Dolphin Swimming Tour

What to Expect

Your dolphin experience begins at our Picton waterfront base before boarding one of E-Ko’s purpose-built vessels for a small-group wildlife adventure through the calm sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds.

During the winter dolphin season (July–November), guests typically travel aboard our larger dolphin vessel, which accommodates up to 30 passengers with space for up to 18 swimmers per departure. Both swimmers and wildlife viewers share the same experience onboard, allowing families, couples, and mixed groups to enjoy the dolphin encounter together.

Winter departures are known for playful dusky dolphin encounters, smaller group experiences, calmer conditions, and fewer vessels on the water — creating one of the most personal dolphin experiences in New Zealand.

During the summer season (December–June), dolphin swimming departures are intentionally limited to help protect dolphin welfare and maintain respectful wildlife interactions. Due to limited vessel capacity during this period, viewing guests may occasionally be upgraded to our Motuara Island Sanctuary and Dolphin Watching Tour, combining dolphin encounters with a fully guided wildlife sanctuary experience on one of New Zealand’s most important predator-free island reserves.

Once dolphins are encountered, our experienced crew will assess sea conditions and dolphin behaviour before preparing swimmers to enter the water when appropriate. Guests remaining onboard enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, photography, and expert commentary from our marine guides throughout the experience.

Throughout the tour, guests commonly encounter fur seals, seabirds, penguins, and a variety of marine wildlife while cruising through the spectacular scenery of Queen Charlotte Sound.

Departure & Briefing Information

Swim guest briefing begins at 8:15am.
Viewing guest briefing begins at 8:30am.

All tours depart at 9:00am from the E-Ko Tours waterfront base in Picton.

Guests are asked to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for check-in and preparation. Our team will provide all required safety briefings, swimming equipment, and wildlife interaction guidelines before boarding.