Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Kaikoura
Viator
Price NZ$169
Min age 3
Rating 4.45 / 5 [2534 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Travel bucket list idea:
Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand
Bucket List Experience
There are many remarkable things about Whale Watch Kaikoura, not least their 95 per cent success rate at finding giant sperm whales – the world’s largest toothed predator – regardless of when you step on board.
The operation is owned by a number of local Maori families and combines state-of-the-art whale finding technology and traditional folklore – and plenty of Maori humour. Passengers are also likely to see other whale species, dolphins, seals and many local seabirds.
Kayaking is another great way to spot whales – as well as dolphins, fur seals and orca. Kaikoura Kayaks offers kayak hire, expert instruction and guided trips along the coast.
Whale Watch Kaikoura is located on the seafront, 10 minutes’ walk from the centre of town. Most people drive or catch the shuttle bus. There are three tours per day (an extra one is added in the summer months), each lasting for about 3 hours. Day-long tours are also available.
Tours operate all year round, as the sperm whales are present all year round, but obviosuly the warmer months of summer, spring and autumn have mroe sunshine, less rain, and clearer skies.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Kaikoura
Viator
Price NZ$169
Min age 3
Rating 4.45 / 5 [2534 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Kaikoura
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Price NZ$300
Min age 3
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
South Islands, New Zealand
Destination guide
A primordial playground with truly spectacular scenery on the grandest scale, outdoor adventure activities galore, colourful and compelling Maori culture and terribly nice Kiwis.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Inspiration
Ranging from the mere 2.5m dwarf sperm whale to the whopping 30m blue whale, these ocean giants beguile and amaze with their size, grace and dignity. Here’s our round-up some of the best places in the world to see them.