Dolphins Cruise in Kaikoura
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August 2026
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Highlighted reviews
Best thing you can do in Nz
Tres belle experience et belle excursion
What you can expect
Experience the thrill of Kaikoura's marine life with Dolphin Encounter, where you can watch the playful Dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. Found year-round off the coast, these highly intelligent and social creatures are known for their acrobatic displays and curious nature, making them a joy to observe.
The three-and-a-half-hour cruise is more than just a dolphin-watching experience. As you sail through the open sea, you'll be surrounded by stunning ocean views, with the fresh sea breeze in your hair and the taste of salt on your lips. Keep your eyes peeled for other marine wildlife, such as the majestic Albatross and playful New Zealand Fur Seals.
Dolphin Encounter is renowned for their high success rate in locating dolphins, ensuring you have the best possible chance to see these remarkable creatures. With an Enviro Gold Qualmark rating, Dolphin Encounter is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism making this an unforgettable experience.
Location
What you need to know
- Dolphin Tour & complete guided commentary
- A high success rate for seeing dolphins!
- Allow 4 hours
- 5:30am, 8.30am & 12.30pm (November - May)
- 10.00am (June - September)
- 8:30am only (October)
- Departs from the Encounter Kaikoura office (15 minute walk from town centre)
- Operates daily all year (excluding 25th December)
- Does the Dolphin Encounter boat have wheelchair access? Due to having limited space on the boat, there is no Wheelchair access
- Children must be at least 3 years old to watch, though the captain may raise the minimum age if conditions are deemed unsafe.
- Dolphin Encounter vessels are specially designed, equipped with onboard toilets, a heated cabin, and blankets for added comfort.
- Due to high demand during the peak tourist season from November to April, it's strongly advised to book your tour well in advance.
- Encounter Kaikoura features a charming on-site cafe offering delicious coffee, delightful food, and stunning views. Cafe Encounter serves breakfast, lunch, and casual meals throughout the day, and is fully licensed, making it the perfect spot to enjoy local beers, wines, homemade treats, and more before or after your tour.
- All tours depend on favourable weather conditions. Keep in mind that sea conditions along the Kaikoura coast can change rapidly with little warning. If you're prone to motion sickness, it's advisable to take medication beforehand, which you can obtain from a pharmacy before your tour.
- If you would like to do the swim instead, have a look at the Dolphin Swim option
- Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
- Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
- Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience
Recent reviews
Best thing you can do in Nz
Review for Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura Swim
Tres belle experience et belle excursion
Review for Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura Swim
Awesome adventure! The crew were so attentive, great communication and an excellent operation from start to finish. My whanau loved the whole experience.
Review for Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura Swim
