THE EXPERIENCE
WHY SWIM WITH DOLPHINS IN AKAROA
5 REASONS TO SWIM WITH BLACK CAT CRUISES
#1. SWIM WITH THE WORLD’S SMALLEST Hector’s dolphins, ONLY IN NEW zEALAND
Your once in a life time opportunity to swim with the rare Hector’s dolphin, only in New Zealand. The small-pods of dolphin provides an intimate experience like no other. Furthermore, get closer to Akaroa’s wildlife on our purpose-built boats and see NZ fur seals, marine birds, volcanic cliffs and more.
#2. Experienced crew
We were the first dolphin swimming operator in New Zealand and have operated thousands of trips since 1988. All our crew are highly trained. This means that you’ll get a great briefing on how to interact with the hector’s dolphins and what to expect prior to your journey. They’ll also give you safety instructions and other information to allow you to enjoy your experience. If you are new to the use of a wetsuit your crew will be on hand to help you out.
#3. CONSERVATION & OUR DOLPHIN PROMISE
If you book with us then you’ll automatically be making a donation to research and education on hector’s dolphins.
Our company was also the first cruise boat company in the world to get the coveted Green Globe 21, an international programme to ensure best environmental practices.
We respect the natural behaviours of Hector’s dolphin and don’t touch or feed them. In the unlikely event that you don’t encounter the Hector’s dolphin on your excursion we’ll give you an Akaroa Nature Re-Cruise voucher so you’ll get another chance to see these amazing creatures.
#4. ALL INCLUSIVE DOLPHIN SWIM
Your booking with us includes a 5mm thick wetsuit hire, hot chocolate and biscuits on the return harbour tour (see below), and hot showers after the swim. All you need is to bring your own towel!
While you’re in the water, our crew will endeavour to take pictures of your magical moment on our camera, and provide you with a download link post-swim.
#5. SMALL GROUP EXCURSIONS in akaroa harbour
With just 12 guests per excursion, our Swimming with Dolphins tours gets you closer to the action.
Each swim is an intimate experience in the Akaroa Harbour. Our specially built boats get near the volcanic cliffs to see NZ Fur Seals and marine birds up close. Our Nature Guide will share the local conservation efforts and how you can help preserve these beautiful creatures.
Every ticket contributes to conservation and comes with our dolphin’s promise