Guaranteed sighting of at least one whale or 80% refund!

Great for: Wildlife lovers and families seeking a safe, educational cruise with a 95% success rate in spotting majestic whales in their natural environment.
Everything you get: A 2.5-hour cruise on a modern catamaran with air-conditioned cabins, outdoor decks, and expert commentary. Includes a “World of Whales” presentation. Upgrade for VIP priority boarding, premium seating, and captain’s deck access.
Why choose this: Risk-free experience with guaranteed sightings and eco-conscious operations.

Inclusions

3-hour whale-watching cruise in Kaikoura
Full-tour English narration
Access to outside decks
Marine wildlife presentation
Free Wi-Fi aboard the cruise
Access to captain's cabin alongside captain and watchkeeper (if option selected)
Small group of up to 12 people (if option selected)
Priority boarding and transport (if option selected)
Business-class seating (if option selected)
Access to all other passenger areas (if option selected)
Locally-made food boxes and cold drinks (if option selected)
Exclusive viewing area on the top deck (if option selected)

Requests to upgrade bookings after the tour check-in begins will not include a food pack.
Children aged 3 years old and under are restricted from this experience.
If you're booking seating in the VIP Captain's cabin, please make a note of any food allergies at the time of booking so these can be catered for accordingly.
The schedule is subject to change. Factors such as weather, technical disruptions, marine mammal availability, and minimum passenger numbers may necessitate adjustments.
Whale sightings are not guaranteed. However, if no whales are observed during the tour, 80% of the tour cost will be refunded. For clarity, 'whale' encompasses all species defined as such under the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992, including baleen, sperm, beaked, killer, and pilot whales.
For the safety of all passengers, including those using wheelchairs, the captain will assess sea conditions. If conditions are suitable, wheelchair access is provided. However, if conditions are deemed unsafe, mobility restrictions may be implemented.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sustainable whale viewing from a high-wing aircraft with clear views!

Great for: Eco‑conscious travelers and families seeking expansive, high‑altitude whale sighting opportunities over vast distances.
Everything you get: Choose between a 30‑minute flight or a 45‑minute flight with an added mountain tour; both include a guaranteed window seat, live pilot commentary, and full safety equipment.
Why choose this: You'll get an unobstructed, sustainable aerial perspective that maximizes your chances to spot marine giants and Kaikoura from above.

Inclusions

30 or 45-minute Kaikoura whale-watching flight (based on option selected)
Scenic mountain tour over Kaikoura Ranges (if option selected)
15-min pre-flight information and safety briefing
Life jacket and safety equipment

Tip: Bring polarized sunglasses to help reduce glare on the water's surface, making it easier to spot whales and other marine life beneath the surface.
Each adult can accompany only 1 infant under 3 years old.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests over the weight of 135kg (297.62lb).
This experience is wheelchair accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Flexible flight options for thrilling aerial whale encounters.

Great for: Adventurers and photographers looking for a tailored flight experience over Kaikoura’s marine world, with options from quick viewings to mountain landings.
Everything you get: A guided whale-watching flight with live commentary and window seats. Choose Classic (30 min), Extended (40 min) for extra sightings, or Top ‘n’ Tail (60 min) with a scenic mountain landing.
Why choose this: Maximize your viewing time and customize your aerial adventure over whales and stunning landscapes.

Inclusions

30/40/60-minute Kaikoura whale-watching helicopter flight (based on option selected)
Live commentary from pilot
Headset with microphone for the helicopter flight
Alpine landing on Kaikoura Seaward Ranges (if option selected)

Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins – they sometimes join the whale-watching party.
This experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
For the helicopter flight, the maximum permitted passenger weight is 136 kg (300 lbs).
Flights may be affected by weather conditions and the need to meet minimum passenger numbers.
For safety and compliance with aircraft specifications, weight restrictions apply to all passengers. The pilot has the authority to determine passenger seating based on the helicopter's weight and balance parameters.
This experience requires a minimum of 2 guests and will have a maximum of 6 guests.
Guests will receive a headset equipped with a microphone, enabling direct communication with the pilot.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Award-winning whale watch day trip with seamless transfers from Christchurch!

