Swimming with Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is a big summer activity in the Bay of Plenty. Most cruises leave from the Tauranga Bridge Marina. Bookings are essential and should be arranged at least one day prior. The Department of Conservation licenses and regularly inspects operators and sets limits on the number of boats allowed around any pod of dolphins.

Dolphin Blue. Aside from the dolphins, a highlight of this trip is the classic, 54-foot wooden launch you sail in. It makes a comfortable trip out to dolphin world (keeping in mind the cruise travels into open waters). Small groups, no more than 15, provide an intimate, boutique experience on the water. Trips leave Tauranga at 8:30 am and return at about 4 pm. Skipper Paul will give a talk first setting out clearly what you can expect during this long day on the water. The vessel is fitted with a "swim rope" for you to hold while the dolphins dart around you. They also have a couple of kayaks on board, and might pull into an island for guests to have a paddle, while waiting for dolphins to show. As with other such tours, if no dolphins or whales are spotted you can return for a free trip, with no time restriction on when you do. Sulphur Point Marina, Keith Allen Dr., Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, 3110. 027/666–8047; www.dolphinblue.co.nz. NZ$150.

Dolphin Seafaris. Dolphin Seafaris will really look after you on your dolphin encounter. Wet suits, dive gear, and towels, plus warm muffins, juices, and hot drinks, are included for a trip leaving at 8 am (from Tauranga, a bit later from Mt. Maunganui) and back around 1 pm. All guides are qualified marine biologists. Donations from every booking goes toward prevention of the slaughter of dolphins and whales. Bookings are essential. Phone ahead for daily departure times from the Tauranga Bridge Marina. September to November is whale migration season. You'll likely see as many whales as dolphins. Berth D1, Tauranga Bridge Marina, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, 3141. 07/577–0105; 0800/326–8747; www.nzdolphin.com. NZ$150.