New Zealand · DOLPHIN WATCHING
The 10 best dolphin watching tours you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason; start there.
Review of Akaroa Dolphins’ two-hour catamaran cruise, with Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, coastal views, drinks, and practical tips.
“Excelent tour, very informative, lot of dolfins and sea lions and even a pingguin. We enjoyed it very much.”
Review of Auckland’s 4.5-hour whale and dolphin safari, with marine scientists, Hauraki Gulf scenery, conservation support, and practical tips.
“I highly recommend this crew. They were incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We had two whale sightings and saw multiple dolphin pods during our January 6th afternoon safari. This trip was truly memorable and well worth it.”
Auckland’s 4.5-hour Hauraki Gulf eco-cruise brings dolphins, whales, seabirds, research, and Rangitoto views close to the city.
“The upfront weather communications and crew were amazing on a very challenging weather day!”
Cruise Akaroa Harbour in search of rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, volcanic cliffs, and sea caves aboard a comfortable catamaran.
“Very enjoyable cruise. Saw Hector's dolphins. Cruise was exactly what it says on the box. I enjoyed Dave's banter during the trip too.”
Cruise Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf for dolphins, whales, island scenery, and a choice of Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyard.
“I enjoyed the relaxed and informative approach to the boat ride. The time on Rotora was good but was worried I would get left behind if I explored too much”
Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins in Akaroa Harbour on a small-group boat tour with wetsuits, guides, hot showers, and wildlife views.
“Black Cat actually wouldn't let us swim because the dolphins were feeding - I was impressed they showed restraint in this way. We saw lots of Hector's Dolphins from the boat, but they followed New Zealand's laws in not having us disturb them because they were feeding. I could imagine a company with less scruples saying go ahead anyway. Also, they gave us a partial refund because we didn't swim with dolphins, which we appreciated.”
Cruise Akaroa Harbour to see rare Hector’s dolphins, penguins, seals, seabirds, sea caves, and volcanic cliffs in two memorable hours.
“Really enjoyable had 3 teenagers on board with us who also thoroughly enjoyed it. Although we were lucky and saw lots of dolphins which is of course outside of anyone's control. Lots of other things of interest on cruise as well.”
Swim with wild dolphins in Tauranga on a six-hour Bay of Plenty cruise with wetsuits, snorkel gear, hot drinks, and expert commentary.
“Great experience, awesome crew, it was one of my best tours ever!!! I enjoyed the trip, the dolphin watching, best were the baby’s with their mother!”
Cruise the Marlborough Sounds from Picton, spot dolphins and seals, and walk Motuara Island with expert guides on this wildlife tour.
“Lovely ride around Marlborough sound. Saw many seals King birds and others. Smooth boat ride. Cam was fabulous guide. Definitely an adventure for the soul.”
Swim with wild dolphins from Tauranga, spot whales and seabirds, and enjoy a five-hour Bay of Plenty boat trip with a careful crew.
“5⭐️ for the captain and crew. They were awesome! 3⭐️ the waves were awful and people were throwing up. I think we should have turned around vs continually hearing it would get better because it didn't. 3 ⭐️for dolphin viewing as we couldn't see too many dolphins and definitely couldn't swim at end of boat because waves were too big”
Pick an island, a lake or a cave.
