E-Ko Tours

I recently went on the E-KO Tours 2-hour cruise in Marlborough, and it was an absolutely amazing experience! Our guide took us on a boat to Kumutoto Bay, where we had the chance to see some incredible wildlife on the way there, including seals, penguins, and various bird species. Although we didn't see any dolphins, the stunning scenery more than made up for it.Once we arrived at the island, we went on a short hike to see a 1000 year old tree, and our guide shared lots of interesting information about the area and its history. We also had the opportunity to spend some time on the peaceful beach and enjoy the regenerating native bush, just relaxing and soaking in the Marlborough Magic.What I really appreciated about this tour was the dedication to conservation - a portion of each tour is given back to local conservation efforts. And to top it all off, we even got to sample some delicious local wine from Yealands. Overall, I would highly recommend E-KO Tours to anyone looking for a fun, informative, and eco-friendly way to experience the beauty of Marlborough. Thank you, E-KO Tours, for an unforgettable adventure!

One of the best things I’ve ever done!At the start it was slow but then 15 minutes in we saw dusky dolphins. We drove for a bit then we spotted a lot of animals we walked out to the front and found Australasian Gannets, NZ fur seals, dusky dolphins and Fluttering Shearwaters! The Australasian gannets were so cool when the do there amazing free fall and they can reach up to 100 km an hour when they hit the water. We stopped at the island for the hour walk and we check the first blue penguin box none then we check the second one none but there was one left but the guide said we will check it on the way down. We got up there and the view was amazing! It was an easy way down the track in my crocs! As the guide checks the last penguin box she said quiet guys there are two blue penguins. As I slowly walked they were so cool. Back on the boat I get a free hot chocolate for walking to the top of the hill. On the way back we saw blue penguins in the water on the way back and a massive group of dolphins. Overall it was worth the money for me definitely recommended :)

Had an amazing day on the water. The Skipper and guide were amazing. Would definitely do it again ! If in Picton don’t miss out !Came back for a Dolphin swim 3 weeks later and had an epic day on the water - Paul is an amazing skipper and Niki is jus as amazing as a guide !

Our Marlborough Sounds Wildlife tour today with Andy, skipper, and Nicky, guide, was top notch.My husband enjoyed were impressed from the moment we checked in to the E-Ko office in Picton due to the warm yet professional greeting, which continued throughout our experience.The tour begins with a briefing on what to expect during the tour and the company’s relationship with government bodies to support wildlife conservation and sustainability.Andy skippered and also commentated with ease and ability.Nicky ensured each and every passenger felt welcomed and included throughout the tour. The couples with young children were accommodated to ensure they, and their young children, had the best time possible while also ensuring safety.Nicky’s commentary was knowledgeable and clear re sustainability and the needs of preserving and protecting wildlife whose very existence is threatened.The boat was comfortable in a modest way, and refreshments were sufficient and well timed.Highly recommend this tour to all - singles, young families and retirees. You will not be disappointed!

We weren't lucky enough to swim with the bottlenose dolphins this time but we did encounter a pod of hector dolphins! Unfortunately due to their size you're not permitted to swim with them but it was fantastic being in their presence they were so playful! Our guide Nikki was absolutely fantastic too and made us feel very welcome on board. Highly recommend a trip with these guys :)

We had a fantastic time with Andy and Shane yesterday who were so welcoming, knowledgeable and informative. They tried their very best to find us some dolphins to swim with but sadly they were not to be found. Despite this we had two amazing interactions with pods of Hector dolphins and a lovely swim with Mullets, Rays and tiny, beautiful (non-stinging) jellyfish. Thanks Andy and Shane. Highly recommended. Bob (UK)

My wife and I took the Wildlife, Beach and Wine cruise on Jan 29/23 when we visited Picton on the Celebrity Eclipse.Despite the weather being a little rainy, Shane and Captain Andy made the tour great! We managed to spot a couple of seals in the water along with multiple sea birds. Shane and Andy's knowledge made the entire trip well worthwhile.On the island, we hiked to a 1,000 year old tree with Shane providing colour commentary of everything along the way.Courtney was the perfect hostess on the return trip, serving delicious NZ wine!Well worth the time when you're in port.Rob and Trish Hall

My children and I had a fantastic morning with Courtney and team today. Friendly, knowledgeable hosts who made us feel very welcome. My 13 year old son was on Fur Seal spotting duty which he loved. The Hectors Dolphins were adorable with their calf and we were very lucky to meet DOC Kiwi Dog Brew on the island with her team. Fully recommend. We will be back!!

Nothing but the best dolphin tour I've ever had in my entire life!It started with a cloudy, grey Friday morning and I did not expect too much. I joined the dolphin encounter group as a viewer" and already enjoyed the boatride itself. The crew understands to keep the motivation since we first "only" saw one young seal jumping around a bit of floating kelp (what was very cute) and a hector dolphin with it's mother.Nobody expected what happened next: An incredible experience with several pots of Hectors ... jumping

We had a great time on our tour! Alice was a brilliant guide and gave us so much info. We saw dolphins, penguins, seals and so many more animals. Would highly recommend!