Whale Watching · KAIKOURA
The 4 best Kaikoura whale watching tours you can book today, with what each costs, how long it stays out and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason, so start there.
Set out from Whale Watch Kaikōura for just over two hours on the water, using a quiet catamaran to seek giant sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and albatross. Expect Māori and scientific insight, outdoor viewing decks, indoor screens, and a crew that may include guides such as Caolan or Mikayla.
“Incredible. We saw 2 different whales and we saw one of them twice as well as a great dolphin show!”
Cruise Kaikoura’s offshore waters aboard a purpose-built catamaran, with marine-life commentary, onboard animations, and a short bus transfer to the marina. Expect sperm whales, dolphins, seals, albatross, and other seabirds. The trip lasts about 3.5 hours, with up to 2.5 hours on the water.
“Don't expect whale sightings you see on tv. It was limited to backs, spouts and sometimes a head or a tail.”
From Kaikoura Airport, Air Kaikoura takes you over the Pacific in a small plane with a window seat for every passenger. Your pilot guides the search for sperm whales, dolphins, orcas, and other marine life, then circles for clear views of the coast, reefs, and mountains.
“From the moment I arrived at the airfield to the moment I left it, everything was so professional. Got to sit up front with our pilot Ben. He was both friendly & knowledgeable… Stunning scenery & the icing was seeing ‘The Chief’.. one of the biggest & oldest Sperm Whales in the area. It’s a roll of the dice if you get to see them but just for once, it was my turn to hit the jackpot. W Worth every dollar. Would totally recommend to anyone. Just the flight alone I felt was worth the cost.”
Join Air Kaikōura for a 40-minute flight over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve and coastal waters near Kaikōura. Every passenger gets a window seat and live pilot commentary. Pilots such as Ben and Alex work with whale locations and flight timing to give both sides a fair view.
“Was fun to see a whale and dolphins from a bird's-eye view. Smooth start and landing. We felt safe the whole time”
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