Christchurch’s dolphin-watching scene packs a powerful punch, with tours operating from two main bases: Akaroa and Kaikoura. Having explored these waters extensively, I’m particularly impressed by the Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Tour. This compact adventure combines a beautiful drive with local cheese tasting and your choice of watching or swimming with rare Hector’s dolphins – the smallest dolphins in the world.
For serious marine enthusiasts, the Kaikoura options stand out. The day tour’s 4-hour cruise delivers reliable dolphin sightings, while the overnight version adds whale watching for a complete maritime experience.
Let’s look at our favorite tours around Christchurch:
Key Points
- The Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Tour offers an intimate dolphin-watching experience with a maximum of 8 passengers, scenic drives, and local cheese tasting.
- The Kaikoura Day Tour from Christchurch includes a 4-hour dolphin-watching cruise, with an optional dolphin swim upgrade, and a scenic drive with lunch.
- The Kaikoura Overnight Tour provides a 2-day experience with a whale-watching cruise, dolphin swim, scenic coach journey, and overnight accommodation.
- The Kaikoura 2-Day Tour offers a comprehensive marine life experience, including whale watching and dolphin swimming, with round-trip transportation and confirmation within 48 hours.
- The Akaroa Dolphin Swim Tour provides a 9-hour experience with the opportunity to swim with Hector’s dolphins, round-trip travel from Christchurch, and free time in Akaroa.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour (Nature Cruise or Dolphin Swim)
For those seeking an intimate and immersive introduction to the natural wonders of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, the “Journey to Akaroa with Harbour Cruise – Luxury, Small Group Tour” is an excellent choice.
This highly-rated tour offers a personalized experience for a maximum of 8 passengers, showcasing the region’s scenic beauty. Highlights include a scenic drive, local cheese tasting, and the option to explore Akaroa village or embark on a nature cruise or dolphin swim.
Traveling in a luxury vehicle with a knowledgeable local guide, this tour delivers an exceptional blend of sightseeing, culture, and wildlife encounters, all while supporting conservation efforts in New Zealand.
Read our full review: Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour (Nature Cruise or Dolphin Swim) Review
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From Christchurch: Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Cruise
Departing from Christchurch, this comprehensive day tour transports visitors to the picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura, renowned for its abundant marine life.
Priced from $201.08 per person, the tour includes a scenic drive, morning tea, a fish and chips lunch, and the highlight – a 4-hour dolphin-watching cruise. Guests can opt to upgrade and swim with the dolphins.
The tour also offers a wine tasting stop, if time permits. With hotel pickups, a live English-speaking guide, and amenities like Wi-Fi and USB charging, this tour provides a well-rounded Kaikoura experience.
While the overall rating is 3.3/5, individual feedback highlights the personalized service and flexibility.
Read our full review: From Christchurch: Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Cruise Review
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Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch
This 2-day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch offers a comprehensive marine life adventure.
Departing from Christchurch, the tour includes a scenic coach journey, a whale-watching cruise, and the opportunity to swim with dusky dolphins.
Travelers will also visit a fur seal colony and may have time for a wine tasting.
The tour provides round-trip transportation, overnight accommodation, and all necessary equipment for the dolphin swim.
With a 5-star rating, this tour is accessible to wheelchair users and families with children over 8.
Travelers should be aware of the cancellation policy and any medical conditions they may have.
Read our full review: Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch Review
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2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour From Christchurch
The Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour from Christchurch offers a comprehensive marine life experience.
This 2-day tour from Christchurch includes a whale watching cruise and a dolphin encounter swim. Travelers will enjoy 1 night’s accommodation, coach transport, and the services of experienced drivers.
The tour is priced from €536.36 per person, with a maximum group size of 20. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 3 days in advance.
While meals aren’t included, the tour provides an excellent opportunity to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: 2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour From Christchurch Review
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Akaroa Swim With Dolphins Tour From Christchurch
Travelers seeking a memorable dolphin encounter can embark on the Akaroa Swim With Dolphins Tour from Christchurch. This 9-hour experience includes round-trip travel from Christchurch and the chance to swim with Hector’s dolphins, one of the world’s smallest dolphin species.
The tour provides wetsuits, flippers, and snorkeling gear, allowing participants to observe the dolphins in their natural habitat. While touching the dolphins is prohibited, swimmers can get as close as 50 meters.
The tour also includes free time to explore the picturesque town of Akaroa, visit craft shops, and taste local cheeses. With a maximum of 50 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and eco-friendly dolphin encounter.
Read our full review: Akaroa Swim With Dolphins Tour From Christchurch Review
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Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Encounter From Christchurch
For those seeking a more dynamic dolphin encounter, the Kaikoura Day Tour with Dolphin Encounter from Christchurch offers an exhilarating opportunity.
The tour starts at 9 AM and can accommodate up to 16 travelers, providing an intimate experience. At $209.31 per person, the tour includes a dolphin encounter, lunch, snacks, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Pickup options are available from various locations in Christchurch, with the main meeting point at the Christchurch Bus Interchange.
While service animals are permitted, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions aren’t allowed.
Read our full review: Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Encounter From Christchurch Review
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Sum Up
Christchurch offers several excellent dolphin watching tours, including cruises and swim experiences in both Akaroa and Kaikoura. These tours provide opportunities to see the stunning Banks Peninsula and spot various marine life, such as Hector’s and dusky dolphins. Visitors can choose from a range of tour options, from day trips to multi-day adventures, to suit their preferences and budget.