Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour: Discover Marine Life and Scenic Views

Embark on a thrilling whale-watching adventure in Kaikoura, New Zealand. Discover majestic Sperm Whales, playful dolphins, and adorable seals while enjoying stunning views of the Kaikoura Ranges. End the day with a scenic drive and a wine tasting experience.

Duration: 11 hours
Cancellation: 6 days
Highlights
  • Kaikōra - Your day starts with pickup from your Christchurch hotel, then travel in a comfortable coach for about 2.5 hours to reach Kaikoura, taking a scenic road through the North Canterbury region.
What's Included
  • View fur seal colonies up close
  • Experience whale watching on a boat tour
  • Enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned vehicles
  • Explore North Canterbury vineyards with wine tasting (subject to availability)
  • Savor lunch (available with selected options)
  • Benefit from live commentary during the tour
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Experience the natural treasures of New Zealand on a whale-watching cruise from the picturesque town of Kaikoura. Look for the mighty Sperm Whales that live in these waters along with Dusky Dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and Seabirds. Admire breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges during your free time in Kaikoura’s township and visit a


Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Customer Ratings
4.3
(156 Ratings)
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Dreamer599521
Jun 17, 2025
Great whale-watching round-trip from Christchurch. - This trip was super well-organized. The driver, Jude (from Leisure Tours, the local company), was fantastic and flexible. She arrived on time and everything unfolded on schedule. The boat crew from Whale Watch was very knowledgeable, very helpful and caring and went above and beyond to make sure we all had a great experience! Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Geraldine_t
Jun 12, 2025
Awesome tour! - Well organised. Stephanie kept us safe throughout the journey. We saw 2 sperm whales, 1 humpback whale & dolphins.
Review provided by Viator
Caitlin_p
May 8, 2025
Good trip - Good trip, well organised. Saw lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery! Take precautions if you get sea sick!
Review provided by Viator
Dawn_g
Apr 26, 2025
The whales were not in... - The whales were not in the area, so we had to pivot at the last minute and do the swim with the dolphin experience. They did not offer the swim experience, but a chance to be on the dolphin boat and observe. It turned out to be a fantastic day and we saw many dolphin. You do need to go with a good attitude and be open to a changing itinerary
Review provided by Viator
Andre_m
Apr 17, 2025
Thank you Andrew the best - Whale fish spotting was cancelled and of course we will disappointed. But the Great man Andrew our guide Made it very nice for us and booked us on a trip with Dolphins and that was great. After that he also show us Sea Lions and that was great. Thank you so much Andrew your the man.awesome man Thanks so much you are the best!!!!!!!!!
Review provided by Viator
Mari_m
Apr 15, 2025
Whale watching is a great experience - The tour is well prepared, whale watching is a great experience. The catamaran is equipment to follow the whales sound, so it is quite guaranteed to seethe whales, a lot of information is given about whales.
Review provided by Viator
Subh_g
Apr 9, 2025
A great day trip - Although a long day it was an enjoyable trip . Guide was friendly and informative . Boat was in good condition and all staff very attentive . Will definitely recommend the tour
Review provided by Viator
Georgina_m
Mar 29, 2025
Jude our guide was... - Jude our guide was brilliant pointing out all the different things to us on the way. Everything was seamless. The whale trip was amazing and we saw a sperm whale and loads of dolphins an amazing sight. Would definitely recommend this trip.
Review provided by Viator
Gwen_g
Jun 11, 2025
Small group... - Small group Knowledgeable guide Gorgeous scenery Decent food Saw 2 sperm whales and tails, 1 humpback whale and Hectors dolphins Fast boat, very knowledgeable crew No food or drinks on board Lots of drive time
Review provided by Viator
Karen_h
Apr 5, 2025
Whale Watching from Christchurch - It’s a long bumpy ride from Christchurch and sea can be rough. The vehicle we travelled in was fairly small and cramped as full on our trip. Would recommend staying in Kaikora and taking trip locally.
Review provided by Viator
From $220
up to 9 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 6 days before the start of your experience (local time).