Dolphin Tours from Picton
Compare three unforgettable dolphin experiences from Picton—from a scenic wildlife cruise and Motuara Island sanctuary visit to dedicated dolphin watching or the chance to swim with wild dolphins in Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui.
Motuara Island Sanctuary & Dolphin Watching Tour
Cruise in search of wild dolphins, seals and seabirds, then enjoy a guided visit to DOC-managed, predator-free Motuara Island. Discover endangered native birds and choose either the 30-minute walk to the observation tower or the five-minute walk to the bird-viewing area.
Because this tour travels up to 32 km into the Sounds, it offers our best opportunity to encounter orca, which pass through the area approximately 10–15 times each year
Departures: 8:00 am and 1:30 pm
Returns: 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm
Dolphin Watching Tour in Calm, Sheltered Waters in Picton
Enjoy a relaxed wildlife cruise through Picton’s calm, sheltered waters in search of wild dolphins. Stay comfortably aboard while your expert guide shares stories about dolphin behaviour, marine life and conservation.
Winter bonus: Migrating humpback whales may pass close to our coastline from June to August. See our Whale Tour for the seasonal experience.
Available all year round | 1–2 hours
Multiple daily departures from 8:00 am
Swim with Wild Dolphins - Bottlenose or Dusky Dolphins
Enter the calm, sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds for the chance to swim with wild dolphins. Winter tours focus on playful dusky dolphins, while limited summer tours offer the opportunity to encounter bottlenose dolphins. Our Dolphins are relaxed. Picton is a place of rest for them.
Winter: 1 June–31 October | Daily
Summer: 1 November–31 May | Wednesday and Saturday
Departs 9:00 am | Approximately 2–4 hours
IMPORTANT DOLPHIN SWIMMING INFORMATION
Dolphin swimming is available only to guests aged 12 years or older. Photo ID confirming age must be presented at check-in.
Winter swim season runs from 1 June to 31 October, with daily departures focused on dusky dolphin encounters. Summer swim season runs from 1 November to 31 May, with limited Wednesday and Saturday departures offering the rare opportunity to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins.
All encounters involve wild animals. Swimming depends on the dolphin species present, dolphin behaviour, calves, weather and sea conditions, and the crew’s assessment under Department of Conservation rules. Dolphin viewing remains available throughout the year.
E-Ko Tours is the only New Zealand operator offering a No Seasickness Guarantee.