Highlights: 

  • Up close encounter with whales

Tour Description:
This whale watching tour offers an exciting up-close encounter with Whales. A whale, as defined by the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992, means all species commonly known as whales; and includes baleen whales, sperm whales, beaked whales, killer whales and pilot whales. This tour focuses on locating and spotting the Giant Sperm whale. We average between 1 to 2 whale sightings per tour due to the length of time the whales can stay submerged. The whales form loose pods, keeping several miles between each other, so viewing any more than 1 to 2 whales per trip is a real bonus.

Around 80% of the world’s whale and dolphin species migrate past the Kaikoura coastline so at any given time there is the opportunity for other species of marine mammals to be sighted such as Blue, Fin, Sei, Humpback, Minke, Pilot, Orca and Southern Right Whales, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Southern Right Whale Dolphins, Elephant Seals and Leopard Seals.

Depending on the time after observing the Sperm whales, the captain may go along the coastline to explore other varieties of marine life where you may be lucky to spot Dusky and Hector Dolphins, as well as the New Zealand Fur Seal.

Additionally, Kaikōura hosts approximately 75% of the world’s pelagic sea bird species, such as Wandering and Royal Albatross, Mollymawk Albatross, Petrels, Shearwaters, Prions, Fulmars, Gannets, Terns, and Herons.

During the tour, passengers can enjoy an onboard visual presentation an immersive experience that virtually transports them to the depths of the Kaikōura undersea canyon. This presentation also imparts information about diverse marine life in the waters of Kaikōura.

Ocean Cabin: The Ocean cabin is the main passenger cabin. It is enclosed with outside decks. The cabin is fitted with comfortable seats. Capacity is 104 passengers.

VIP Caption’s Cabin: The VIP Captain’s Cabin is situated in the wheelhouse. Capacity is limited to 12 passengers. Seats are angled outwards to maximize views through the large windows. There is access to all other passenger areas on the vessel and an exclusive viewing area on the top deck.

What’s Included:

  • Return transfer from harbour
  • 2 hour cruise

Please note: All Freedom Day descriptions represent a typical itinerary and may not operate exactly as described. Local operators may vary from time to time.

Whalewatching, Kaikoura is available in the following itineraries: 
The Very Best of New Zealand