Dolphin Swimming & Wildlife Tours in Picton – E-Ko Tours
Updated 14 th April 2026
Dolphin Swimming & Wildlife Tours in Picton – E-Ko Tours
You can swim with dolphins in Picton on a guided eco tour in the Marlborough Sounds. E-Ko Tours offers small-group dolphin swimming and wildlife experiences, giving you the chance to see dolphins, seals and other marine life in their natural environment.
👉 Tour highlights:
- Dolphin swimming (conditions permitting)
- Dolphin and wildlife watching
- Small-group eco tours
- Expert local guides
Tours depart from Picton and explore the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, one of New Zealand’s best locations for marine wildlife encounters.
Dolphin Watching & Swimming in Picton, Marlborough Sounds
Experience the Magic of Marlborough Sounds with E-Ko Cruises.
Experience the magic of the Marlborough Sounds with E-Ko Tours as you cruise through pristine waters surrounded by native bush and remote bays. Discover a variety of dolphin species, including dusky, bottlenose, common and Hector’s dolphins, and watch them in their natural habitat.
Led by expert guides, these eco tours provide fascinating insights into the region’s marine life while ensuring a safe and respectful wildlife experience. Along the way, enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and one of New Zealand’s most unique natural environments.
Ready for an unforgettable experience? Book your Picton dolphin cruise today and uncover the magic of the Marlborough Sounds with E-Ko Tours.
👉 Which Dolphin Tour Should You Choose?
- Swim with dolphins: Best for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- Motuara Island cruise: Best for wildlife + scenery + walking
Discover the Magic of Dolphin Encounters in the Marlborough Sounds
Price: $218 per person – Child $175 per person (Aged 12 to 15)
Departs: 9:00 am Briefing starts at 8:30 am
Duration: 4 Hours
Success rate: 95% dolphin viewing | 80% swim success
Experience one of the best dolphin encounters in New Zealand with this small-group eco tour in the Marlborough Sounds. Swim alongside dolphins (conditions permitting) or enjoy incredible wildlife viewing from the boat.
👉 Highlights:
- Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat
- See dusky, bottlenose, common and Hector’s dolphins
- Chance to spot seals, seabirds and occasional whales
- Small-group experience with expert guides
- All equipment provided (wetsuits, snorkel gear)
As a permitted operator, E-Ko Tours focuses on responsible wildlife interactions, ensuring a safe and respectful experience for both guests and marine life.
👉 View Availability & Book Now
Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary & Dolphin Cruise – E-Ko Tours
Price: $168 per person – Child $84 per person (Aged 5 to 15)
Departs: 8:00 am and 1:30 pm (Briefing starts 20 minutes before departure)
Duration: 4 Hours
Combine dolphin watching with a visit to one of the Marlborough Sounds’ most important wildlife sanctuaries. This tour includes a guided stop on Motuara Island, home to rare native bird species.
👉 Highlights:
- Dolphin watching in the Marlborough Sounds
- Guided walk on Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary
- See native birds in a protected environment
- Scenic cruise through remote bays and coastline
- Expert commentary from local guides
This is a great option if you want a mix of wildlife, nature and light walking in one tour.
👉 Check Availability & Book Now
What to bring
- Sunhat
- Sunblock
- Good walking shoes
- Water
- Raincoat
Check Out Other Whales & Wildlife Tours HERE
Phone: + 64 3 573 8040 Email: [email protected]
Visit our Website: www.e-ko.nz/
Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary & Dolphin Cruise FAQs
The tour is approximately 4 hours, including a scenic cruise, dolphin encounters, and a guided walk on Motuara Island.
You may encounter Dusky, Bottlenose, Common, Orca, or the rare Hector’s dolphins during the cruise. Our expert guides will help you spot them in their natural habitat.
The walk is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the path includes some inclines.
Yes, you are welcome to bring snacks and water. However, please note that Motuara Island is a predator-free sanctuary, so take care to leave no trace.
We recommend bringing:
- A sunhat and sunblock for UV protection
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A raincoat in case of unexpected weather
- A reusable water bottle
Yes, children aged 5 to 15 can join at a discounted rate. The tour is family-friendly and offers plenty of opportunities for children to engage with wildlife.
While we cannot guarantee dolphin sightings, our guides are highly skilled at locating them, ensuring a high chance of encounters.
Yes, E-Ko Tours is committed to eco-tourism and operates with minimal environmental impact. Motuara Island is a protected bird sanctuary, and all visits are conducted respectfully to preserve its natural environment.
In the event of poor weather, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons. You’ll be notified in advance and given the option to rebook or receive a refund.
You can book directly through our website by clicking the “Book Now” button or contacting our reservations team.