Swimming with Wild Dolphins in Akaroa
Overview
Akaroa Harbour offers a unique opportunity to swim with the rare Hector Dolphins and explore stunning landscapes on a small-group cruise. Operated by a locally-owned family business, this adventure caters to a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring a personal and intimate experience. Enjoy breathtaking volcanic scenery and spot various wildlife, including the White Flippered Penguins and NZ Fur Seals. Departing from the uncrowded Daly's Wharf, this tour runs from October to April, promising a thrilling encounter with nature in New Zealand's beautiful South Island.
- Steve is the owner & skipper is a 5th generation local
- Small-group tours limited to 12 guests for an exclusive experience
- Swim with Hector Dolphins and explore diverse marine wildlife
- Scenic cruise showcasing Akaroa’s volcanic history and breathtaking views
- Operates from October 1st to April 30th with safety as a top priority
What's Included
- Tea and coffee Coffee and/or Tea
- English Guide
Meeting Location
Rue Balguerie
Banks Peninsula, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Embark on a 2.5-hour adventure through the stunning Akaroa Harbour, where you’ll connect with nature and wildlife in an eco-friendly, small-group dolphin swim tour 12 guests maximum. After a thorough safety briefing, including how to behave respectfully around dolphins, we’ll explore the submerged volcanic caldera that makes Akaroa so unique.
While we seek out the rare Hector’s dolphins, one of the world’s smallest and most endangered species, you’ll also learn about the region’s rich volcanic and Māori history. Expect to see abundant wildlife — from New Zealand fur seals and white-fronted terns to the occasional albatross or cormorant.
Once we find curious dolphins, we’ll guide you into the water and endeavour to gain that swim experience for you, where you can connect with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Afterward, relax with a hot chocolate and biscuit as we take you through the Akaroa Marine Reserve, showcasing stunning cliffs and breathtaking views.
While the dolphin swim is the highlight, we’re committed to offering a complete tour, sharing the region’s natural beauty and rich history, all in an eco-conscious way.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(9)Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-449251P4
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
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As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Swimming with Wild Dolphins in Akaroa. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Tea and coffee. Coffee and/or Tea.
- English Guide.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Swimming with Wild Dolphins in Akaroa is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Swimming with Wild Dolphins in Akaroa will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Tea and coffeeCoffee and/or Tea
- English Guide
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
