Available languages
11 hours
Mobile ticket
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, excludes lunch
Pickup included
Whale watch by boat, includes lunch at a local restaurant
Pickup included
151 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Andre M,
Apr 17, 2025
- Viator
Whale fish spotting was cancelled and of course we will disappointed. But the Great man Andrew our guide Made it very nice for us and booked us on a trip with Dolphins and that was great. After that he also show us Sea Lions and that was great. Thank you so much Andrew your the man.awesome man Thanks so much you are the best!!!!!!!!!
Mari M,
Apr 15, 2025
- Viator
The tour is well prepared, whale watching is a great experience. The catamaran is equipment to follow the whales sound, so it is quite guaranteed to seethe whales, a lot of information is given about whales.
Subh G,
Apr 9, 2025
- Viator
Although a long day it was an enjoyable trip . Guide was friendly and informative . Boat was in good condition and all staff very attentive . Will definitely recommend the tour
Karen H,
Apr 5, 2025
- Viator
It’s a long bumpy ride from Christchurch and sea can be rough. The vehicle we travelled in was fairly small and cramped as full on our trip. Would recommend staying in Kaikora and taking trip locally.
Georgina M,
Mar 29, 2025
- Viator
Jude our guide was brilliant pointing out all the different things to us on the way. Everything was seamless. The whale trip was amazing and we saw a sperm whale and loads of dolphins an amazing sight. Would definitely recommend this trip.
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4.25
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4.96
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4.99
5.00
4.73
Operated by Leisure Tours