New Zealand · DOLPHIN WATCHING
Good dolphin watching tours fill up over summer; the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
A 2-hour Akaroa catamaran wildlife cruise for Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins, with a drink, cookies, and dog-aided spotting.
“Excelent tour, very informative, lot of dolfins and sea lions and even a pingguin. We enjoyed it very much.”
Cruise from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on a 4.5-hour eco safari in Hauraki Gulf to spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and seabirds.
“Brilliant trip. We were fortunate enough to see lots of dolphins and also one whale, but even without that, the trip was educational, inspiring and enjoyable. The team’s knowledge was excellent and they informed us on the research they do and the alliance they have with other charities and companies.”
Auckland eco cruise on the Dolphin Explorer catamaran in Hauraki Gulf, with expert scientists, close wildlife viewing, and conservation support.
“We had an amazing time! The crew was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the experience enjoyable. While we didn’t spot any whales, the dolphins more than made up for it! We watched them for about 30 minutes, and they were absolutely incredible—such a joy to see them up close. It was also awesome to see the gannets diving from the sky—such a spectacular sight to witness in action!”
Cruise the Bay of Islands from Paihia or Russell, spot dolphins, aim for Motukōkako, then swim at Urupukapuka Island.
“Excellent trip. Very informative and stunning scenery. The staff were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.”
2-hour Akaroa harbour cruise to spot rare Hector’s dolphins, seals and penguins, plus history, warm jackets, wine, and cookies.
“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.”
Auckland Tikapa Moana cruise for whales and dolphins, plus an island stop and a return voucher if no marine mammals are seen.
“Well organised and so informative. Lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins and so many birds! And the trail in the island was beautiful”
Sail Akaroa Harbour to spot rare Hector dolphins, seals, and penguins on a modern catamaran with volcanic scenery, stories, tea, and a postcard.
“Saw alot of hector dolphins and fur seals. Boat was really good and so were the staff. Captain was very knowledgeable about the area with excellent commentary. Thoroughly recommend!”
Half-day Hole in the Rock cruise with dolphin spotting and a 90-minute Urupukapuka Island break at Otehei Bay.
“Great boat ride! Absolutely breathtaking scenery. The captain actually took the boat through the hole in the rock. This is an excursion that should not be missed!! Stopped at a beautiful cove too.”
Swim and snorkel with wild dolphins on a 6-hour Tauranga Bay of Plenty cruise with live guide commentary and hot drinks.
“This trip was absolutely amazing! The crew was beyond fantastic and helpful from start to finish! I was lucky enough to get in the water three times, but there was no comparison to the first time in the water. Dolphins were everywhere and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience!”
Half-day Marlborough Sounds cruise from Picton with a predator-free Motuara bird walk, dolphin and seal spotting, plus snacks and wine.
“The eco-tour was very nice. We were given a good briefing and instructive information about animals and nature. We really enjoyed Motuara Island. Unfortunately, live animals such as jellyfish and starfish were taken out of the water and left on the boat in the hot sun. Without my intervention, the animals would have burnt in the sun. This has no ecological aspect for me.”
Swim in the open ocean near Tauranga. Snorkel with wild common dolphins in the Bay of Plenty, with wildlife spotting and great crew.
“captain and crew did an amazing job. saw plenty of dolphins with babies. didnt get to swim but this experience alone was well worth the money”
Tauranga Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise in the Bay of Plenty. 5-hour half-day trip with live commentary, bar drinks, and big photo moments.
“We had a great time. Spent an hour with Dolhpins. The staff were very knowledgeable and friendly. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants to see wildlife in Tauranga.”
Explore Motuara Island, a DOC predator-free bird sanctuary, plus a Marlborough Sounds dolphin cruise from Picton, with hot drinks and Pinot Gris.
“Courtney and Dan were so informative and interesting to listen to. I could’ve stayed all day and heard about all the facts of the Sound. They made the trip very fun. With the bad weather we did not see what we planned to see (but that’s wildlife!) but they made up for it. Thank you both !!”
Sail aboard The Fox II to see Hector’s dolphins, penguins, seals, and seabirds around Akaroa’s cliffs and caves.
“A wonderful sail around Akaroa Harbour with close encounters with dolphins and seabirds and informative narrative about both human and natural history.”
Christchurch to Kaikōura in one long, scenic day, with fish and chips and a 4-hour Dolphin Encounter cruise for Dusky dolphins.
“Overall a great activity, seeing seals up close and seeing dolphins swimming and jumping was amazing. The fish and chips was also delicious.”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
