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Offered languages
- English
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, limited to only 12 swimmers per trip, and immerse yourself in the wonder of swimming with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins – the Hector’s dolphin. Each tour is guided by a knowledgeable Nature Guide and Skipper aboard our specially designed vessel, which offers an informative commentary of the harbour while highlighting wildlife conservation efforts in the region. You’ll have the chance to swim with Hector’s dolphins, get close to ancient volcanic cliffs, and observe New Zealand fur seals alongside various marine bird species.
Please Note: This is a nature-based experience with wild dolphins in their natural environment. While our crew has a high success rate, swims are not guaranteed and no refunds are given for unsuccessful swims. Read more about this policy below.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Departure Point: Akaroa's Main Wharf Dates: Swimming with Dolphins operates from 1st September through to 30 April. Return point: Swim boats return to original point of departure, check in time 15 minutes prior.
Itinerary
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Our most intimate dolphin experience in Akaroa, only 90 minutes from Christchurch. Swim with Hector’s dolphins and view other wildlife such as the NZ fur seal in this all-inclusive 3.5-hour tour. With a maximum of 12 swimmers, you’ll enjoy a personalised excursion led by our experienced skipper and nature guide. Begin at Akaroa’s main wharf, meet fellow adventurers, and gear up with provided wetsuits. After a safety briefing, step aboard a once-in-a-lifetime journey to explore Akaroa Harbour’s wildlife, stunning landscape and swim with the Hector's dolphin. Respecting wildlife is our priority, and your guide will offer insights on conservation. A portion of your ticket supports the Department of Conservation. Included: 5mm high-quality wetsuit, optional mask, hot chocolate, biscuits post-swim and hot showers. Dolphin Promise: Our guides have a high success rate at finding Hector’s dolphins. If you don’t see them, enjoy a free Akaroa Nature Cruise to return another time.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children Swimmers between 8yrs and 12yrs must be accompanied by an adult swimmer.
- Children between 13yrs and 17yrs must be accompanied by an adult spectator.
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children Swimmers between 8yrs and 12yrs must be accompanied by an adult swimmer.
- Children between 13yrs and 17yrs must be accompanied by an adult spectator.
- Akaroa is ideally situated, only a 120 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport. You can either drive yourself or catch one of the shuttles, which operate daily between Christchurch city center and Akaroa.
- Life Jackets are NOT permitted and if one is required this product is not suitable, please join our Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise.
- Minimum age for a child to Swim with Dolphins is 8yrs and to join as a spectator 4yrs
- Final Check in time is 15 minutes prior to Tour Time
- If you have Asthma/Allergies please know you are required to have your inhaler/EpiPen with you
- Please reconfirm your reservation the day prior so weather updates can be given.
- All swimmers must be able to swim a minimum of 50 metres unaided and be confident swimming in open sea conditions as we operate in waters between 15-30 metres deep.
- Please Note: This is a nature-based experience with wild dolphins in their natural environment. While our crew has a high success rate, swims are not guaranteed and no refunds are given for unsuccessful swims.
- All medical conditions need to be declared as this product may not be suitable due to injuries or recent surgeries.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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