Kaikoura - Dolphin Swim Tour

Posted by Suzy Preston from New Zealand on28 Jan 2021

Suzy Preston said... It's all in the title. I went in a day early while in town to fill in the paper work and confirm check in. On the day the process to check in and get sorted along with the safety video was super slick. We had a sunny day with great sea conditions. And we had dolphins. So many dolphins. I've never experienced anything like it. To be able to swim and play with these beautiful creatures is a privilege and something I would gladly go back and do again. We jumped in 3 times to swim and it was exciting and fun every time. They tell you not to smile as it interferes with the seal on your mask, but the enjoyment is too great and without realizing it I must've smiled a few times as eager seeped into my nose. I called out to my guide who asked if I was smiling? Not sure... put your head under again and don't smoke and see if water comes in... it didn't. Off I enter merrily trying not to smile. The staff were all friendly, helpful, professional and knowledgable. You can also hire a gopro camera which I'd recommend. I didn't check the website or realise this until we were on the boat and saw others being issued them. I hadn't been snorkeling in years but the have us a refresher on the trip out which was perfect. I chose not to wear the hood as I was finding it uncomfortable. Our guide says she prefers not too and you can hear the dolphins better without it. Sho surprised to hear the sounds they make under water. I found the water to be beautiful. I'd been swimming in rivers and Wellington before venturing south and was used to cold water. It's totally amazing. If I could only do one thing in KaikouraI would choose this. I know you can swim with dolphins in other places but the staff and the amount of dolphins here are outstanding.