Whale Watch Kaikoura

Christchurch



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Whale Watch has a 95% success rate in finding whales on every trip. In addition, if you don't see a whale on your trip, Whale Watch will refund 80% of your ticket.

Award-winning whale tourism company in Kaikōura with 30 years’ experience, offering comprehensive marine excursions all year round.

Visitors will be taken out in a modern catamaran, in search of not just whales, but many of the dozens of amazing creatures which inhabit these waters.  The star of the show is the Giant Sperm Whale.  Although this is the highlight of the trip, a number of different species of whales may be seen, depending on the season, as they follow their migratory route.

This unique marine experience also provides the opportunity to sight the high spirited displays of the dusky dolphins, the rare and endangered hectors dolphin, New Zealand fur seals and a wide variety of sea birds including the royal albatross.

Their modern catamarans minimise underwater noise and use toilets that never pollute the sea.  The main passenger cabin is enclosed while the outside decks provide fantastic viewing and photo opportunities.  The spacious air-conditioned interiors are fitted with large plasma screens displaying award-winning animations.  Children, especially, will be spellbound as they learn about how sperm whales live in the dark and how giant squid hunt for food.

Whale Watch vessels are crewed by a friendly team of skippers and guides who are fully trained in all aspects of safety. The staff constantly monitor the weather and respond professionally to any changes.  This may mean a tour is cancelled or safety restrictions placed on children or passengers with medical problems. Passenger comfort and safety are always the priority.

Next to the Whale Watch Station is the Flukes Cafe, where you can find delicious hot and cold food and drink. The gift shop offers some fantastic souvenirs to remind you of your close encounter with the whales and dolphins.

As a Māori-owned company, Whale Watch cherishes the twin values of hospitality to visitors and reverence for the natural world. It is a philosophy that embraces people, the land, the sea and all living things as one.

Pricing:

Please visit Whale Watch Kaikoura for bookings and latest price information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whale Watch Kaikōura is located at The Whaleway Station on Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura. A large customer car park is available during daylight hours.
Whale Watch Kaikōura operates tours every day except Christmas Day, subject to suitable sea and weather conditions and minimum passenger numbers.
Whale watching tour prices start from NZ$185 for adults and NZ$60 for children aged 3–15 in the Ocean Cabin. VIP Captain's Cabin fares start from NZ$265. Prices may change.
Children aged three and over can join Whale Watch Kaikōura tours. Children under three years old are not permitted on the whale watching experience.
The full Whale Watch Kaikōura experience takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including check-in and transfers. Passengers spend just over two hours on the water.
Passengers should arrive at The Whaleway Station 30 minutes before their scheduled departure for check-in. Check-in closes five minutes before departure.
Yes. Whale Watch Kaikōura tours are popular, particularly during busy travel periods, so advance booking is recommended to secure a preferred departure time.
Whale sightings cannot be guaranteed because the whales are wild animals in their natural environment. Whale Watch Kaikōura has a reported success rate of over 90%, with an 80% fare refund applying if no whale is seen.
Kaikōura whale watching tours can encounter Giant Sperm Whales throughout the year, as well as seasonal species including Humpback, Pilot, Blue, Southern Right and Fin Whales and Orca.
Wheelchair users may be able to join a Whale Watch Kaikōura tour when sea conditions are suitable. Mobility restrictions may apply depending on the conditions and safety requirements.

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