New Zealand · DOLPHIN WATCHING
Hector's dolphins at Akaroa are the smallest and rarest on the list; the Bay of Islands has the numbers. These 15 cover both coasts, priced, with a note on which trips still allow swimming.
Cruise Akaroa Harbour by catamaran, spot Hector’s dolphins, seals, and penguins, and enjoy a local drink, cookie, and expert commentary.
“Lovely time out. Lots of good information. Saw dolphins and seals. Comfortable boat. Enjoyable trip. Love the dog Albi.”
Review the Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise, with wildlife tips, itinerary details, value, comfort, and booking advice.
“Enjoyed dolphins , glimpses of penguins but no whales despite valiant attempt by crew. Great education!”
Review Auckland’s 4.5-hour whale and dolphin eco-cruise, with practical tips on wildlife, boat comfort, price, weather, and conservation.
“We had an amazing time! The crew was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the experience enjoyable. While we didn’t spot any whales, the dolphins more than made up for it! We watched them for about 30 minutes, and they were absolutely incredible—such a joy to see them up close. It was also awesome to see the gannets diving from the sky—such a spectacular sight to witness in action!”
Review the Paihia or Russell Bay of Islands cruise to Hole in the Rock, with dolphins, island time, wildlife, and practical booking tips.
“We meet a group of Dolphins on our way. They stayed and flirted with us for almost 20 minutes or so”
Cruise Akaroa Harbour for rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, volcanic cliffs, local stories, wine, cookies, and expert guiding.
“Outstanding. One of our favourite activities in the entire trip. We went out further and saw more than I expected! Amazing value, these guys are top notch. Must do.”
Cruise Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf for whales, dolphins, island scenery, conservation stories, and a choice of Rotoroa or Man O’ War stop.
“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"🐳”
Cruise Akaroa Harbour for Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, seabirds, volcanic cliffs, local stories, and excellent coastal views.
“Fantastic cruise. The crew were very friendly and knowlegable.”
Cruise New Zealand’s Bay of Islands to the Hole in the Rock, spot dolphins, and enjoy 90 minutes to swim, hike, or eat on Urupukapuka Island.
“Enjoyable few hours on the cruise. But bumpy in places on the way out so if you suffer from travel sickness definitely recommend you take a tablet before. Unfortunately we didn’t see any dolphins but enjoyed it all the same”
Swim with wild dolphins in Tauranga on a six-hour Bay of Plenty cruise with wetsuits, snorkel gear, guides, tea, and coffee.
“It was purely amazing We had an amazing pod. The crew was kind, helpful, professional and we learned a lot thanks to their passion. Thank you”
Review of E-Ko’s Picton wildlife cruise to Motuara Island, with dolphins, seals, seabirds, guided walks, pricing, tips, and honest drawbacks.
“Beautiful day and comfortable on the boat that we could go in and out of the covering. Lots of knowledge - we saw so much but when we saw the dolphins the driver was in a rush to leave we all would have enjoyed seeing more. Heads up you need to bring your own water - recommend it should be in the description. It still was a wonderful tour.”
Swim with wild dolphins from Tauranga, spot whales and seabirds, and enjoy a five-hour Bay of Plenty boat trip with expert crew.
“We had a great time. Saw lots of dolphins. Was happy that it was real and not captive dolphins we didn’t get to swim, as there were babies in the pod but we were very close in any case.”
Review of Tauranga’s 5-hour dolphin and wildlife cruise, with practical details on marine life, price, timing, seating, views, and value.
“Great trip to understand wild sea life. Great crew and service. The skipper is very helpful and friendly. He always focus on customers expectations.”
Cruise Tauranga’s Bay of Plenty for dolphins, penguins, whales, and more, with expert commentary, open views, and practical tips for a five-hour trip.
“Was a great day, bit worried the dolphins were hiding but they popped up and saved the day!!! Lovely scenery on the ride there and back”
Cruise Marlborough Sounds to Motuara Island for rare birds, dolphins, and expert-guided conservation at $100 per person.
“Connor and Daniel were extremely professional and knowledgeable, and fun to be around with. We saw dolphins, seals and a variety of birds. Definitely recommend!”
Review of E-Ko’s Picton eco-tour to Blumine Island, with rare birds, dolphins, marine biologists, refreshments, price, and practical tips.
“We arrived late. But the Team was helpful that we could join. The tour is given, but the explanations and the information given by the crew was very good.”
Pick a coast, a crater or a cellar door.
