our group.
Danny provided great info throughout our trip, helped everyone in and out the water and finished with hot chocolate and biscuits as we turned for home.
I'll definitely book with EcoSEAker next time.
We'd originally booked with a larger company, but they cancelled on us at short notice on the day.
Steve squeezed us in and this turned out to be the best result for our party. We got the perfect trip we wanted, local company, small group, great boat, 5mm+ wetsuits and boots (nice & warm), fantastic hosts, Steve and Danny give 100% and free to download photos online by the end of the day (available to download for 1 month). Thank you for a great day....
Steve & Danny operate a fantastic trip, safety comes first, but then it's a relaxing informative trip. Local info on Steve's family's early involvement in local eco preservation. Great insight into volcanic history and rock formations as we cruised along spotting a penguin, seals, numerous birds including massive albatross and then the dolphins. We spotted numerous pods and were able to swim in a couple of areas where dolphins approached us and swam close by our group.
Danny provided great info throughout our trip, helped everyone in and out the water and finished with hot chocolate and biscuits as we turned for home.
I'll definitely book with EcoSEAker next time.
We'd originally booked with a larger company, but they cancelled on us at short notice on the day.
Steve squeezed us in and this turned out to be the best result for our party. We got the perfect trip we wanted, local company, small group, great boat, 5mm+ wetsuits and boots (nice & warm), fantastic hosts, Steve and Danny give 100% and free to download photos online by the end of the day (available to download for 1 month). Thank you for a great day....
Written 2 April 2023
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.
Thank you very much for an absolutely lovely review 😊
It was a pleasure to have your group come out with us.
Warm regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming
Akaroa New Zealand
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrea A
2 contributions
How can I get there from Christchurch?
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
The only bus that works with our times is the Akaroa Shuttle. You will have to book that yourself through their website.
The bus usually gets here by 10.30am.
Please advise the bus driver on the day that you are booked with us at 10.30am this way he won’t take too long coming over the hill.
The first bus stop in Akaroa by the museum is where you need to come off.
From there cross the road and turn right into Rue Balguerie at the concert by the information Centre. We are at the end if the road directly by the waterfront.
Kind Regards, Kerstin Hamilton
We arrive tomorrow 20/1 (2pers), any places left?
Best regards
Chris & Amelie (Sweden)
Ps! We just have this day, then my daughter (20 years) is going back to Australia and I’m going back to Sweden.
Christer Hoffren
+46 733667077
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Hi Chris and Amelie,
Sorry we are full until Tuesday and have availability again on Wednesday.
I'm not sure if you called or emailed through our website but these are the two best ways to contact us.
We only received this message from tripadvisor last night.
Sorry we couldn't accommodate you.
Kind regards
Steve
Owner/Captain.
_bpingram001
Gillingham, UK2 contributions
We are coming into Akaroa on the Radiance of the Seas on Monday 22nd January 2018 and would love to take part in the swimming with dolphins experience, Could you advise if you have any spaces for two adults? Be good to know the price and whether we could book the trip before we go out. Thanks for your help
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Hi there,
Thank you for your enquiry.
We do have space on the 22nd of January and would advise to book it well before arriving in Akaroa as our tours are exclusively limited to 12 guests per tour. Price per adult is $165pp.
You can find all of the information you need on our website and can book there as well. ecoseaker.nz
Kind regards
Steve
Owner/Captain
Jason N
Seoul, South Korea70 contributions
Hello,
We are very interested in booking your swim with the Dolphins tour when we visit on a Celebrity cruise ship in December. How far away from where the cruise ships anchor are you? Are you near the docking/tender location? Thank you!
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Hi there,
Thank you for your enquiry.
We are a 10 minute walk from the Main Wharf to Daly's Wharf, allow 15 to be safe, but is really not far at all :)
See the location tab on our website.
We look forward to your booking.
Kind regards
Steve Hamilton
Owner/Captain
mirike123
New South Wales, Australia155 contributions
We would like to book 2 adults for 4th February. Any chance for just the adventure cruise....?
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Thank you for your booking and we look forward to meeting you.
Imahass
Brisbane, Australia17 contributions
Want to book for 2 adult watchers and 1 child (14 yo) swimmer on the 18th January. Is there any availabiltiy?
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Hi there,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
We only have one seat available on the 18th of January, but we have availability on either the 17th or 19th of January.
Please contact us on 0800 326 794 or dolphins@ecoseaker.nz to make a booing. Kind Regards, Kerstin
Rachlauch
Christchurch, New Zealand2 contributions
Will you be operating Thurs 7th Jan 2016, and can my partner also come for the trip (but as a spectator only?)
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Thank you for your enquiry.
Yes we will be operating on the 7th of January 2016 and yes definitely your partner can come as a watcher.
I have just checked our bookings and noticed you have made a booking already.
We look forward to meeting you then :)
Warm regards Steve- Owner/Captain
angiespange
Midlands2 contributions
How much is this trip? Is it booked up? I'm coming tomorrow
EcoseakerAkaroa
1 contribution
Hi Angie,
Sorry we haven't answered your question earlier we didn't operate on Monday as we have had a bereavement in the family and had to organise things so my wife and 9 month old son could fly home to Germany to attend the funeral.
It's great that John answered having already been out on the tour with us, thanks John :)
If you are still in the area please phone me on 0800 ecoswim (326 794) to make a booking.
Kind regards Steve.
Owner/Skipper