Dolphin & Whale Watching in New Zealand

Set anchor at Ship Cove, a sheltered bay of Queen Charlotte Sound where Captain James Cook landed in the late 1700s. During this half-day nature cruise in the Marlborough Sounds, enthusiastic marine biologists point out wildlife including New Zealand fur seals and several species of dolphins: Hector's, bottlenose and dusky. Spot rare seabirds and learn about the history between Cook and the Maori people of Aotearoa while you're treated to refreshments on board.

A Kaikoura whale-watching cruise and dolphin swim are the highlights of this delightful 2-day nature tour, round-trip from Christchurch. Your marine experience includes a visit to a New Zealand fur seal colony and suiting up in snorkel gear to swim alongside the amazing dusky dolphins. Stay overnight with 5-star accommodation in this tiny coastal town after a scenic drive by coach through North Canterbury, and stop for complimentary wine tasting on the return journey.

Watch for dolphins in the Bay of Islands on a 4-hour wildlife cruise by high-speed catamaran, with the chance to swim alongside a pod of dolphins. This half-day dolphin tour is specially designed to respect the dolphins' habitat, and includes use of snorkeling equipment and a wetsuit. Both morning and afternoon departures are available.

Cruise the waters of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of whales, dolphins and penguins on a half-day tour from Auckland. You'll board a spacious catamaran at Viaduct Harbour and hear expert guides share informative commentary about New Zealand's natural wonders. During the whale and dolphin safari, keep an eye out for six types of whales that frequent these waters, as well as seabirds such as Australasian gannets, petrels and terns.

Watch wild dolphins frolic near your boat and have the option to hop in the water and swim near them on this half-day Bay of Islands dolphin-watching cruise in New Zealand. Your captain cruises to remote islands, where you look for dolphins and other marine animals such as seals, orcas and penguins. If conditions allow, you can even swim with the dolphins from the boat - an unforgettable experience! Hear informative commentary from the crew on a tour that has a maximum of 35 participants, ensuring a more customized adventure.