During the summer months (about mid Nov-May) the Eastern Bay of Plenty becomes home to 1000's of Dolphins and many Whales.

Attracted by the hatch of pilchards and anchovies (Baitfish) as they emerge from the sea floor to breed near the surface. These baitfish are herded by Pelagics like Skipjack and Yellowfin Tuna which ride the East Australian current and form 'Meatballs'(tight balls of baitfish on or near the surface) The meatballs provide easy food for Dolphins.

Annual Dolphin numbers in the area and the length of time they stay vary with the amount of baitfish and pelagic's present that summer season. They are not here year round.

Whilst we can not always guarantee Dolphin sightings or opportunities to swim with them, when we do, the action is often exciting and frenzied and will always be remembered.

In the Eastern Bay of Plenty we encounter mainly Common and Bottlenose Dolphins. We sometimes see a variety of whale species including: Orca (killer whales), Brydes, Pilot, Minke, Finn, and occasionally the Blue Whale. We also encounter blue penguins, gannets, various sea birds and the New Zealand fur seal (Kekeno).

Common dolphins are spectacular performers and love human company. They enjoy riding the pressure waves produced by boats.

If sea conditions are comfortable and at the skippers' discretion you can swim with them. If you prefer to stay on board and enjoy the water antics from above, you are welcome to do so.

While swimming or watching you might also see, feeding Marlin, Tuna and Sharks. Wow! We also share the waters with the many Sports fisherman who come to the area.

Will we always see Dolphins?

Sorry, We can not guarantee to locate marine mammals on every voyage as they are living in their own environment,

Boundaries

The area in which we are permitted to operate by the Department of Conservation is restricted East to a line from Ohiwa Harbour entrance to White Island. We will not cross East of this line to view Dolphins.

Can we always swim with them?

There is a need to protect dolphins and not interfere with their natural behavior. there is No Guarantee we will swim with dolphins on every trip. Most importantly we are not permitted to interfere with the bonding between a mother and her young. Therefore, some trips will become viewing only. As tours operate in the open ocean they are subject to the elements of open water, swell and wind. These conditions can result in clients becoming seasick and suitable precautions should be taken by those who are susceptible.

The numbers of people swimming with the dolphins is limited by the Department of Conservation to 10 persons per trip.

We are also limited to 3 swimming attempts per trip with a maximum duration of 30mins.

Swimming is not permitted when dependent calves are in a pod.

And due to local Maori protocol - Persons emitting any bodily fluids are not permitted to swim with Dolphins.

What If we don't see any Dolphins?

You Pay for our expertise and our service. If we don't see any Dolphins within 2- 2 1/2 hours the trip may become a Moutohora or Rurima Island Eco Tour.

Beautiful Moutohora Island is 6kms from Whakatane. A wildlife sanctuary rejuvenated with New Zealand rare flora and Fauna. During a visit there we show you the famous Elephant Statue. We skillfully glide into spectacular Cathedral Arch.

Enjoy a short stopover at Sulphur Bay a Geothermal beach(skippers choice) to explore the Geothermal activity, go snorkeling, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. On our cruise we pass birds nesting and seals resting in secluded bays.

Do I need any previous snorkeling experience?

Your first Dolphin swim in the open ocean is not the time or place to learn how to snorkel. Swimmers need to be able to swim well enough to look after themselves in the water and should have some prior experience. Each child must be accompanied in the water by an adult and swim at skippers discretion.

What Training will I get?

A briefing is given together with a familiarization audio visual display at Diveworks Booking Office before the trip takes place, then swimmers are fitted with wetsuits & snorkeling gear and instructed on how to behave while interacting with the dolphins.

Commentary:

A full commentary is provided in English. Printed guide sheets are available in English.

Are there any dangers like sharks?

Tours are run in the open ocean and any venture involving the open ocean has an element of risk.

Although we may be fortunate enough to see sharks the biggest danger we are likely to encounter while at sea is sunburn.

When do we operate and where from?

We operate seven days a week, weather and conditions permitting.

Whakatane Harbor has a narrow bar entrance which can become unnavigable in certain weather and tide conditions. Unfortunately trips might sometimes have to be postponed or canceled at short notice due to this.

Remember that the skipper has to be mindful of conditions on return as well as departure.

Departures are generally in the morning but are subject to change depending on weather and demand.

We meet at our booking office: 86 the Strand (The Yellow One), Whakatane (opposite the Whakatane Hotel and 30 seconds from the Information Center.

Free 'ALL DAY PARKING' can usually be had within 10 – 250mtrs from our Office.

Our vessels usually depart from 'THE GREEN WHARF' also located within 50 metres from our office, however on occassions we may depart from our overnight berth in the main wharf near the Sport Fishing Club

Our Boats and crew

We are %100 locally owned and operated with 20 years of local marine knowledge and experience.

Diveworks 1 (10.1 meter Aluminium mono hull)

Fully Surveyed (Maximum 15 passengers )

Has a Toilet facility

Full safety equipment (Life Jackets all sizes, life rings, Epirb, Marine Radios etc)on board

How do I book?

Please make your bookings in advance to avoid disappointment.

Bookings can be made directly at our booking office 86 The Strand (The Yellow One)

By Phone (07) 308 5896  or Mobile 027 628 0849

through our website www.whaleislandtours.com

or by email at Bookings@whaleislandtours.com

We accept Cash, cheque, Eftpos, Bartercard and major credit cards.

Refund Policy

Full refund if we cancel

Half refund if you cancel less than 18 hours before departure

No refund if we don't see Dolphins.

Trip Duration and times:
       3-4 hours.

Reporting Time:

30 minutes prior to departure. Swimmers

Rates

We offer group booking discounts for direct bookings. Please call us for more details

Equipment:

Wetsuits and snorkel gear are supplied for swimmers.

Things to bring

Towel, swimming gear (wear your swimsuit under your clothes for convenient changing), hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, cameras , long sleeve shirt/cover up, lunch.

After the Swim

warm rinse shower is available after swimming. Complimentary tea/coffee is usually served after a swim takes place, or alternatively, at the end of the tour back at our office at 86 The Strand..

Please note our terms and conditions:

Diveworks Charters will exercise due care and responsibility at all times, but can not accept any responsibility for any loss or personal injury suffered by you, "or your party you sign on behalf of", in undertaking any voyage.

It is "your responsibility" to inform us of any medical condition that you may have, or of any medication you may require.

Diveworks Charters are the holders of a Marine Mammal watching concession issued by the Department of Conservation. All vessels used are Surveyed by the Maritme Safety Authority for Passenger service and Skippers and crews are appropriately qualified.