New Zealand · DOLPHIN WATCHING
10 reviewed
Here are the 10 best dolphin watching tours anywhere in New Zealand, set out with the price, the running time and the town each one leaves from. The one at the top earned its place.
A 2-hour Akaroa catamaran wildlife cruise with trained dolphin-spotting dogs, included drinks, and homemade cookies, in search of Hector’s dolphins.
“This was a wonderful experience! We saw penguins, dolphins, seals, and shags. The boat was small but spacious. We also really loved to ship's dog, he was so cute and friendly.”
4.5-hour eco safari from Viaduct Harbour in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf to spot dolphins, whales, seabirds, and more with marine scientists.
“I highly recommend this crew. They were incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We had two whale sightings and saw multiple dolphin pods during our January 6th afternoon safari. This trip was truly memorable and well worth it.”
Sail from Auckland on the Dolphin Explorer, scan Hauraki Gulf waters for orcas, dolphins, whales, and seabirds, with expert science onboard.
“The upfront weather communications and crew were amazing on a very challenging weather day!”
2-hour Akaroa cruise for rare Hector’s dolphins, sea caves, volcanic views, and included wine and home baking on a stable catamaran.
“Amazing cruise where we had the chance to see several dolphins and penguins. The captain was very informative, and the crew was lovely. It was also a nice touch to enjoy a drink and a small snack along the way.”
Cruise Tikapa Moana from Auckland to spot whales and dolphins, plus an island stop at Rotoroa or Waiheke’s Man O’ War.
“Wow, wow, wow, what a fabulous day and so lucky😎 Even the guys running the boat said we saw a lot more than is usual and in perfect weather too. Loads of Gannets that gave away the positions of the feeding Common Dolphins and Bryde's Whales😎 These whales are quite common here but considered as critically endangered generally🙄 Brutus" is a nickname for the Bryde's whale, that is pronounced "Broodus"🐳”
Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins in Akaroa Harbour on a small-group boat. Gear, guide, hot shower, and a return ticket if dolphins don’t show.
“At first we thought we could not get in the sea with the dolphins because of the rough sea, but than we could and it was an extraordinary experience... Eventhough the dolphins didn't come so close... The guides were nice and helpful and gave us much tips how to attract them. It was amazing.”
2-hour Akaroa Harbour dolphin cruise on a modern catamaran to spot rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, and volcanic scenery. $71.
“Amazing harbour cruise, very knowledgeable skipper, got to see some amazing parts of the harbour and some dolphins. Highly recommend doing this cruise 10/10”
Swim and snorkel with wild dolphins on a Bay of Plenty cruise from Tauranga, with wetsuit, gear, live commentary, and hot drinks.
“The crew are lovely and very reassuring, and they know a lot about the beautiful dolphins that you swim with. Also watching a pod of dolphins play beside the boat in there own habitat.”
Half-day Marlborough Sounds cruise from Picton to Motuara Island, spotting dolphins and fur seals, plus a guided, predator-free bird walk.
“This is more focused on birds and less on dolphins. Why we saw two dolphins. Fifteen minutes out of four hours was focused on the dolphins. Bird watching was outstanding. Many varieties. The island has a steep walk to the top The guide Will was outstanding. Extremely knowledgeable and fun. Dan the boat driver maneuvered the boat to allow everyone to view the birds.”
Swim with common dolphins off Tauranga in open ocean. Snorkel, watch whales and seals, and enjoy a 5-hour cruise.
“We had a wunderful fun time on the boat. The guide girls were excellent. The encounter with the dolphins breath-taking! Thank you! We will definitely come again!”
