Whale Watch Kaikoura

Q&As

Latest Questions about Whale Watch (Kaikoura)

Is there a best time or a whale watching season in Kaikoura?

Comments

Fortunately in Kaikoura, there is a resident pod of Giant Sperm Whales that are around 12 months of the year. The 95% whale spotting success rate means you are guaranteed an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale. Other migratory whales pass through Kaikoura's waters at various times of the year also.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Callum) on 30th Nov 22 at 14:54

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What do we need to take with us when we go out on the Whale watching boat?

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Thank you for your question about Whale Watching in Kaikoura. For this Whale watching activity, we recommend you dress warmly, wear flat shoes and bring a waterproof jacket if you wish to spend time outside on the decks of the vessel. Bring your camera and if you would like to take food and drinks on board you can, as there is no shop on board the vessel.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 22nd Mar 21 at 15:27

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When is the best time to go whale watching in Kaikoura?
Will they be around in January?

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Thanks so much for your question regarding the Whale Watch in Kaikoura. Great news we have a permanent pod of sperm whales that live in the area so there is a very high success rate for the tours and if you don't see any whales you do get a partial refund for the trip 

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 23rd Sep 23 at 16:19

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What is the likelihood of viewing whales in Kaikoura around mid-October?

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Whale Watch Kaikoura is the only sea based whale watching tour provider in New Zealand operating all twelve months of the year. Whale Watch offers international and domestic visitors to Kaikoura an exciting close up encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale, the largest of the toothed whales.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 17th Sep 23 at 15:27

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Hi we are planning to go Whale watching in Kaikoura in late September, is it ok to book now? Do the boats have bathrooms onboard?

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Yes, Whale Watching in Kaikoura is available to book all year round, we recommend booking in advance as it is subject to booking out during peak seasons. There are also bathroom facilities on board the boat during the tour. 

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 24th Jun 23 at 15:35

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Hello, we plan to come to Kaikoura in late June. Is it still possible to see the whales at that time of year

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Thanks so much for your enquiry into Whale Watch Kaikoura. Great news, yes it is still possible at this time, we have a permanent pod of sperm whales that live in the area so the tour has a very high success rate and if no whales are spotted on the day of your cruise you get an 80% refund.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 20th Apr 23 at 13:09

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Are there whales about in Kaikoura in December?

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Fortunately in Kaikoura, there is a resident pod of giant sperm whales that live all year round in the 2km deep trench just off the coast of Kaikoura. During the year the coast is visited by other transient whales but the great thing about Kaikoura is that regardless of when you come to visit there are always giant sperm whales there.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Callum) on 20th Jun 22 at 13:38

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When are you likely to see whales on top of the water.

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Thanks for your question about Whale Watch Kaikoura. The whales are in the wild and they go up to the surface to breathe air, if they are moving they will surface more but it all depends on the day.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 27th Apr 22 at 13:51

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My elderly parents won’t have a vehicle but would like to go whale watching Kaikoura. Do you provide a Transport service to get them to the trip?

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Thanks for your question. Whale Watch Kaikoura does not offer transport. They are based in central Kaikoura so walking distance from many accommodation options. 

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 31st Mar 22 at 13:47

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What time does check-in close for the Whale-watching tours?

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Thank you so much for your enquiry. The check-in for the Whale Watch Tour in Kaikoura is at the time of the session. If you are booked in for the 12.45 pm session you are able to check in at 12.45. Although we do recommend getting there 5 -10 before this to make sure you are on time.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 20th Jan 22 at 14:22

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I want to go Whale Watching. What is the Captain Cabin?

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Thank you so much for your enquiry. For extra comfort and exclusivity, the Captain's Cabin offers guests great views with big windows to look out through. The Captain's Cabin is situated in the wheelhouse alongside the skipper and watchkeeper with a maximum of 12 guests only. Guests can relax and enjoy watching the whales while sitting in comfortable luxurious seating and listening to the dedicated cabin nature guide.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 18th Jan 22 at 11:21

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How far out does the boat go out on the Whale watching tour? I heard the sea gets suddenly very deep.

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Thank you for your question about the Whale Watch Kaikoura tour. Yes, the Kaikoura Canyon reaches depths of up to 1200 + metres, the canyon is part of the Kermadec Trench system which extends far out into the Pacific Ocean. The canyon is located around 800 metres off the Kaikoura coast, the whale watching routes vary depending on the conditions and whale activity.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Rhiannon) on 14th Oct 21 at 15:41

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Is mid-August a good time to come whale watching in Kaikoura?

