Dolphins of the Marlborough Sounds

Five species of dolphin can be seen in the Queen Charlotte Sound. The most common species being the endangered Hector's dolphin and dusky dolphin, and the less common being the orca and (surprisingly) the common dolphin. There's a fairly good chance that any time of the year you head out on the water at least one of these species will be encountered. Summer is the best time to see Hector's dolphins on a regular basis and common dolphins or orca if you are lucky. Winter is when the acrobatic dusky dolphins visit the Marlborough Sounds and can be seen in large groups.

Hector's dolphin making eye contact

Hector's dolphin breaking the surface

Bottlenose dolphins

Common dolphin

Juvenile common dolphin (displaying more muted markings than the adults)

Dusky dolphin breaking the surface

Dusky dolphin showing its characteristic dark-tipped beak