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Whale Watching by Boat in Kaikoura with Bus Transfers and Commentary
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Whale Watching by Boat in Kaikoura with Bus Transfers and Commentary

by Whale Watch Kaikoura

3.5 hours
Kaikoura
NZ$161.54NZ$179.49 on ViatorSave 10%/person
From
NZ$161.54NZ$179.49 on ViatorSave 10%per person

Overview

This whale watching tour in Kaikoura lasts about three and a half hours, including a bus ride to and from the marina. The boat time on the water is up to two and a half hours. The operator uses modern catamarans designed for whale watching and runs tours every day of the year. Staff provide a running commentary throughout the trip and use award-winning onboard animations to explain the marine life. The main attraction is the Giant Sperm Whale, a large toothed whale native to the area. The tour has a 95% success rate for whale sightings, and if no whales are seen, an 80% refund is offered. Food and drinks are not included. The route features a deep undersea canyon near Kaikoura that attracts a variety of marine animals due to unique sea currents. The tour departs at set times and includes safety briefings and bus transfers.

Highlights

Bus transfers to and from marina included
Experienced staff provide live commentary
Modern catamarans built for whale watching
95% whale sighting success rate with 80% refund
Tours operate daily throughout the year
Award-winning educational onboard animations

What's included

Live commentary by experienced and knowledgeable staff
Bus ride to and from the marina
Refund of 80% if no whales are seen, based on 95% success rate
Onboard animations recognized with awards
Tours available all year
Use of modern, purpose-built catamarans

What's not included

Food and drinks are not provided

Itinerary

1

Kaikōura Town Overview

Kaikōura is a unique place in New Zealand where tectonic plates meet, mountains descend into the sea, and ocean currents combine. This environment attracts diverse marine life, including the Giant Sperm Whale, which is significant to the local Māori, descendants of Paikea. The town balances increased tourism with its historical charm, featuring restored buildings housing motels, cafes, and restaurants serving fresh local seafood. Kaikōura also attracts artists inspired by its landscape and wildlife, whose works are displayed throughout the town.

210 min

Meeting point

Departure Point: Whale Watch Kaikoura is located on Whaleway Station Road just a short walk or drive from the town centre - our office is based at the Old Railway Station. Address: Whale Watch Kaikoura Whaleway Station Road Kaikoura 7300

End point

Departure Point: Whale Watch Kaikoura is located on Whaleway Station Road just a short walk or drive from the town centre - our office is based at the Old Railway Station. Address: Whale Watch Kaikoura Whaleway Station Road Kaikoura 7300

Languages

English (guide)

Cancellation policy

  • Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.

Additional info

Up to 15 travelers
Mobile ticket
Wheelchair accessible
Pushchair and stroller friendly
Reachable by public transport
Wheelchair-accessible transport
Wheelchair-accessible surfaces throughout
Suitable for all fitness levels
Tours operate all year with check-in times at 7.15am, 10.00am, 12.45pm, and 3.30pm from November to March; guests must not arrive earlier than the specified check-in times.
Minimum age for children is 3 years; age limit may be raised depending on sea and weather conditions at check-in
Tours depend on weather and sea conditions; cancellations offer a full refund or alternate date
Staff monitor weather and safety, may cancel tours or restrict children and passengers with medical issues; passengers should call 0800 655 121 for sea condition updates on tour day
Passengers should dress warmly and wear flat shoes; waterproof clothing may be needed for outside decks depending on conditions
Motion sickness medication is available for purchase at the retail store to prevent travel sickness
Total tour time is about 3.5 hours including check-in, bus transfers, and safety briefing; up to 2.5 hours is spent on the water
Wheelchair users must contact the operator before arrival for assistance and details

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Total
NZ$323.08Save 10% vs Viator