Great for: Christchurch travelers wanting a complete, hassle‑free day trip that combines wildlife viewing with scenic rural drives and cultural stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip hotel transfers, an award-winning whale watch tour with live animation sequences, a visit to a fur seal colony, and a vineyard stop for wine tasting.
Why choose this: Enjoy a fully curated Kaikoura adventure where every detail is handled so you can focus on nature, culture, and unforgettable scenic experiences.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Kaikoura from Christchurch
Round-trip hotel transfers in AC coach from Christchurch
English-speaking guide
Kaikoura whale-watching tour by boat
Fur seal colony viewing
Vineyard visit and wine tasting (if time permits)

Exclusions

Lunch (available to purchase onsite)

Tip: Watch for the "blow" (puff of air) before whales come to the surface. It's your cue to snap pics! The blow is V-shaped for sperm whales and heart-shaped for humpbacks.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
While there is no lunch provided, the tour will stop at a cafe where you can purchase lunch.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Transportation is wheelchair accessible.
This trip accommodates 35 participants.
Wineries close at 5pm daily and on some holidays as well. In such cases, a stop may not be possible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

All-inclusive, eco-friendly tour with wildlife, culture, and cuisine.

Great for: Christchurch visitors wanting a relaxed, fully guided journey that blends wildlife encounters with scenic stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip minivan transport from Christchurch, coastal stops at Cheviot, a local guide, a fish & chips lunch, snacks, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and USB charging. With a bonus wine tasting in Waipara if time allows.
Why choose this: A stress-free day trip without the hassle of planning transportation, meals, and activities so that you can enjoy Kaikoura’s marine life and local flavors.

Inclusions

Full-day tour to Kaikoura
Round-trip transfers from MP Christchurch Bus Interchange by luxury minivan
English-speaking guide
Small group of up to 16 people
Whale-watching cruise
Lunch at Kaikoura fish and chip shop
Wine-tasting at Waipara
Kiwi snacks
Bottled water
WiFi, USB charging ports on minivan

Tip: Watch for a whale's diving sequence: back arching, frequent spouts, then head lifting. This 3-minute pattern signals the moment to photograph its tail fluke.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.
Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 16 people.
Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under the age of 18 years.
If you have specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, let us know at the time of booking.
This experience is weather-dependent. You can reschedule or receive a full refund if it's canceled due to inclement weather.
This experience requires a minimum number of participants. If the minimum is not met and the experience is canceled, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Paddle with seals in their natural habitat for an intimate wildlife experience!

Great for: Active travelers and families wanting a safe, hands-on marine wildlife experience without barriers.
Everything you get: A 3-hour guided kayak tour with full gear, safety briefing, expert naturalist guide, and guaranteed seal encounters. Upgrades include tandem kayaks for families or sunset paddling.
Why choose this: Intimate, low-impact adventure where seals swim right up to your kayak for a natural, respectful wildlife encounter that's more intimate than any boat tour can offer.

Inclusions

3-hour whale-watching kayaking experience in Kaikoura
All kayaking equipment (paddle jackets, wet shoes, spray skirts, dry pants, gloves, and hats over the winter months)
English-speaking guide and instructor
Family-friendly kayaking with 1 guide for each family (if option selected)
Sunset hours kayaking (if option selected)

Tip: Even if you're not a morning person, join the 8:30am tour for the best interactions with marine life.
The guided family kayaking tour requires a minimum of 2 guests.
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Guests in this sea kayaking tour should understand that adventure activities carry inherent risks. These risks may include property damage, personal injury, weather-related illness, drowning, death, and environmental factors such as sunburn, dehydration, hyperthermia, and exhaustion.
The sunset kayaking experience will accommodate a maximum of 24 guests.
This is a weather-dependent activity. Cancellations due to poor weather result in rescheduling or a full refund.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guaranteed sighting of at least one whale or 80% refund!

