Port
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$280
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Imagine being eye to eye with a dusky dolphin! Kaikoura is the best place in New Zealand to swim with the most acrobatic of all dolphin species – the dusky dolphins.
It is something incredibly special that these wild animals choose to stop and engage 1:1 with swimmers in the water. Dusky dolphins are probably the most interactive dolphin species; we don’t know why, and this sense of mystery makes the engagement with them all the more extraordinary!
Often described as a life-changing experience; snorkeling with the pod will leave you with lasting magical memories.
We will introduce you to the world of the dusky dolphins and know that you will leave Kaikoura with a renewed sense of awe for the natural environment. The grace, beauty and curiosity of these sociable and acrobatic dolphins will take your breath away! Either of the tour options we offer, whether it is swimming with the dolphins or watching the dolphins, are renowned as world class experiences.
The dusky dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) belongs to a group known as cetaceans and includes all whales, dolphins and porpoises. The word cetacean is derived from the Latin, cetus (a large sea animal) and the Greek, ketos (sea monster).
Currently there are 92 recognised species of cetacean comprising of 11 species of baleen whale and 70 species of toothed whales which includes all dolphins and porpoises. The dolphin family known as delphinidae, is made up of 33 different members.
Please Note:
A good level of water confidence is strongly recommended and previous snorkelling experience is an advantage. Flotation devices like kickboards and buoyancy aids if a little extra assistance is needed. Please note that our crew do not enter the water on our tours. It is advisable to wear warm clothing and sensible footwear when checking in for the tour. Before departure, all swimmers will be supplied with a well-fitted wetsuit to ensure that throughout the swim they are as warm and comfortable as possible. You will be able to change back into your warm clothing at the conclusion of the swim before returning to the harbour. Operation of tour is subject to suitable weather and sea conditions. Minimum age is 8 years.