Kaikoura: Whale Watching Cruise
1.Whale Watching Cruise
Kaikoura whale watching cruise on a quiet catamaran. Giant sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and albatross with expert onboard narration.
“Whales made it great, dolphins were an added bonus!”
New Zealand · WHALE WATCHING
The 10 Best Whale Watching Tours in New Zealand
Kaikoura has a canyon a kilometre deep sitting close inshore, which is why sperm whales are there year round. These 10 cover the boats, the fixed-wing flights and the Auckland eco-cruises, priced from $92, and all of them sail on the weather.
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
2.Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Kaikoura whale watching by speedy catamaran with live commentary on sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and an 80% refund if none
“This is an amazingly informative trip to see the sperm whales. The trip is well organised and the staff are very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We had a very detailed talk on the whales and the kaikoura bays and canyons by a marine biologist which give you a massive understanding on how these animals live, hunt and survive in the sea. We managed to see a sperm whale and also on the way back we were greeted by a pod of dusky Dolphins playfully frolicking around the boat. I highly recommend this amazing trip to everyone. (Take your sea sickness tablets before departure though ) Thank you very much to…”
Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise
3.Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise
Cruise from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on a 4.5-hour eco safari in Hauraki Gulf to spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and seabirds.
“Brilliant trip. We were fortunate enough to see lots of dolphins and also one whale, but even without that, the trip was educational, inspiring and enjoyable. The team’s knowledge was excellent and they informed us on the research they do and the alliance they have with other charities and companies.”
Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise
4.Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise
Auckland eco cruise on the Dolphin Explorer catamaran in Hauraki Gulf, with expert scientists, close wildlife viewing, and conservation support.
“We had an amazing time! The crew was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the experience enjoyable. While we didn’t spot any whales, the dolphins more than made up for it! We watched them for about 30 minutes, and they were absolutely incredible—such a joy to see them up close. It was also awesome to see the gannets diving from the sky—such a spectacular sight to witness in action!”
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight with Commentary
5.Whale Watching Flight with Commentary
Kaikoura whale-watching flight with live commentary and guaranteed window seats. Spot sperm whales, dolphins, orcas, and more over NZ scenery.
“The flight was comfortable with live commentary throughout, and I was lucky enough to spot many whales. Definitely worth the money and highly recommended”
Auckland: Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins and Islands Cruise
6.Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins and Islands Cruise
Auckland Tikapa Moana cruise for whales and dolphins, plus an island stop and a return voucher if no marine mammals are seen.
“Well organised and so informative. Lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins and so many birds! And the trail in the island was beautiful”
From Christchurch: Kaikōura Day Tour with Whale Watching
7.Kaikōura Day Tour with Whale Watching
Small-group carbon-neutral day trip from Christchurch to Kaikōura for sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and fish and chips, with optional Waipara wine.
“Our guide stuck well to the timetable. The whale watching was well organized and we saw two magnificient whales. Also, there were many birds to see, and the seals were also nice. The fish and chips provided were excellent.”
Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)
8.Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)
40-minute Kaikoura whale-watching scenic flight with window seats, live pilot commentary, and small-group viewing over the coast.
“Excellent organisation and brilliant pilot who showed exceptional professional skills and attention to detail”
Kaikoura: Whale Watching Flight with Guided Commentary
9.Whale Watching Flight with Guided Commentary
30-minute flight over Kaikoura to spot sperm whales and dusky dolphins, with English commentary, guaranteed window seats, and photo-ready turns.
“The flight was amazing. We saw three different whale species. A group of Pilot Whales, a Sperm Whale and an Orca. Joanne was our Pilot for the flight, the flight was very smooth and the commentary was truly perfect. Thank you a lot for a wonderful experience.”
Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour from Christchurch
10.Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour from Christchurch
Guided Kaikoura day trip from Christchurch with hotel pickup, a live whale cruise, fur seals, and optional lunch plus possible wine.
“Andrew, our driver was lovely. On time / early, friendly and informative. The drive to Kaikoura through the New Zealand countryside was wonderful. We were lucky enough to see 2 sperm whales on our outing along with a large pod of Dusky dolphins (they came to us) and Hector’s dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and multiple albatross. A day that will stand out in my memories for many years.”