Great for: Wildlife lovers and families seeking a safe, educational cruise with a 95% success rate in spotting majestic whales in their natural environment.
Everything you get: A 2.5-hour cruise on a modern catamaran with air-conditioned cabins, outdoor decks, and expert commentary. Includes a “World of Whales” presentation. Upgrade for VIP priority boarding, premium seating, and captain’s deck access.
Why choose this: Risk-free experience with guaranteed sightings and eco-conscious operations.

Inclusions

3-hour whale-watching cruise in Kaikoura
Full-tour English narration
Access to outside decks
Marine wildlife presentation
Free Wi-Fi aboard the cruise
Access to captain's cabin alongside captain and watchkeeper (if option selected)
Small group of up to 12 people (if option selected)
Priority boarding and transport (if option selected)
Business-class seating (if option selected)
Access to all other passenger areas (if option selected)
Locally-made food boxes and cold drinks (if option selected)
Exclusive viewing area on the top deck (if option selected)

Requests to upgrade bookings after the tour check-in begins will not include a food pack.
Children aged 3 years old and under are restricted from this experience.
If you're booking seating in the VIP Captain's cabin, please make a note of any food allergies at the time of booking so these can be catered for accordingly.
The schedule is subject to change. Factors such as weather, technical disruptions, marine mammal availability, and minimum passenger numbers may necessitate adjustments.
Whale sightings are not guaranteed. However, if no whales are observed during the tour, 80% of the tour cost will be refunded. For clarity, 'whale' encompasses all species defined as such under the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992, including baleen, sperm, beaked, killer, and pilot whales.
For the safety of all passengers, including those using wheelchairs, the captain will assess sea conditions. If conditions are suitable, wheelchair access is provided. However, if conditions are deemed unsafe, mobility restrictions may be implemented.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sustainable whale viewing from a high-wing aircraft with clear views!

Great for: Eco‑conscious travelers and families seeking expansive, high‑altitude whale sighting opportunities over vast distances.
Everything you get: Choose between a 30‑minute flight or a 45‑minute flight with an added mountain tour; both include a guaranteed window seat, live pilot commentary, and full safety equipment.
Why choose this: You'll get an unobstructed, sustainable aerial perspective that maximizes your chances to spot marine giants and Kaikoura from above.

Inclusions

30 or 45-minute Kaikoura whale-watching flight (based on option selected)
Scenic mountain tour over Kaikoura Ranges (if option selected)
15-min pre-flight information and safety briefing
Life jacket and safety equipment

Tip: Bring polarized sunglasses to help reduce glare on the water's surface, making it easier to spot whales and other marine life beneath the surface.
Each adult can accompany only 1 infant under 3 years old.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests over the weight of 135kg (297.62lb).
This experience is wheelchair accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Flexible flight options for thrilling aerial whale encounters.

Great for: Adventurers and photographers looking for a tailored flight experience over Kaikoura’s marine world, with options from quick viewings to mountain landings.
Everything you get: A guided whale-watching flight with live commentary and window seats. Choose Classic (30 min), Extended (40 min) for extra sightings, or Top ‘n’ Tail (60 min) with a scenic mountain landing.
Why choose this: Maximize your viewing time and customize your aerial adventure over whales and stunning landscapes.

Inclusions

30/40/60-minute Kaikoura whale-watching helicopter flight (based on option selected)
Live commentary from pilot
Headset with microphone for the helicopter flight
Alpine landing on Kaikoura Seaward Ranges (if option selected)

Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins – they sometimes join the whale-watching party.
This experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
For the helicopter flight, the maximum permitted passenger weight is 136 kg (300 lbs).
Flights may be affected by weather conditions and the need to meet minimum passenger numbers.
For safety and compliance with aircraft specifications, weight restrictions apply to all passengers. The pilot has the authority to determine passenger seating based on the helicopter's weight and balance parameters.
This experience requires a minimum of 2 guests and will have a maximum of 6 guests.
Guests will receive a headset equipped with a microphone, enabling direct communication with the pilot.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Award-winning whale watch day trip with seamless transfers from Christchurch!

