WINTER DOLPHIN SWIM SPECIAL – MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

Swim with wild dusky dolphins this winter in the calm sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds — one of New Zealand’s most unique sheltered dolphin encounter environments.

Guided by experienced WCA-qualified marine guides, this small-group eco adventure offers respectful dolphin encounters, diverse marine wildlife, and unforgettable moments in nature.

IMPORTANT BOOKING INFORMATION

Please include the number of guests wishing to swim in the “Special Requirements” section when completing your booking.

WINTER DOLPHIN SEASON | DAILY DEPARTURES

Operating daily from 1 July to 30 November, winter is considered one of the best times to experience dusky dolphins in the Marlborough Sounds.

Enjoy:
• Calmer sheltered waters
• Fewer boats on the water
• Smaller group experiences
• More personal dolphin encounters
• Stunning winter wildlife conditions

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

Cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds as we search for:

• Dusky Dolphins
• Bottlenose Dolphins
• Common Dolphins
• Orca
• Crtically Endangered QCT Hector’s Dolphins (<30 remain) 

Along the way, you may also encounter:

• New Zealand Fur Seals
• Penguins
• Gannets & Shearwaters
• Diverse marine birdlife

Your guides will share fascinating insights into dolphin behaviour, marine conservation, and the unique ecosystem of Queen Charlotte Sound throughout the tour.

RELAX, FLOAT & LET THE DOLPHINS COME TO YOU

At E-Ko, we often describe the experience as “dolphin floating and singing” rather than dolphin swimming.

Wild dolphins are incredibly fast and can never be chased or caught — instead, guests relax, float calmly together, and gently sing through their snorkels while allowing dolphins to approach naturally out of curiosity.

When dolphin behaviour and sea conditions are suitable, swimmers aged 12+ will have the opportunity to enter the water for a truly remarkable wildlife encounter.

All interactions are conducted respectfully under strict Department of Conservation wildlife interaction guidelines to protect both dolphins and guests.

SWIMMING OR VIEWING?

Whether swimming or viewing, every guest enjoys the same incredible dolphin encounter experience aboard our purpose-built small-group vessel.

Mixed swimmer and viewer groups are welcome, making this experience ideal for:
• Families
• Couples
• Friends
• Mixed-age groups

WHY CHOOSE E-KO?

• Picton’s only dolphin swimming operator
• No competing swim boats on dolphin encounters
• Calm sheltered waters with little to no ocean swell
• Small-group eco experience
• WCA-qualified marine wildlife guides
• New Zealand’s only No Seasickness Guarantee

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Warm 6mm wetsuits
• Masks & snorkelling equipment
• Flotation equipment
• Hot drinks & cookies onboard
• Warm freshwater showers
• Expert wildlife interpretation

Just bring:
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Camera
• Sense of adventure

DEPARTURE INFORMATION

Departing from Picton Waterfront

Swim briefing: 8:15am
Viewing briefing: 8:30am
Departure: 9:00am
Duration: Approximately 2–4 hours

Look for the Bottlenose Dolphin and Seal outside our waterfront shop.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Dolphin encounters are designed to be calm, respectful, and accessible for a wide range of guests.

Participants should feel comfortable floating calmly in open water while following guide instructions.

All swimming guests are required to complete:
• Medical declaration
• Pre-swim assessment
• Liability waiver prior to departure

DOLPHIN GUARANTEE

If dolphins are not encountered during your tour, guests receive one complimentary return dolphin tour.

Complimentary return tours:
• Are non-transferable
• Must be used before 30 November

No refunds apply if swimming conditions are unsuitable, as viewing and swimming guests share the same premium wildlife encounter experience.