Akaroa: Swimming with Wild Dolphins 3.5 Hour Experience – South Island, New Zealand

EXPERIENCE

• Small group tours – Your 3.5-hour excursion with a maximum of 12 swimmers will be led by our skipper and a nature guide making every trip an intimate experience. The tour begins at our facility on Akaroa’s main wharf, where you’ll meet fellow adventurers and change into the provided wetsuits. After briefing, step onboard our purpose-built boats and embark on an in-depth journey to get really close to the native wildlife on the Akaroa Harbour.

• Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and marine birdlife – The opportunity to swim with Hector’s dolphins, get close to ancient volcanic cliffs to view New Zealand fur seals and other marine birdlife.

• Eco-tourism pioneers – As strong advocates and active contributors to conservation, the itinerary is designed to respect the wildlife and our environment. As we navigate the harbour our Skipper and Nature Guide will talk you through Akaroa’s geological features and wildlife conservation – plus guide you on how to encounter the Hector’s dolphins while respecting their natural behaviours. A portion of your ticket will go towards the Department of Conservation’s fund.

• Photography – Hands too wet to take a photo? We’ve got you. Our Nature Guide will have a camera and will endeavour to take photos of you in the ocean (weather permitting), seeing the wildlife and other breathtaking moments worth sharing. You’ll receive a download link from us after your trip.

• All-inclusive and Dolphins Promise – your ticket includes hire of high quality 5mm wet-suit and optional mask, hot chocolate and biscuits to energize you after the swim, a personalized tour of the harbour on your way back to the Akaroa Wharf, and hot showers at the end of the trip. Our skippers and Nature Guides are experienced at finding pods of Hector’s dolphins and enjoy a high success rate – in the unlikely event you don’t get to see the Hector’s dolphins you’ll receive a complimentary Akaroa Nature Cruise to join us another time.

HIGHLIGHTS

Swim with wild Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin
Learn how to interact with the dolphins before getting into the water
Enjoy an intimate experience with only 12 swimmers per vessel

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