Water activity

Kaikoura: Whale Watching Cruise

4.4602494 out of 5 stars
4.5
4.4602494 out of 5 stars
2327 reviews
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Water activity
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Cruise
4.4602494 out of 5 stars
4.5
4.4602494 out of 5 stars
2327 reviews
Likely to sell out

Enjoy a unique whale watching experience off the South Island of New Zealand. Experience an up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator, the giant sperm whale. Look out for other wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and birds.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

L
Lavenia – New Zealand

The entire experience was amazing, right from hopping on the bus, to being out at sea. The entire team were extremely friendly, funny (with the commentary) and so informative. Our kids had the experience of listening to the Sperm Whale than you to the Captain ♥️ overall an amazing day and the best way to end our holiday. We will definitely be doing this again 😍

Y
Yinan – Australia

Very lucky to see Sperm Whales, Orcas, dolphins in one time.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Enjoy close encounters with the giant sperm whale
  • See dolphins, seals, and the wandering albatross
  • Admire stunning views of the mountainous coastline

Full description

Take a whale-watching cruise off the Kaikoura coast, and see giant sperm whales in their natural environment. Enjoy onboard commentary as you encounter a range of wildlife, including fur seals, pods of dolphins, and the endangered wandering albatross.
Set sail on a catamaran, equipped with engines that minimize underwater noise and nonpolluting toilets. Take in the views from the large outdoor decks or stay inside the air-conditioned interiors with comfortable seating and plasma screens displaying marine wildlife animations.
Gain an insight into the habitat with scientific information and indigenous knowledge about these creatures from the crew. Passenger numbers are kept well below the vessel's capacity to ensure a more personal experience.

Includes

  • 2-hour cruise
  • Narration by expert crew
  • Award-winning animation
  • Food and drinks

Not suitable for

  • Children under 3 years

Meeting point

The local partner’s office, Whale Watch Kaikōura.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

Not allowed

  • Smoking

Know before you go

  • The minimum age is three years old but the minimum age is subject to the sea and weather conditions at the time of check-in
  • Please note that the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. The local partner will confirm your exact tour time by email after booking
  • Please note that your tour time might be different from the one you request due to availability
  • If you suffer from motion sickness it is recommended to take precautions prior to arriving at the office, motion sickness tablets are available for purchase at the office
  • The amount of time on the water is just over 2-hours and it is recommended to allow 3 hours and 15 minutes for the entire experience including check-in, safety briefing, and bus transfers

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 2327 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.8/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.4/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
L
Lavenia – New ZealandApril 27, 2025 – Verified booking
The entire experience was amazing, right from hopping on the bus, to being out at sea. The entire team were extremely friendly, funny (with the commentary) and so informative. Our kids had the experience of listening to the Sperm Whale than you to the Captain ♥️ overall an amazing day and the best way to end our holiday. We will definitely be doing this again 😍
Y
Yinan – AustraliaApril 26, 2025 – Verified booking
Very lucky to see Sperm Whales, Orcas, dolphins in one time.
H
Ho Lay – New ZealandApril 15, 2025 – Verified booking
The booking process was seamless. The cruise captain was knowledgeable and friendly. No sighting of sperm whale. Auto refund within 3 days as mentioned on website.

Product ID: 226204

Activity provider:Whale Watch Kaikoura

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