Kaikoura with whale watching

Discover one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural phenomena on this full-day tour to the coastal town of Kaikoura, where you’ll embark on an unforgettable whale-watching adventure in the Pacific Ocean.

Kaikoura is renowned as one of the world’s premier sites to observe sperm whales up close all year round. Besides sperm whales, there’s also a good chance to see dolphins, seals, and various seabirds such as albatrosses.

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Christchurch, through the Canterbury Plains and along the coast towards Kaikoura. Here, you’ll join a guided whale-watching tour by boat, where modern technology and experienced guides ensure the best opportunities to see the whales – and you’ll learn a great deal about their behaviour and way of life.

After the whale-watching, lunch is included at a local café in Kaikoura, allowing you to savour the region’s specialties.

Before returning to Christchurch, you’ll visit a seal colony, where you can see New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat. The seals are often seen basking on the rocks, and you might also catch them playing in the water. The numbers vary throughout the year.

If time permits, there will be a stop at a vineyard, where a small wine tasting will be arranged.

You’ll be back at your hotel in Christchurch between 6 and 7 p.m.

Start and ending point: Your hotel or a nearby collection point (address and time indicated on your voucher).

Duration: Approximately 10–11 hours.

Group size: Maximum 35 people. However, there may be more participants on the whale watching tour – maximum 116 people.

The price includes: Transport, guided whale-watching tour by boat, lunch, and guide.

Remember to bring: Weather-appropriate clothing (a wind and waterproof jacket is recommended for the whale-watching tour), sunglasses, camera, and potentially seasickness tablets.

Note: The tour departs daily except for December 25^th. A minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour to proceed (minimum 6 people in February and March). If the minimum is not met, you will, of course, be refunded.
This excursion is not suitable for young children. The minimum age for participation is 3 years old.
Depending on weather and sea conditions, the whale watching tour may be altered or cancelled. In such cases, an alternative program or refund will be offered.
Remember, although sightings are likely, whales live freely. Therefore, we cannot guarantee you will see them.

Please inform us of any allergies or dietary preferences when booking the excursion.