Encounter Kaikoura

Watch or swim with the dusky dolphins off the stunning Kaikoura Coast. Whether you choose to view from the boat or swim in the dolphin's natural environment, you will have a unique experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Experience the thrill of getting face to face with the albatross and many other incredible species of seabird found close to shore at Kaikoura which is now recognized as one of the world's leading arenas for seabird watching. Dedicated tours by boat depart up to three times per day with local wildlife experts as guides.

Children & Extra Guests
Swimming:
The ocean waters off Kaikoura where the dolphin swimming and watching occurs are open and exposed, with very little protection from the elements of wind and swell. Swimmers have to get into and out of the water from a boarding platform at the rear (stern) of the vessel in a variety of sea conditions. For the maximum enjoyment of children taking this tour, it is important that this is understood as there are no grounds for a refund should the child decide they are not confident enough to enter the water. It is also an advantage for your children to have had some degree of snorkelling experience and to be a confident swimmer. Because this is an open ocean experience the age limit for children participating in the swimming with dolphins' activity is 8 years of age.
Watching:
The age limit for this activity is normally 5 years of age. However with the agreement of the skipper and crew, if conditions are deemed suitable, children under the age of 5 years, but no younger than 3 years, may be permitted to take the tour.
Children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult on board at all times by the accompanying parents/guardians.
Management reserve the right to restrict the age limit of those participating on the tour if sea conditions are such that it is not suitable for young children.
Child care can be arranged provided sufficient advance notice is given however Encounter Kaikoura is not responsible for the care provided.

Getting There
From Christchurch 2.5 hours drive.
From Picton 2 hours drive.

Cancellation Policy
All cancellations and changes to your reservation must be advised before 4pm on the day before your tour. If you simply fail to show up for a tour and have not advised us of your cancellation, your credit card will be debited the full amount of your booking. Naturally all tours are dependent on suitable sea and weather conditions. Management reserve the right to cancel tours if these conditions are deemed unsuitable. Please be advised that due to permit restrictions we may not be able to automatically forward you onto the next scheduled tour.