Kaikoura Whale Watching Cruise

Take a journey unlike any other to witness the ocean's most magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, with the security of an 80% refund guarantee if no whales appear during your cruise.

Getting started 

Arrive at the Whaleway Station 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in. Present your ticket at the counter and receive a brief safety orientation. You'll then board the modern catamaran, designed specifically for whale watching with noise-minimizing engines that don't disturb the wildlife.

What to expect 

Kaikoura is one of the few places on earth where sperm whales can be seen year-round, thanks to the unique underwater canyon just offshore.

• Expert guides use specialized equipment to locate whales, giving you a 95% chance of spotting these magnificent creatures.

• The spacious viewing decks offer 360-degree views, ensuring you don't miss a moment when whales surface. 

• The "World of the Whales" presentation provides fascinating insights into whale behavior, biology, and conservation. The onboard live commentary explains what you're seeing and educates you about marine conservation efforts. 

• Keep your camera ready for other marine wildlife often spotted during cruises, including dolphins, seals, and various seabirds. 

You'll spend approximately 2 hours on the water, with the entire experience lasting 2.5 hours from departure to return.

Wrapping Up

Upon returning to shore, you'll have the opportunity to review your photos and perhaps visit the gift shop for souvenirs that support marine conservation efforts.

Upgrades 

Upgrade to the VIP Captain's Cabin for an exclusive experience featuring priority boarding, business-class seating, personal interaction with the captain, complimentary refreshments, and access to a private viewing deck.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Dress warmly and in flat shoes. Carry your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle. Bring a waterproof jacket and shoes if you plan to spend significant time on the outer decks.

• Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.

What's not allowed

• Children aged 3 years old and under are restricted from this experience.

Accessibility

• For the safety of all passengers, including those using wheelchairs, the captain will assess sea conditions. If conditions are suitable, wheelchair access is provided. However, if conditions are deemed unsafe, mobility restrictions may be implemented.

• If you're booking seating in the VIP Captain's cabin, please make a note of any food allergies at the time of booking so these can be catered for accordingly.

Additional information

• Passenger capacity is limited to 104 in the Ocean Cabin.

• Passenger capacity is limited to 12 in the Captain’s Cabin.

• Requests to upgrade bookings after the tour check-in begins will not include a food pack.

• The schedule is subject to change. Factors such as weather, technical disruptions, marine mammal availability, and minimum passenger numbers may necessitate adjustments.

• Whale sightings are not guaranteed. However, if no whales are observed during the tour, 80% of the tour cost will be refunded. For clarity, 'whale' encompasses all species defined as such under the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations 1992, including baleen, sperm, beaked, killer, and pilot whales.