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Whale Watching in Kaikoura - Ultimate Experience

Recommended by 92% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Kaikoura, New Zealand
  • 30 minutes (approx.)
  • Pickup offered
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

Experience one of Kaikoura’s must-do activities–whale watching– Enjoy unobstructed views of sperm whales, dolphins, and possibly other migratory whales from a safe, high-winged aircraft. Also admire the beautiful Kaikoura coastline and the mountains beyond.
  • Receive personalized attention on a small-group tour (max. 7)
  • Learn about Kaikoura’s wildlife and geology from a presentation
  • Transfers from the town center to the airport are included
  • Fly confidently with a pre-flight safety briefing

What's Included

  • Pre-flight Safety Briefing
  • Informative presentation on Kaikoura's wildlife and geology
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Courtesy shuttle from the town centre
  • Hot drinks
  • Gift Shop
  • Terminal Facilities
  • Children's play area

    Meeting and Pickup

    You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup

    Pickup points

    Select a pickup point

    Pickup details

    We can arrange a pick up and drop off service (free of charge) from anywhere in Kaikoura. Please either mention in the booking notes or you can call or email us directly to arrange this.

    or

    Meeting point

    • 617 State Highway 1, Peketā 7374, New Zealand

      Find us in our inviting log-cabin Terminal which is located at the Kaikoura Airport, an 8 minute drive south of the main Kaikoura township. Please check in at least 30 minutes prior to your departure time.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    1

    Kaikoura Airport

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Stroller accessible
    • Near public transportation
    • Infants must sit on laps
    • Infant seats available
    • Transportation is wheelchair accessible
    • Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Most travelers can participate
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

    Traveler Photos

    Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

    Reviews

    4.7
    based on 202 reviews
    Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

    Great experience

    Lucia_S, Sep 2024
    The views were amazing, Kaikoura's landscape with the turquoise sea close to the mountains is really beautiful. Unfortunately, we didn't see any whales. Jo was a great pilot and we enjoyed the flight.

    Glorious flight over scenic mountain ranges and majestic whales

    Miodrag_P, May 2024
    Wonderful experience, led by the kind and very informative pilot Sean (or is it Shaun? Sorry!) We drove over the beautiful snowy mountain ranges, saw two whales (a baby humpback about 10m, and a spermwhale 19m very close to the shore), plenty of opportunities to snap pictures but to also just enjoy the view and take in the grandeur of it all!

    Amazing must do!

    Andrew_P, Apr 2024
    Well worth it! We got a beautiful clear fine day and a good 20 minute perfect view of a whale on the surface. We also saw a huge pod of dolphins. Made our Kaikoura experience.

    A must do

    Brian_G, Jan 2024
    An amazing and unforgettable experience in a really comfortable and modern light aircraft with views that were magnificent

    In good hands

    Mark_M, Mar 2023
    Very professional outfit. You'll be well taken care of. Show up early at their office in town. Transportation can provided to airfield.

    Response from Host, Mar 2023

    Hi Mark, thank you for your review, we are glad you enjoyed your experience with us.
    Likely to Sell Out

    From $150.26

    per person

    up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

    Book ahead!
    On average, this is booked 34 days in advance.

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