Great for: Christchurch travelers wanting a complete, hassle‑free day trip that combines wildlife viewing with scenic rural drives and cultural stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip hotel transfers, an award-winning whale watch tour with live animation sequences, a visit to a fur seal colony, and a vineyard stop for wine tasting.
Why choose this: Enjoy a fully curated Kaikoura adventure where every detail is handled so you can focus on nature, culture, and unforgettable scenic experiences.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Kaikoura from Christchurch
Round-trip hotel transfers in AC coach from Christchurch
English-speaking guide
Kaikoura whale-watching tour by boat
Fur seal colony viewing
Vineyard visit and wine tasting (if time permits)

Exclusions

Lunch (available to purchase onsite)

Tip: Watch for the "blow" (puff of air) before whales come to the surface. It's your cue to snap pics! The blow is V-shaped for sperm whales and heart-shaped for humpbacks.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
While there is no lunch provided, the tour will stop at a cafe where you can purchase lunch.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Transportation is wheelchair accessible.
This trip accommodates 35 participants.
Wineries close at 5pm daily and on some holidays as well. In such cases, a stop may not be possible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

All-inclusive, eco-friendly tour with wildlife, culture, and cuisine.

Great for: Christchurch visitors wanting a relaxed, fully guided journey that blends wildlife encounters with scenic stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip minivan transport from Christchurch, coastal stops at Cheviot, a local guide, a fish & chips lunch, snacks, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and USB charging. With a bonus wine tasting in Waipara if time allows.
Why choose this: A stress-free day trip without the hassle of planning transportation, meals, and activities so that you can enjoy Kaikoura’s marine life and local flavors.

Inclusions

Full-day tour to Kaikoura
Round-trip transfers from MP Christchurch Bus Interchange by luxury minivan
English-speaking guide
Small group of up to 16 people
Whale-watching cruise
Lunch at Kaikoura fish and chip shop
Wine-tasting at Waipara
Kiwi snacks
Bottled water
WiFi, USB charging ports on minivan

Tip: Watch for a whale's diving sequence: back arching, frequent spouts, then head lifting. This 3-minute pattern signals the moment to photograph its tail fluke.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.
Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 16 people.
Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under the age of 18 years.
If you have specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, let us know at the time of booking.
This experience is weather-dependent. You can reschedule or receive a full refund if it's canceled due to inclement weather.
This experience requires a minimum number of participants. If the minimum is not met and the experience is canceled, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Paddle with seals in their natural habitat for an intimate wildlife experience!

Great for: Active travelers and families wanting a safe, hands-on marine wildlife experience without barriers.
Everything you get: A 3-hour guided kayak tour with full gear, safety briefing, expert naturalist guide, and guaranteed seal encounters. Upgrades include tandem kayaks for families or sunset paddling.
Why choose this: Intimate, low-impact adventure where seals swim right up to your kayak for a natural, respectful wildlife encounter that's more intimate than any boat tour can offer.

Inclusions

3-hour whale-watching kayaking experience in Kaikoura
All kayaking equipment (paddle jackets, wet shoes, spray skirts, dry pants, gloves, and hats over the winter months)
English-speaking guide and instructor
Family-friendly kayaking with 1 guide for each family (if option selected)
Sunset hours kayaking (if option selected)

Tip: Even if you're not a morning person, join the 8:30am tour for the best interactions with marine life.
The guided family kayaking tour requires a minimum of 2 guests.
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Guests in this sea kayaking tour should understand that adventure activities carry inherent risks. These risks may include property damage, personal injury, weather-related illness, drowning, death, and environmental factors such as sunburn, dehydration, hyperthermia, and exhaustion.
The sunset kayaking experience will accommodate a maximum of 24 guests.
This is a weather-dependent activity. Cancellations due to poor weather result in rescheduling or a full refund.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sightseeing Cruises

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Kaikoura Whale Watching Cruise

Guaranteed sighting of at least one whale or 80% refund!

