On the Water
3–4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$180
per adult
Whale Watch Kaikoura
Whale Watch Kaikoura
4.5
Boat ToursSightseeing ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Full view
About
"THE ULTIMATE MARINE EXPERIENCE" Whale Watch® is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale all year round. A 95% success rate means a guaranteed 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale. The Giant Sperm Whales share these waters with up to 14 other different species of whales and dolphins that migrate past at different times of the year. At times you may also see NZ Fur Seals, rare & endangered Hector’s Dolphins & a wide variety of marine birds including the wandering albatross. Designed for whale watching, the company operates a fleet of modern catamarans equipped with engines that minimise underwater noise &toilets that never pollute the sea. The main passenger cabin is enclosed and large outside decks offer great viewing and photo opportunities. Spacious air-conditioned interiors are fitted with comfortable seating while large plasma screens display award-winning marine wildlife animations.
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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4.5
2,941 reviews
Excellent
1,955
Very good
582
Average
204
Poor
92
Terrible
107
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gayn0r16
Maidstone, UK13 contributions
Jan 2020
We went out for a Whale watching trip with this company and were thoroughly impressed. The attention to detail was brilliant. There was a safety presentation to start before we headed off on a bus to the boat. Attention was given to those with children and people who might be seasick and advice on how to stop sea sickness which was very useful, I’d not heard advice given before and I’m sure that it helped people enjoy the trip more. The boat ride itself was fun with us crashing through the waves at high speed to the spot where we might find whales. We were lucky enough to see two Sperm whales and to watch them dive. We also saw Dolphins and Albatross which was a bonus. We were told about the species of whales and the reason there were so many whales in the area all year round. The young man who gave the commentary was very interesting and was happy to answer questions. At the end of the trip he gave a lovely speech about how we all represented our own country while visiting New Zealand and that we should leave it as we found it, it was quite a moving end to a great trip.
Thank you for a fab day
Thank you for a fab day
Written 16 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for taking the time to submit a review after your experience with us. Feedback, positive or negative, from our customers is important and taken very seriously as we continually strive to improve the level of service and the quality of experience we deliver. Every effort is made to deliver a quality tour and experience at all times.
Thank you so much for recommending us. We wish you safe travels on the rest of your journey around our beautiful country.
Written 26 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul Hill
Wroughton, UK336 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
My wife and I decided to try our luck with catching a glimpse of nature’s biggest mammal and it didn’t disappoint.
We picked the 8.45am slot (midday and early afternoon already booked up) and sailed out the bay in search, we were warned before hand that it was choppy so took some tablets to counter it - that didn’t work! We were sick as dogs for most of the trip.
However, the treatment by the staff was second to none, and we weren’t alone being sick! I’d say half the boat was. So, if your going and they warn you, heed the advice.
The trip it’s self was awesome, highly factual and we got to see many animals on the tour. It took us 3 attempts to locate a whale but we finally did and was blessed with witnessing a sperm whale sat on the surface.
Despite the sickness it was well worth it and I’d do it again for sure, just not on a choppy day!
We picked the 8.45am slot (midday and early afternoon already booked up) and sailed out the bay in search, we were warned before hand that it was choppy so took some tablets to counter it - that didn’t work! We were sick as dogs for most of the trip.
However, the treatment by the staff was second to none, and we weren’t alone being sick! I’d say half the boat was. So, if your going and they warn you, heed the advice.
The trip it’s self was awesome, highly factual and we got to see many animals on the tour. It took us 3 attempts to locate a whale but we finally did and was blessed with witnessing a sperm whale sat on the surface.
Despite the sickness it was well worth it and I’d do it again for sure, just not on a choppy day!
Written 11 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for taking the time to submit a review after your experience with us. Feedback, positive or negative, from our customers is important and taken very seriously as we continually strive to improve the level of service and the quality of experience we deliver. Every effort is made to deliver a quality tour and experience at all times.
Thank you so much for recommending us, we are so sorry to hear that your wife and yourself suffered from sea sickness but equally happy to hear that you were still able to enjoy your experience with Kaikoura's wildlife.
We wish you safe travels on the rest of your journey around our beautiful country.
Written 26 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Wanderlust
Nottinghamshire, UK449 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
Really enjoyed this trip, everything was well organised, from the booking, check in, the coach trip to the catamaran terminal. The day we were on the trip, they had advised there was a high risk of sea sickness due to the high winds/choppy water so at least you could prepare by taking medication in advance of the sailing.
The staff were entertaining, engaging and really made the trip by providing advise if you were feeling unwell etc as to where the best seating would be and things to try.
Very informative as to the whales seen in the area, lifespan, migration habits and the whales they had come to know.
We were lucky enough to spot a sperm whale, who was at the surface long enough for everyone on the vessel to see. We subsequently found out the whale's name is Rangatira, a male, well known to them from the nicks/ shape of the tale.
