Swim With The Dolphins Kaikoura & Viewing Marine Life
Swim with Dolphins in Kaikoura or View Them from the Boat
Dolphin Encounters in Kaikoura
Kaikoura Dolphin Swimming & Viewing – A Marine Wildlife Adventure
Kaikoura is famous for its spectacular marine life that inhabits the picturesque coastline of Kaikoura, including whales, dolphins, orcas, albatross, penguins and a multitude of aquatic birdlife along fur seals.
Dolphin Encounter has been sharing unforgettable dolphin encounters with people from all corners of the globe for nearly 30 years.
Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura is New Zealand’s first company to offer swimming with dolphins.
They interact with the dolphins in their natural environment, a unique opportunity. Since then, we’ve built up an unmatchable level of experience, knowledge and insight about dolphins and the best ways to encounter them in safe, humane and environmentally-friendly ways (not to mention exciting and joyful!).
We are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is memorable and inspiring. Whether swimming with or watching the dolphins, you will be impressed by the grace and beauty of these magical marine mammals.
Hundreds of dolphins are leaping, flipping and jumping in a one-time-only acrobatic spectacular. As they leap, so does your heart. As they move with unrestrainable joy, so does your smile.
Our vessels are designed for optimum marine life viewing with adequate space so you will feel comfortable. Our professional crew will enthusiastically share their knowledge of the area and the marine life that makes Kaikoura special.
Dolphin Swim Kaikoura Tour Times:
Our dolphin tours operate three times daily in summer and two times daily in winter and advance bookings are essential for swimming, as seats are limited by Department of Conservations permits.
All tours are subject to the weather, the sea conditions, wildlife behaviour and minimum numbers to operate.
If you do not see the option you want to book (tours often sell out in advance in the summer months) Book Well in advance:
Dolphin Encounter Swim: Price: Adult $240 per person – Child ( aged 8 to 14) $225 per person
Dolphin Encounter Watch: Price: Adult $120 per person – Child ( aged 8 to 14) $80 per person
Departure Times: 8:30 am and 12:30 pm
With 16 swimmers on each tour, you can expect to get up close and personal with these energetic and life-loving marine mammals.
Dolphins are some of nature’s most extraordinary and captivating creatures. And they’re even more amazing close-up. Immerse yourself in their world with Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura, an unforgettable experience in one of New Zealand’s most breath-taking destinations
Phone: +64 3 3196777 Freephone: 0800 733 365
Email: [email protected] Visit Our Website: www.dolphinencounter.co.nz
Kaikoura Dolphin Experiences – Swim or Watch from the Comfort of a Boat
Discover unforgettable Kaikoura dolphin experiences that cater to every adventurer. Whether you prefer the thrill of swimming alongside playful dusky dolphins or the serenity of watching their acrobatics from the comfort of a boat, this tour offers something for everyone.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Kaikoura’s rugged coastline and pristine waters, you’ll immerse yourself in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular marine wildlife adventures.
Book your Kaikoura dolphin experience today
Return To Kaikoura Page
How to Photograph Dusky Dolphins, Orcas, and Whales:
Top Tips for Stunning Shots
Photographing marine life like dusky dolphins, orcas, and whales is an exhilarating challenge. Here’s how to get the best shots:
Gear Selection: Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera for control. A telephoto lens (70-300mm or 100-400mm) is essential for close-ups, while a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) captures breaches or dolphins near the boat. Choose a camera with image stabilization or bring a monopod for added support.
Camera Settings: Set your shutter speed to at least 1/1000s to freeze motion. Use f/5.6–f/8 for sharpness and depth of field. Adjust ISO manually (200–400 on sunny days) or use Auto in variable light. Use continuous autofocus to track moving subjects and shoot in burst mode to capture multiple frames of jumps or breaches.
Understand Behavior: Dusky dolphins are playful and acrobatic—look for pods chasing boats or surfing waves for dynamic shots. Orcas’ dorsal fins and blows are the first signs of their presence, while hunting pods provide action-packed moments. Watch for whales breaching, tail slapping, or waving fins; focus on their spouts to locate them and prepare your shot.
Composition Tips: Use the rule of thirds to position your subject off-center for dynamic shots. Include the horizon to add scale and emphasize the marine environment. Capture unique behaviors like breaches, tail slaps, and leaps for compelling photos.
Handling Challenges: Use higher ISO settings and faster lenses (f/2.8 or f/4) in low light. A circular polarizing filter reduces water glare. Stand mid-ship for stability on moving boats and keep knees bent to absorb motion.
Ethical and Safety Considerations: Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and avoiding chasing. Use a telephoto lens to observe from afar. Work with experienced guides who know the best areas while following marine conservation guidelines.
For orcas and whales, anticipate action—whales often arch their backs before breaching. Capture dorsal fins with reflections on calm water for dramatic compositions.
By understanding marine behavior and being prepared, you can create stunning images of dusky dolphins, orcas, and whales. With practice and patience, the results will be well worth it.