Private Kaikōura Dolphin Swim Tour from Christchurch

7:30 AM – Christchurch Pick-Up

Meet your guide at your inner-city Christchurch accommodation and travel north through Canterbury farmland and the Hundalee Hills.

Scenic Kaikōura Coast

Follow the coastline towards Kaikōura, with views of the Pacific Ocean and the Seaward Kaikōura Range. Wildlife may be seen from the road, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Early Lunch in Kaikōura

Enjoy an included café lunch before preparing for the afternoon marine experience.

Dolphin Encounter Briefing

Meet the Dolphin Encounter team for a safety briefing and equipment fitting. Swimmers receive a wetsuit, hood, mask, snorkel and fins.

Swim with Wild Dusky Dolphins

Travel by purpose-built boat into the open ocean and enter the water when conditions and dolphin behaviour allow. The dolphins are entirely wild, and the encounter takes place on their terms.

Actual swim time varies with sea conditions, travel time and dolphin activity. When the dolphins are interactive, swimmers generally spend around 20–30 minutes in the water.

Kaikōura Coastal Sightseeing

After the swim, spend time viewing Kaikōura’s coastline and learning about the town’s marine environment, Māori heritage and whaling history.

5:45 PM – Christchurch Return

Relax on the private return journey to your Christchurch accommodation.

The marine experience is weather dependent and may be changed or cancelled at short notice if sea conditions are unsuitable.