Frequently asked questions.

Planning Your SWIM (Before You Go)

Do I need to be able to swim?

YES. You need to be confident in the water and capable of swimming at least 50 metres. If you cannot swim you can still join us on the boat as a watcher. Obviously, the water is over your head and a degree of confidence in swimming is required. Please note, life jackets are not provided while you are in the water. Customers must declare any pre-existing medical conditions which may limit their participation.

What happens if no dolphins are sighted, or we can't swim with them?

Hector’s dolphins are wild and protected – every swim is on their terms. While we have a very high success rate, swims sometimes can’t go ahead due to dolphin behaviour. If this happens, your tour still includes:

• A small-group cruise of the stunning Akaroa Harbour

• Expert commentary from your skipper and nature guide

• Opportunities to view dolphins, fur seals, and birdlife from the boat

• Hot chocolate, biscuits, and full use of wetsuit/shower facilities

You’ll also receive a free Akaroa Nature Cruise voucher to come back another time and enjoy the harbour.

We do not offer refunds for non-weather related reasons, as the tour experience is priced to reflect all of the above, not just the swim.

Why are refunds not offered for no swims?

Our swim is a nature-based experience. Due to Hector’s dolphins being wild and protected, although we have a high success rate of 70-80%, we cannot control their behaviour or guarantee that swimming will occur.

The pricing reflects:

• An intimate small-group setting

• Experienced Nature Guide commentary and boat tour

• Wildlife viewing opportunities

• Premium gear and amenities

You’ll also receive a free Akaroa Nature Cruise voucher to come back another time and enjoy the harbour.

We do not offer refunds, as the tour experience is priced to reflect all of the above not just the swim.

In circumstances of weather disruptions, we will offer a full refund or a rescheduling of your booking.

What if the weather is bad?

If sea or weather conditions are deemed unsafe, we may cancel the tour. In this case, you’ll be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.

What do I need to bring?

Just bring your swimming costume and a towel. Your phone, sunblock and water bottle are not essential but advisable. Everything else is provided for you including a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, booties, gloves and a hood if necessary. You can hire or purchase a towel from us if you forget to bring one.

What if I suffer from seasickness or asthma?

If you are prone to suffer from sea sickness we advise taking an anti-sea sickness tablet before checking in for your swim. Different varieties take different amounts of time to start working so make sure you give yourself this time before heading out on the water. We also offer pressure point wrist bands, however, it is best to attempt to stop the potential sea sickness before it starts. If you suffer from asthma it is essential to bring your inhaler with you to take out on the boat for your own safety.

Can I touch or feed the dolphins?

No. These dolphins have extremely sensitive skin and a slight touch may bruise or hurt the dolphin. A nail may scratch the surface of their skin causing infections.

Are the dolphins wild?

Yes, all Hector’s dolphins encountered are wild and act on their own terms.

Do we feed them?

No. We must not disturb their natural diet and feeding habits.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. If you are swimming you must be at least 8 years old. Children between 8 and 12 inclusive must also be accompanied by an adult swimmer. If you are booking with us as a spectator there is no age restriction. Please see the child swimmer info below.

Can children swim with the dolphins?

Yes – Children can swim, but there are some rules:

• Children must be aged 8 years or older.

• Children aged 8-12 years old must be accompanied by an Adult swimmer in the water.

• All Children (16 years or younger) must be accompanied (on the vessel) by an Adult or guardian 18 years or older.

• Children must be fit and confident swimmers – our swim experience takes place in the ocean.

Are there sharks?

We have been operating dolphin swimming for 20 years now and have never had a problem with sharks. Generally if there are sharks around then the dolphins will be nowhere to be seen.

How cold is the water?

Summer water temperatures average around 17 °C, dropping to 11 °C in winter. High-quality wetsuits (plus booties, gloves, and hoods when needed) are provided to keep you warm.

What if I have a disability?

In order to provide the best advice please call the wharf to enquire (0800 436 574) before booking.

We have hosted many customers with disabilities, however, it is our duty to ensure the care and safety of our guests with the utmost respect and understanding.

If you have a strong support swimmer and have experience swimming in the ocean then it may be possible. Our swim boats are not accessible by wheelchairs so a degree of mobility is required to board the vessel. If we feel safety is compromised then a swim will not be possible.

Is it true you can’t swim with dolphins in New Zealand?

You may have recently been alerted to the news that a swimming with dolphins operator in the Bay of Islands (North Island, New Zealand) has recently ended its tourism operation due to the declining numbers of Bottlenose dolphins.

This is isolated to the Bay of Islands only. Black Cat Cruises Swimming with Dolphins experience in Akaroa (South Island, New Zealand) continues to operate as normal as our Hector’s dolphin population remains stable.

Black Cat Cruises prides itself on working with dolphin researchers to ensure the Hector’s dolphin population is protected and cared for. As the largest tourism operator in Banks Peninsula and one with a strong reliance on our natural environment, we strive to be a leader in environment management programmes.

How long is the full experience?

The total duration is about 3.5 hours including approximately 30 minutes for briefing and gearing up, around 2.5 hours on the water, with the swim and wildlife viewing, followed by about 30 minutes afterwards for changing and hot showers.

How long do I spend in the water?

Swimmers typically spend 20 to 45 minutes in the water, with a maximum of 45 minutes permitted by Department of Conservation regulations.

How close do dolphins usually come?

Dolphins may swim up very close, sometimes within a metre, on their own terms. While there's no guarantee of close contact, our small group size (max 12 swimmers) increases the chance of personal interactions.

How many dolphins might I see in a pod?

While group sizes vary, it's common to encounter pods of around 5–6 Hector’s dolphins. Black Cat also works closely with researchers to help support a stable population.

Why are there strict rules about touching or feeding?

Touching can damage the sensitive skin of these wild dolphins, and feeding can disrupt their natural diet and behaviour. Any interaction must comply with Department of Conservation (DOC) guidelines to protect their wellbeing at all times.

Do guides help with in-water photos?

Our Nature Guides aim to capture moments during the swim for you to download after the tour. While not guaranteed, many guests appreciate the photo support.

What marine wildlife might we see besides dolphins?

Tours frequently include views of NZ fur seals, seabirds and, occasionally, rarer species like penguins. Exploring Akaroa’s volcanic cliffs adds a scenic bonus.

Are there Akaroa tours from Christchurch?

A: Yes, many visitors travel to Akaroa from Christchurch via tour or on a shuttle bus. The most convenient option for a shuttle bus service is The French Connection bus, which offers comfortable return trips daily, making it easy to enjoy Swimming with Dolphins as a day trip. The scenic drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. Options for day tours include, Cheeky Kea Travel, Leisure Tours and Kiwi Experience.

What is the best time to swim with dolphins in Akaroa?

Hector's dolphins are present in Akaroa Harbour year-round. Swimming with Dolphins operates from Sept - April.

Are your tours eco-friendly or certified by any organisations?

Yes, Black Cat Cruises was actually the first eco-tourism operator in New Zealand! We are Qualmark Gold for Sustainability, Department of Conservation Approved, SMART operator and MOSS Approved for Marine Safety. We proudly uphold the Tiaki Promise, a commitment to act as guardians of this special place for both present and future generations. By travelling responsibly with us, you help protect the land, sea, and wildlife of Akaroa and beyond.