Dolphin & Whale Watching in Whakatāne

THE BEST Whakatāne Dolphin & Whale Watching

Dolphin & Whale Watching in Whakatāne

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What travellers are saying

  • _kjvthompson
    Tauranga, New Zealand10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We took three of our grandchildren on the boat trip to Moutohora Island yesterday. It was a beautiful day and Tania, Mac and Fiona looked after us very well, sharing their knowledge about the Island. We were delighted to get a really good look at a Tuatara and fleeting glimpses of Tieke. The grandchildren also had a great time trying to dig a hot water pool.
    Written 17 April 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • sarahjay
    Rotorua, New Zealand3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is hands down one of the coolest experiences I’ve had! Everyone was so friendly and helpful, right from the start we knew we were in good hands. The dolphins were amazing and spending the better part of a day on the boat was so perfect. We saw a shark, flying fish and a couple of tuna. Whale Island is beautiful and the water was so warm. There were even baby dolphins and seals! 10/10 recommend! We will be coming back another time for sure.
    Written 8 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sn0wman
    Cannock149 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    I've heard from many people that swimming with dolphins is a wonderful experience. Likewise I've heard that the warm, calm and clear waters off the North Island's east coast is the place to do it.

    However, my track record on whale and dolphin trips was 0 for 2. Apparently there was even a pod of dolphins in Milford Sound - the day before we were there.

    So, it was with mixed optimism that I booked on this trip to swim with dolphins. Apparently the hit rate was 95% - pretty good odds, with December being a favourable time.

    At the base we were kitted out in wet suits and flippers, before slapping on a load of sun tan oil. The morning conditions had been perfect, but by the afternoon the wind and swell had picked up a bit.

    Our party consisted of around 10 people which allowed the company to take out their high-speed boat. The boat was in good condition and the crew were very competent. Combining a high-speed boat with a bit of swell makes for a very exciting ride and we were soon out into the known dolphin areas.

    However, the dolphins had other ideas. Despite the best efforts of the crew, the nearest we got was a fleeting glimpse of an dorsal fin. What we did see was lots of diving birds, a spectacle by itself.

    Whilst it was disappointing to be part of that 5%, and going 0 for 3, the companies policy for not inducing dolphin encounters and minimising interference has to be applauded. We were offered a voucher for another trip the next day - but it was time to catch a plane home. Maybe next time...
    Written 31 January 2008
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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