It really couldn't have been any better the staff really made this!
The staff were entertaining, engaging and really made the trip by providing advise if you were feeling unwell etc as to where the best seating would be and things to try.
Very informative as to the whales seen in the area, lifespan, migration habits and the whales they had come to know.
We were lucky enough to spot a sperm whale, who was at the surface long enough for everyone on the vessel to see. We subsequently found out the whale's name is Rangatira, a male, well known to them from the nicks/ shape of the tale.
It really couldn't have been any better the staff really made this!
Written 5 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah Kirkwood
Dunedin, New Zealand37 contributions
Mar 2022
We went into the office, after checking out of our motel hoping to do the trip. We had to be back in ChCh by a certain time, so asked if we could pay, but drive to South Bay instead of taking the courtesy coach so that after the boat trip we could drive south from there. (we had parking available around the corner at a friends home). The lady behind the counter was very abrupt and said no, there is no parking at South Bay, which is not entirely correct. So sorry team, but you missed out 2 people booking tickets.
Written 6 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bmm28
Haslemere, UK49 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We may have been lucky but we had a fantastic experience with Whale Watch Kaikoura and saw 2 sperm whales, a pod of Hector dolphins with two babies, albatrosses, seals, and a blue shark! We didn’t want to leave!! As others have said - the sea is choppy so do take sea sickness tablets. We are prone to sea sickness and took medication prior to departure and fortunately felt fine and really enjoyed the experience. Crew were very knowledgeable, especially Jack who did most of the presenting.
Written 8 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora,
Thank you for taking the time to submit a review after your experience with us. Feedback, positive or negative, from our customers is important and taken very seriously as we continually strive to improve the level of service and the quality of experience we deliver. Every effort is made to deliver a quality tour and experience at all times.
Thank you so much for recommending us, we are so happy to hear that you enjoyed your whale watching adventure - we would love to see you back one day!
We wish you safe travels on the rest of your journey around our beautiful country.
Written 26 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
0616MartyB
Dublin, Ireland124 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
This was a great experience and privilege to see a great creature of the deep in real life. The boat was top class for what it was doing.
The disappointing part was the long delay in getting us from check in to the pier 10am to 11am - really unnecessary delay, no explanation or apology.
The on board staff were fantastic and only for the desire of the experience we would have walked away - so in essence the organisers know you are adaptive audience and will put up with poor service because of why you are there.
Great experience - pity about the organisation.
The disappointing part was the long delay in getting us from check in to the pier 10am to 11am - really unnecessary delay, no explanation or apology.
The on board staff were fantastic and only for the desire of the experience we would have walked away - so in essence the organisers know you are adaptive audience and will put up with poor service because of why you are there.
Great experience - pity about the organisation.
Written 31 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marcelo Lobos
Christchurch, New Zealand69 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
It is an experience that you must do if you go to Kaikoura, it is the main attraction of this spa. You can see, depending on the season, different types of whales, dolphins, sea birds, sea lions, etc. The catamaran has a large space capacity and if you want something a little more private they have a VIP option with a superior view. An incredible experience. You are constantly given talks about what you are experiencing by a leading guide through screens inside the boat.
Recommendation, dress warmly as the sea wind and the speed of the boat make you feel cold. Bring your camera, sunscreen and enjoy!
Recommendation, dress warmly as the sea wind and the speed of the boat make you feel cold. Bring your camera, sunscreen and enjoy!
Written 2 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DavidGatzka
Rastatt, Germany15,449 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Had a great tour with Whale Watch Kaikoura. The sea was pretty rough, but we were warned beforehand about possible seasickness. We were able to see 2 sperm whales diving. The booking process was very easy. Communication on board was always friendly. We recommend Whale Watch Kaikoura 100%
If you don't see a whale 🐳, 80% will be refunded. I think that's fair.
If you don't see a whale 🐳, 80% will be refunded. I think that's fair.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sabrina D
44 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
A once-in-a-lifetime experience in Kaikoura.
If you have the opportunity to take one of the excursions on offer, you should definitely do so.
Well organized by Whale Watch Kaikoura, we headed out into the wild Pacific in the morning.
Warning: If the waves are a bit higher, like on this day, the excursion is not suitable for anyone who gets seasick easily. A very shaky affair.^^
After a short time, however, we were more than rewarded: A male sperm whale surfaced, took a breath and dived again. A dream come true.
Thank you, Tumanako.
In addition to seals and albatrosses, we were also lucky enough to see Hector's dolphins, which only occur in NZ, dancing curiously through the waves around our boat.
A magical experience to see all of these beautiful animals up close.
The super dedicated crew was always busy ensuring that all guests had a pleasant experience despite the rough seas, with lots of information about Kaikoura and its unique wildlife and always ensuring safety on board.
Absolutely recommended!
