Dolphin watching around Christchurch centers on the rare Hector’s dolphin – the world’s smallest dolphin species. Three tours stand out for exceptional wildlife viewing and value.
The Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour combines intimate dolphin spotting with local cheese tasting, making it perfect for foodies who love nature.
For photographers, the 9-Hour Akaroa Harbour cruise offers the best vantage points of both dolphins and South Island’s dramatic coastline.
Active travelers will appreciate the hands-on Kaikoura Day Tour, which brings you remarkably close to these playful creatures.
Check out these outstanding tour options:
Good To Know
- The Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour offers a nature cruise where visitors can spot the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins.
- The Akaroa Harbour 9-Hour Dolphin Cruise from Christchurch provides opportunities to see Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat.
- The Kaikoura Day Tour with Dolphin Encounter from Christchurch includes a dolphin encounter to watch the playful marine mammals.
- The Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch offers a dolphin swim experience.
- These tours provide the best chances to observe dolphins in their natural environment near Christchurch.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour (Nature Cruise or Dolphin Swim)
The Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour offers a nature-filled excursion to the charming French-influenced town of Akaroa. Departing from Christchurch, the luxury tour takes guests on a scenic journey to explore the colonial architecture, art galleries, craft shops, wine bars, and cafes of this unique settlement.
The highlight of the tour is the eco-marine harbor cruise, where visitors can spot birdlife and marine mammals, including the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins. After the cruise, the tour includes a visit to a cheese factory for a tasting of locally made cheeses. Lunch at a cafe and light refreshments are also provided.
With 47 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour is a top-rated experience. Guests can choose to swim with the dolphins for an additional activity. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with infant seats available, but not wheelchair-friendly. The tour operator is Carbon Positive certified, ensuring an environmentally-conscious experience.
Read our full review: Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour (Nature Cruise or Dolphin Swim) Review
Book now: Check availability
Akaroa Harbour 9-Hour Dolphin Cruise From Christchurch
Departing from the heart of Christchurch, this comprehensive 9-hour Akaroa dolphin cruise immerses visitors in the breathtaking natural splendor of the Banks Peninsula. The tour begins with a scenic drive through the South Island countryside, showcasing landmarks like Governor’s Bay, Gebbies Pass, and the picturesque lakes of Ellesmere and Forsyth.
Upon arrival in Akaroa, guests will embark on a dolphin cruise, where they’ll have the chance to spot the rare and playful Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat. While touching the dolphins isn’t permitted, visitors can marvel at these captivating creatures from up close. The tour also includes opportunities to see penguins and seals, as well as free time to explore the charming French colonial town of Akaroa and its craft shops and historic buildings.
Rounding out the experience is a visit to a local cheese factory for a tasting session.
Read our full review: Akaroa Harbour 9-Hour Dolphin Cruise From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability
Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Encounter From Christchurch
Cheeky Kea Tours takes visitors on a captivating Kaikoura day trip from Christchurch, immersing them in the region’s natural wonders. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, alcoholic beverages, lunch featuring famous local fish and chips, and snacks like classic Kiwi treats. Travelers can enjoy free WiFi throughout the journey.
The highlight of the tour is the Dolphin Encounter, where guests can watch the playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 16 people per group. Pickup and drop-off are offered at various locations in Christchurch, with times ranging from 7:55 to 9:00 AM.
Guests must be at least 18 years old to consume alcohol and can’t have any serious medical conditions. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the experience starts, with a full refund available.
Read our full review: Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Encounter From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability
Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch
This 2-day nature tour from Christchurch to Kaikoura promises an unforgettable experience for travelers. The tour highlights include a whale-watching cruise, a dolphin swim, a visit to a fur seal colony, and optional snorkeling with dusky dolphins. The round-trip coach transport, overnight accommodation at the Anchor Inn, and all mentioned activities are included.
On day one, travelers will journey from Christchurch to Kaikoura, enjoy a whale-watching cruise, and have free time to explore the town.
The second day begins with a swim with dusky dolphins, followed by a visit to a fur seal colony. The tour then returns to Christchurch, with an optional wine tasting along the way.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and children 8 years and older can participate in the dolphin swim. A basic fitness level is required, and pre-existing medical conditions must be declared. Refunds are available for weather-related cancellations or unused portions of the tour. Each traveler is limited to one medium-sized bag (20kg), and the tour has a maximum of 50 participants.
Read our full review: Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Christchurch offers several excellent dolphin watching tours. The Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Small Group Tour, Akaroa Harbour 9-Hour Dolphin Cruise, Kaikoura Day Tour With Dolphin Encounter, and Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour provide opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close. Whether you prefer a cruise, swim, or day trip, there’s a dolphin tour to suit your preferences and enhance your Christchurch experience.