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Experience the natural treasures of New Zealand on a whale-watching cruise from the picturesque town of Kaikoura. Look for the mighty Sperm Whales that live in these waters along with Dusky Dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and Seabirds. Admire breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges during your free time in Kaikoura's township and visit a seal colony on land. Wrap up the day with a scenic drive back to Christchurch and a wine tasting at a vineyard in North Canterbury (time permitting). Your experienced guide shares informative commentary throughout the day on this fun and fascinating tour.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation, if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Please note, infants under 3 years of age may not join the cruises but may travel on the light aircraft tours
Once the tour has commenced only the unused portion of the tour will be refunded should the boats not sail or the planes not fly.
If due to whale sightings or weather conditions the boat offers a partial refund, this refund will be passed on to our customers.
If whale watch is undertaken by light aircraft and no whales are seen, no refund applies.
A decision is made at 6:30am each day, based on local weather conditions, as to whether the tour will depart Christchurch or be canceled. If the tour is cancelled, clients are notified by 7:15am and no cancellation fees are charged. If the tour travels to Kaikoura and the whale watch cruises are canceled, whale watch plane tours are offered as an alternative. If clients do not wish to fly, or the plane tours are also canceled, a cash refund of NZD 120.00 per adult is given. Refund is issued on the day of the tour by the tour operator in Christchurch.
As the wineries close at 5pm daily and on selected public holidays, a stop may not be possible. On these occasions no refund is applicable.
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Fur seal colony viewing
Whale watching tour by boat
Air-conditioned vehicle
North Canterbury vineyard visit and wine tasting (time permitting)
Lunch (if option is selected)
Live commentary on board
Gratuities
Whale watch by boat, includes lunch at a local restaurant
Pickup included
Whale watch by boat, excludes lunch
Pickup included
Operated by Leisure Tours
133 reviews
Nathaniel W,Nov 8, 2024
Scotty was awesome! Knowledgeable, easy going and organized to keep us on time for an incredible experience. Would highly recommend!
sokboey A,Oct 26, 2024
This day trip was absolutely unforgettable! The guide was knowledgeable and friendly, the itinerary was well-planned, and every stop was breathtaking. We managed to have close encounters with sea seals, dolphin and whale. The sea was not too rough. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to make the most of a single day!
Julina K,Sep 21, 2024
As this is a weather and nature/wildlife dependent activity, there is never a 100% guarantee that you will see whales. So, do approach with an open mind. The alternative nature tour offered was equally rewarding. We got to watch several dolphin pods playing, swimming near the catamaran and jumping off the waters, seals, several varieties of sea birds, albatrosses running on the water’s edge to take flight and so on. So, I still had a fun day.
Josephine W,Jul 24, 2024
though the cruise was canceled, it was fantastic to get on the plane. the tour guide is friendly and the wine tasting at the end was good too.
Sarah M,Jul 6, 2024
We had a great day with our guide Pete. He picked us up at our Airbnb and had lots of excellent knowledge to share about the history of New Zealand etc. The day was too choppy for the boat to go out, and the company was able to arrange for flights at the last minute, which meant Pete juggled way more than I would have ever expected, and he did so with patience and ease. He truly went above and beyond, including stopping along the roadside so we could get some great seal photos. It was an amazing day!