Private Tour

Wildlife Sea Kayaking Tour - Kaikoura

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Kaikōura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998

Celebrating 27 years on the water!

New Zealand’s only sea kayak operator with a marine mammal permit to view NZ Fur Seals, Dolphins, and Whales.

Kaikōura’s exclusive kayak operator licensed for Dolphin, Seal, and Whale viewing.

NZ’s first “Friend of the Sea” sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale encounters.

Paddle in traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits, spray skirts (for a dry ride), and rudders for easy steering.

Led by qualified New Zealand guides with local expertise.

100% guaranteed Fur Seal sightings on every tour!

Operating year-round (weather permitting).

The Wildlife Kayaking Tour – the Real Deal!

Come experience Kaikōura’s incredible marine life up close in a sustainable, unforgettable way.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

In any adventure activity, there is an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this activity include, property damage, personal injury, illness because of adverse weather conditions, risk of drowning, death, sunburn, dehydration, hyperthermia, and exhaustion.

We recommend you bring the following: Long sleeved thermal top, Fleece (if a bit chilly), shorts or light pants e.g. quick drys, NO JEANS! Sunglasses, cap, running shoes or sandals, drinking water, camera and towel.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Dry bags for camera's, all kayaking equipment, paddle jackets, wet shoes, spray skirts, dry pants, gloves and hats over the winter months.

Private transportation

What To Expect

Kaikoura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998 | Celebrating 27 Years! Join Kaikoura Kayaks for an unforgettable wildlife adventure, paddling through the stunning coastal waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula. Experience the thrill of watching New Zealand Fur Seals duck, weave, and dive around your kayak as they hunt for their favourite meal—octopus! Keep a respectful distance as they feast, and marvel as hundreds of pelagic seabirds swoop in to claim the leftovers. As you paddle across the water, take in the breathtaking scenery of sheer cliff faces, rugged crags, and majestic mountain ranges. With a little luck, you might also encounter Dusky Dolphins or spot Blue Penguins along the way. This guided tour is: Fun and safe for all ages and abilities Perfect for first-time kayakers and adventures—no experience required Available year-round with professional guides and top safety standards Tour Details: Paddling time: ~1.5 hours Total duration: ~3 hours (please arrive 15 minutes early) Come discover why our Wildlife Kayaking Tours are one of Kaikoura’s most popular experiences!

Options

Wildlife Sea Kayaking Tour - Kaikoura

Reviews

4.83

430 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

382

Seal kayaking in Kaikoura
Aziza M,
Jul 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Cam.and cam made it easy by lending tons of gear and with their instructions. They were super helpful
Was a great trip with a...
Sean V,
Apr 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Was a great trip with a helpful, friendly, and enthusiastic guide (thanks Charli!). We were lucky enough to see dolphins and a baby seal swimming.
Dolphin show
Lisa H,
Mar 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Absolutely phenomenal experience. There were three of us couples and the day was superb. The water was like glass and the dolphins put on a show! I absolutely fell in love with his little town and this company is to be highly recommended. Do not miss out on this.
Not worth the money
Felipe T,
Mar 16, 2025
- Viator
2.00
Not worth the money. There are much cheaper tours in Akaroa where you’re guaranteed to see dolphins. You can always see fur seals in Kaikoura for free so paying $160 for this was a regrettable choice. The only good thing was the kayak guide Shelem was friendly and knowledgeable.
We had a great time...
Diane H,
Mar 14, 2025
- Viator
4.00
We had a great time because we saw many dolphins! They were jumping and swimming under the kayaks. I will say that I was happy that I was in shape and had kayaked before, because we did have to paddle quite far to reach the pod. The staff was wonderful and so helpful and patient.