Dolphin Encounter Cruise in Kaikoura – All You Need to Know

Are you looking for an incredible adventure in one of the most amazing place on earth? The Dolphin Encounter Cruise in Kaikoura is an amazing opportunity for nature lovers to observe unique wildlife in its beautiful and untouched habitat.

Kaikoura is located on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, two hours drive north of Christchurch. This region offers some of the world’s most spectacular oceanic wildlife including dolphins, whales, and a variety of marine birds. An observant population of fur seals also calls the area home. A great way to experience this wonderful destination is through a guided cruise with a local operator.

This article highlights the best Dolphin Encounter Cruise in Kaikoura and all you need to know before booking your trip. You’ll learn useful information such as: types of cruises, cruise times, ticket prices, safety guidelines, and more. As increased safety measures are being used due to the COVID-19 pandemic, extra precautions have been implemented. Businesses have invested in cleaning and sanitizing their boats and providing customers with face masks for a safe journey.

Dolphin Encounter Cruise Types

Private Charters – for those looking for a personal touch and a highly customizable experience, opting for a private charter is probably the best option. These cruises offer travellers the chance to choose when they wish to go out and explore the fascinating area. Although they can be pricier than the regular boat trips, you can bring up to 12 of your closest family and friends and take advantage of the unique opportunity to observe the whales and dolphins at close range with no other passengers on board. A dedicated skipper is provided on all charters with an experienced crew who will guide you through the trip and provide interesting facts about its surrounding wildlife.

Regular Tours – if a private charter isn’t for you then regular boat tours are a great way to explore the beautiful Kaikoura area from the sea. On these tours passengers will be accompanied by their experienced skipper as they cruise along the coastline, taking in the stunning views while aiming to spot wildlife of all kinds. These tours are great for wildlife lovers as there are plenty of opportunities to observe dolphins, seals, albatrosses, and sometimes even whales up close! To guarantee a safe journey these boats adhere to all local fishing laws and operate within legally designated times and areas.

Ticket Prices

The price of tickets can vary depending on the type of tour you choose and the number of people booking.

Private Charters – For example, some companies offer half-day charters (3 hours) from NZ$800 per adult and NZ$400 per child (maximum of 12 people). The full-day charters (6 hours) usually range from NZ$1500 per adult and NZ$750 per child. There is usually a minimum number of passengers required for this service, so feel free to contact providers for further information.

Regular Tours – Prices for regular full-day tours range from NZ$185-195 per adult, NZ$90-95 per child, with discounts available for large groups between 4 to 6 people. Short “whale watch’ trips (2.5 hours) are also available and cost NZ$145 per adult and NZ$75 per child with family packages available at discounts of up to 20%.

Safety Guidelines

Safety is always top priority when it comes to marine activity and this also applies to this type of tour. All customers need to follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety and maximize their experience on the trip.

First things first, it is important to check the weather forecast on any given day you are considering going out in the sea. As with any activity in nature, weather conditions can be unpredictable which is why we recommend always being prepared for any eventualities.

In compliance with maritime law, anybody under 15 years of age will not be allowed on board unless accompanied by an adult (18 years or older). All customers must sign waivers before boarding any boat – all customers aged 15 or above will be required to sign their own waivers while those under 15 must have them signed by their parents or guardians prior to embarking on the journey.

At all times it is important that all passengers follow instructions from the crew and keep their children supervised at all times for extra safety precautions. Tipping is not a requirement but very much appreciated should you feel inclined to do so at the end of your journey. Finally, lifejackets must be worn by all persons under 16 years at all times while out at sea (a comprehensive safety briefing will take place before departing).

Find a Tour Provider

When it comes to finding tour providers there’s no better place than GetYourGuide – a specialist platform that lists qualified suppliers all over the world offering tours of all kinds, including those across New Zealand’s South Island. On GetYourGuide you can find several Dolphin Encounter Cruise suppliers with high customer ratings offering private charters or regular boat trips with experienced skippers and experienced crews ready to show you around the amazing Kaikoura region!

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable encounter with nature then look no further than GetYourGuide – book your trip today and experience firsthand one of New Zealand’s most captivating destinations!
Experience nature with a Dolphin Encounter Cruise in Kaikoura from GetYourGuide.