If you have the opportunity to take one of the excursions on offer, you should definitely do so.
Well organized by Whale Watch Kaikoura, we headed out into the wild Pacific in the morning.
Warning: If the waves are a bit higher, like on this day, the excursion is not suitable for anyone who gets seasick easily. A very shaky affair.^^
After a short time, however, we were more than rewarded: A male sperm whale surfaced, took a breath and dived again. A dream come true.
Thank you, Tumanako.
In addition to seals and albatrosses, we were also lucky enough to see Hector's dolphins, which only occur in NZ, dancing curiously through the waves around our boat.
A magical experience to see all of these beautiful animals up close.
The super dedicated crew was always busy ensuring that all guests had a pleasant experience despite the rough seas, with lots of information about Kaikoura and its unique wildlife and always ensuring safety on board.
Absolutely recommended!
Written 3 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MVS47
Christchurch, New Zealand50 contributions
Sept 2020 • Couples
Very well organised tour. Ran smoothly and to time. We were briefed that it was going to be a little rough and offered the option of pulling out of the tour. Luckily for us sea sickness is not an issue.
The entire crew were friendly and full of knowledge and happy to share.
We saw lots of bird life, seals , hector dolphins and best of all 2 whales. Had a fabulous morning and an experience to remember.
The entire crew were friendly and full of knowledge and happy to share.
We saw lots of bird life, seals , hector dolphins and best of all 2 whales. Had a fabulous morning and an experience to remember.
Written 12 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora
Thank you for taking the time to submit a review after your experience with us. Feedback, positive or negative, from our customers is important and taken very seriously as we continually strive to improve the level of service and the quality of experience we deliver. Every effort is made to deliver a quality tour and experience at all times.
We are pleased to read that you enjoyed your whale watching cruise and mother nature showed off some of the incredible things she has to offer.
Thank you for recommending us! We hope the rest of your journey around our beautiful country was successful and you have many lasting memories.
Written 13 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi, what month is the best time to whale watch?
Written 24 January 2021
It depends on your priorities. Check out the Frequently Asked Questions on the Whale Watch site.
Written 27 January 2021
Following my review from November 19 I was asked to contact Teri, but the email address provided does not exist..
Written 7 January 2020
sorry i dont have an email.the phone number is 0800 655 121.
hope this helps.
Written 8 January 2020
Can you do this trip with a 3 year old & 5 month old baby?
Written 23 December 2019
It can get very rough out at sea and lots of people on our trip got very seasick. If it’s calm I would say yes but if not , it could be a miserable experience for all of you!
Written 23 December 2019
NAllcock61
Kingdom City, Missouri
We are visiting this area on 1.4.20 what are our chances of seeing whales?
Written 8 November 2019
We went end Feb/ early March and saw humpbacks and orcas. Didn't see a sperm whale. Saw Royal Albatrosses. What we loved most were the dolphins that escorted the boat for a good length of the voyage.
I gather that cancellations of cruises can occur due to inclement weather and seas.
Written 9 November 2019
Hi, We are visiting February will that be A good time to see the whales?
Written 30 September 2019
Kia Ora Leslie,
There is no better time of year to see the whales as they are feeding off our coastline here in Kaikoura all year round. Looking back on last years sightings in February, it was a particularly good month with sightings of Sperm Whales. The water is much warmer at that time of year too so there is an added chance of seeing Dusky and Common dolphins and if we are really lucky maybe even the Orca.
We average 1-2 whale sightings per tour and have 95% success rate. If for some reason you do not see a whale while on your tour, you will get upto an 80% refund.
We hope we get the chance to show off our beautiful blue backyard to you!
Written 16 October 2019
We are visiting on 19th (pm) and 20th November 2019. Do we need to book in advance or should we wait to see what the weather is like? If we dont book in advance could we miss out because you will be too busy?
Written 4 August 2019
Kia Ora!
We advise that you book as soon as you know your travel plans in order to prevent disappointment in certain tour dates/times being fully booked. November is the start of our peak season and tours do tend to book up fairly quickly. Here at Whale Watch Kaikoura, we are very flexible and able to easily change the time and/or date of passengers tours upon request in the lead up to your booking.
If you need help with anything, please don't hesitate to get in touch again.
Nga Mihi,
Jaegan
Written 4 August 2019
What is the best time in a day to spot whales? Tqvm
Written 23 September 2018
It is difficult to say. We had been there in the afternoon and we were going around in boat for 2 hours and we couldn’t find any. When we were returning finally we could see one.
But we could enjoy to see the dolphins. First time I could see so many dolphins.
Written 30 September 2018
Hi, we want to travel to New Zealand next year and will be in Kaikoura at the end of February. Are there chances to see Orcas at this time of the year? Thank you very much!
Written 16 September 2018
Hi, i cannot answer your question and it’is better to check directly with the organizer
Written 20 September 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.