Great for: Wildlife lovers and families seeking a safe, educational cruise with a 95% success rate in spotting majestic whales in their natural environment.
Everything you get: A 2.5-hour cruise on a modern catamaran with air-conditioned cabins, outdoor decks, and expert commentary. Includes a “World of Whales” presentation. Upgrade for VIP priority boarding, premium seating, and captain’s deck access.
Why choose this: Risk-free experience with guaranteed sightings and eco-conscious operations.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr. 15 min.

Airplane Tours

NEW

Kaikoura Whale-Watching Flight Experience

Sustainable whale viewing from a high-wing aircraft with clear views!

Great for: Eco‑conscious travelers and families seeking expansive, high‑altitude whale sighting opportunities over vast distances.
Everything you get: Choose between a 30‑minute flight or a 45‑minute flight with an added mountain tour; both include a guaranteed window seat, live pilot commentary, and full safety equipment.
Why choose this: You'll get an unobstructed, sustainable aerial perspective that maximizes your chances to spot marine giants and Kaikoura from above.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

30 min. - 45 min.

Helicopter Tours

NEW

Kaikoura Classic Whale-Watching Helicopter Tour

Flexible flight options for thrilling aerial whale encounters.

Great for: Adventurers and photographers looking for a tailored flight experience over Kaikoura’s marine world, with options from quick viewings to mountain landings.
Everything you get: A guided whale-watching flight with live commentary and window seats. Choose Classic (30 min), Extended (40 min) for extra sightings, or Top ‘n’ Tail (60 min) with a scenic mountain landing.
Why choose this: Maximize your viewing time and customize your aerial adventure over whales and stunning landscapes.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

30 min. - 1 hr.

Day Trips

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From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Trip with Round-Trip Transfers

Award-winning whale watch day trip with seamless transfers from Christchurch!

Great for: Christchurch travelers wanting a complete, hassle‑free day trip that combines wildlife viewing with scenic rural drives and cultural stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip hotel transfers, an award-winning whale watch tour with live animation sequences, a visit to a fur seal colony, and a vineyard stop for wine tasting.
Why choose this: Enjoy a fully curated Kaikoura adventure where every detail is handled so you can focus on nature, culture, and unforgettable scenic experiences.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

Guided tour

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Day Trips

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From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Small Group Tour with Lunch

All-inclusive, eco-friendly tour with wildlife, culture, and cuisine.

Great for: Christchurch visitors wanting a relaxed, fully guided journey that blends wildlife encounters with scenic stops.
Everything you get: Round-trip minivan transport from Christchurch, coastal stops at Cheviot, a local guide, a fish & chips lunch, snacks, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and USB charging. With a bonus wine tasting in Waipara if time allows.
Why choose this: A stress-free day trip without the hassle of planning transportation, meals, and activities so that you can enjoy Kaikoura’s marine life and local flavors.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

9 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Meals included

Kayaking

NEW

Kaikoura Guided Wildlife Kayaking Experience

Paddle with seals in their natural habitat for an intimate wildlife experience!

Great for: Active travelers and families wanting a safe, hands-on marine wildlife experience without barriers.
Everything you get: A 3-hour guided kayak tour with full gear, safety briefing, expert naturalist guide, and guaranteed seal encounters. Upgrades include tandem kayaks for families or sunset paddling.
Why choose this: Intimate, low-impact adventure where seals swim right up to your kayak for a natural, respectful wildlife encounter that's more intimate than any boat tour can offer.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr.

Guided tour

Kaikoura Whale Watching Tours

Kaikoura Whale Watching Tours

Kaikoura Whale Watching Cruise

Kaikoura Whale-Watching Flight Experience

Kaikoura Classic Whale-Watching Helicopter Tour

From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Trip with Round-Trip Transfers

From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Small Group Tour with Lunch

Kaikoura Guided Wildlife Kayaking Experience