It is important that you read and understand the following terms and conditions. We operate under a permit system that limits the number of swimmers we take out on our vessels. Before making a booking it is essential that you understand the following points. 

Level of Ability Required for Swimming with Dolphins: 

Our dolphin tour is an open ocean experience. For maximum enjoyment, swimmers need to have a reasonable level of snorkelling experience. 

Seasickness: 

  • Because swimming and watching the dusky dolphins takes place in the open ocean, participants must realise that sea conditions vary and can change very quickly. If you suffer from motion sickness, it is advisable that you take something to prevent seasickness. You must also realise that the time spent out on the ocean is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. 
  • Even with the help of medication, there is no guarantee against the effects of motion sickness.     
  • Seasickness is not grounds for seeking a refund for the tour. 

Booking Terms and Conditions:

All tours must be confirmed the day before by 4.00pm. If you are not able to do this, please call to make alternative arrangements. This is very important as at this time we advise you of your reporting time and the expected tour conditions. 

  • 8.30am and 12.30pm reservations  must be secured by credit card. A valid credit card number and expiry date must be supplied to secure your booking space.  

Payment of the Tour:

  • For those booking the 5.30am tour, this tour must be paid for by 4.00pm on the day before your tour, otherwise your booking will be CANCELLED. Once again, if you are unable to comply with this requirement, please contact the office prior to 4.00pm to make alternative arrangements.
  • For those booking a 8.30am or 12.30pm tour, payment is made at check in time. 

 Report Times: 

  • Because our tours are operated on a precise schedule and involve introductory preparation, reporting on time is essential. 
  • Reporting times will be advised when you re-confirm the day before. Failure to report by your scheduled check in time can result in your booking being cancelled. If for some reason you cannot make the check in time, please advise our office to prevent cancellation of your booking.                                                                              
  • Always check your report time as these times are subject to change depending on the location of the dolphins. 

Cancellations:

  • All cancellations and changes to your reservation (8.30am/12.30pm tours)  must be advised before 4pm on the day before your tour.  If you simply fail to show up for a tour and have not advised us of your cancellation, your credit card will be debited the full amount of your booking. 

Children Swimming:

  • Because this is an open ocean experience the age limit for children participating in the swimming with dolphins activity is 8 years of age. Children need to be confident swimmers and it is an advantage if they have snorkelled before. 
  • Management reserve the right to restrict the age limit of those participating on the tour if sea conditions are such that it is not suitable for young children.

Children Watching: 

  • The age limit for this activity is normally 5 years of age. However with the agreement of the skipper and crew, if conditions are deemed suitable, children under the age of 5 years, but no younger than 3 years, may be permitted to take the tour.
  • Management reserve the right to restrict the age limit of those participating on the tour if sea conditions are such that it is not suitable for young children.
  • Child care options can be advised provided sufficient notice is given. 

Sea /  Weather Conditions: 

  • Naturally all tours are dependent on suitable sea and weather conditions. Management reserve the right to cancel tours if these conditions are deemed unsuitable. Please be advised that due to permit restrictions we may not be able to automatically forward you onto the next scheduled tour. 

 

 

 

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Encounter Kaikoura ®

96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
Freephone: 0800 733 365

Phone: +64 3 319 6777 | Fax: +64 3 319 6534
Email: info@encounterkaikoura.co.nz

Translation in Japanese