Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura
Q&As
Latest Questions about Dolphin Encounter (Kaikoura)
Are the chances good of seeing Dolphins at the beginning of May?
Comments
Hello, we would like to know if it is still available to swim with dolphins on saturday 15 march or sunday 05:30 for 2 persons?
Hi,
your description is saying that people need to be experienced in snorkling to do the dolphin swim adventure.
I haven't done much snorkling in my life.
Is it still possible to joyn the dolphin swim tour knowing that I might not be able to keep eyes under water to watch the dolphins for very long if I can't manage the snorkeling?
Or is it somehow dangerous not being able to snorkel?
Best regards, Franziska
Comments
You will need to have a reasonable level of snorkelling experience, good water confidence and swimming ability to participate. This is due to the fact that swimming in the ocean can be demanding. They have experienced guides who will be able to help if needed as well! Alternatively, there is the option to "Watch" this is a spectating ticket where you will still be able to go out on the boat for close encounter without getting in the water.
I’d like to swim with dolphins on Wednesday Feb 26 at 12:30. Is there still space or is the swim with dolphin sold out and only boat ride portion available?
How long does the Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura take?
Comments
We say to allow 3 hours for the Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura.
If I go swimming with the Dolphins can my husband come on the boat but not swim with the Dolphin
Comments
Yes, if one person does not want to swim they can choose the watch (cruise only) option -
Does the Dolphin Encounter boat have wheelchair access?
Comments
Due to having limited space on the boat, there is no Wheelchair access
If you have never done snorkelling before, but am comfortable in the water. Do you think I would still be able to go swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Encounter?
Comments
If you're a confident swimmer you can certainly come on out for the Dolphin Swim experience
I was wondering what wetsuit shampoo you use on your wetsuits for Dolphin Encounter.
Comments
I can confirm that the wetsuit shampoo used at Dolphin Encounter is Eclipse by Eco Chem
Is 5:30 am or 8:30 am best for the Dolphin Encounter cruise
Comments
The Dolphin Encounter has a high chance of seeing Dolphins during any of their scheduled tour times.
The sun would be rising during the 5:30 am tour therefore giving it an amazing view
When are the Dolphin Super-pods in Kaikoura/best time to book the Dolphin Encounter
Comments
Summer (November - March) is the best time to do dolphin swimming in Kaikoura. The dusky dolphins visit Kaikoura in large 'super-pods', so Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura have a 90% success rate of swimming with dolphins at this time of year.
Is the dolphin encounter available in winter
Comments
Dolphin Encounter is available year-round! You are provided with wetsuits to keep you warm
What is the temperature of the water in Kaikoura for the Dolphin Encounter
Comments
The average sea temperature in Kaikoura in December is about 14.9 degrees Celsius.
do you provide life jacket for swimming with dolphin and snorkelling at Dolphin Encounter
Comments
The operator does not provide any life jackets due to the fact the wetsuit they provide is very buoyant. This will keep you afloat, also a life jacket keeps your head above the water and all of the dolphin action is beneath the service. So this would impair your ability to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
What age can you swim with dolphins.
Comments
The minimum age for swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura is 8. Children under 8 and over 3 are welcome on board the boat (dolphin watch) but must be supervised at all times by a parent or guardian.
If I can't swim very well, would I be able to wear a lifejacket so I could participate in the Dolphin encounter?
Comments
You don't have to be a great swimmer to go swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura however you do have to be confident enough to be in the open water without hanging on to anything. There is additional buoyancy aids such as float boards and noodles which you can use in the water. As long as you feel comfortable enough swimming a short distance away from the boat then you will be fine.
What to wear underneath a wetsuit for warmth and comfort. and does the Dolphin Encounter boat have any cubicle to change in privacy?
Comments
For the Dolphin Encounter, you will be provided with a two-piece 5mm wetsuit, mask and snorkel, flippers and a hood. Under your wetsuit you just need to wear your swimwear and nothing else.
It is easier if you wear your swimwear underneath your clothes on the day of your dolphin swim and you will be given time to put your wetsuit on.
How do I get this encounter from Christchurch
Comments
Hi Barb. It's about a 2 hour drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura or there is a train that goes there and back. If you are thinking of booking the train please check the Kaikoura dolphin encounter availability with us first to make sure there is space for you on the date you wish to travel.
Hi Madushika. Luckily in Kaikoura there is a resident pod of Dusky dolphins that can be found just off the coast all year round so no matter what time of year you are visiting Kaikoura you will be able to see and also swim with dolphins.
rating
93% of new customers that used Everything New Zealand to provide advice and securely book their NZ activities have let us know they've had a good or excellent experience with us. Thank you.
The pod of Dolphins are permanent to the area therefore the time of year shouldnt affect the likelihood of seeing the dolphins!
Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 22nd Mar 25 at 13:29