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Thank you so much for your enquiry ! Yes, August is a great time for Whale Watching in Kaikoura. During the winter months, we usually have many different species around Kaikoura. 

Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 25th May 21 at 10:35

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How much for two adults in February?

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Thank you for your question. In February 2021the Oceans Cabin costs $150 NZD per person and the Captain's Cabin (premium experience) is $180 NZD per person.

Comment by: ETG on 18th Feb 21 at 12:28

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Can children 2 year old and below apply for the ferry trip?

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Hi Joy, Thank you for your query. Unfortunately, Whale Watch Kaikoura do not allow children under 3 years of age onto their boat trips.

Comment by: ETG on 15th Feb 21 at 10:18

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We will ne there Feb 15th. Do we need to book ?
Thanks
Wendy

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Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance so that you are guaranteed a space, as this tour is very popular and spaces get filled up quickly!

Comment by: ETG on 12th Jan 21 at 20:17

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Return transfers from our booking office in town to our marina. Where is the booking office?

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Whale Watch booking office is located at Whaleway Station Road, Kaikoura 7340. It is best to book in advance as this trip is very popular and spaces fill up quickly.

Comment by: ETG on 6th Jan 21 at 15:36

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Is the morning or afternoon tour best to see whales and weather best

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We usually recommend the morning tour but this tour is weather dependent so best is to book for the first day you are available so that we can reschedule your tour if necessary.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 18th Nov 20 at 16:34

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Hi..do you offer a senior's Gold Card discount for the tour? Thanks

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For this Whale Watch Kaikoura tour, there is just the standard adult price and child price. However, we do offer multi activity discounts so please get in touch to organise a discounted package.

Comment by: ETG on 10th Jul 20 at 07:27

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How much for a family of 5

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Yes, we offer family packages. Please contact us via email at [email protected] and we can put together package for you.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 2nd Jun 20 at 09:45

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Is it possible for a child aged 2 and 11 months years old to join the tour?

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Hi Jim, Unfortunately, the operator policy is the following: Policy: Minimum age for a child is strictly 3 years old. It has been deemed due to the nature of the experience, the speed of the vessels, the ride of the vessels and the changeable conditions off our coastline that the tour is not fit for children under the age of 3yrs.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Elise) on 28th Feb 20 at 14:52

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Hi can I come with 18 months baby to watch whale watching

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Thanks for your enquiry regarding Whale Watch Kaikora. Unfortunately, the minimum age for the tour is 3 years old for safety reasons.

Comment by: Nige - Everything Travel Group on 31st Dec 19 at 11:23

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Do you accomodate wheelchairs?

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To board the boat you would need to leave the wheelchair behind, the staff can assist you on to the boat and get you comfortable on a seat. Then whenever a Whale is spotted the skipper will make sure the boat is lined up on the side you are sat on, for you to get the best look at the Whales.

Comment by: Shelley - Everything Travel Group on 29th Jul 19 at 10:14

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Hi, is there a carpark near your office for parking please?

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There is plenty of parking in the surrounding area, there's also a big parking lot right next to the beach if you were unable to find parking on a nearby street.

Comment by: Shelley - Everything Travel Group on 13th Jul 19 at 08:08

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Hi, what time of year are you more likely to see humpbacks?

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Humpack whales can frequently be seen during the winter months (June/July/August) as they migrate from the Antarctic. In Kaikoura, you will also be able to see sperm whales all year round :)

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Siobhan) on 10th May 19 at 08:48

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Do you take 2 year olds?

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With this tour, for safety purposes, children under 3 are not permitted. This is due to the nature of the experience, the speed of the vessels, the ride of the vessels and the changeable conditions off the coastline.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group on 26th Apr 19 at 11:39

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Hello, How large are your boats (length and with?)? How many passengers?

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Heya, The whale watch Kaikoura boats are all 18m long with a width of 6.4m. They can take up to 48 passengers on each trip.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 29th Dec 18 at 11:57

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I am interested to join whale watching tour with my husband on Dec 13. May I know any transportation arrangement from Christchurch and the cost?

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Heya, Unfortunately there are no transfers included from Christchurch. Its a 2 hour 40 minute drive so you will need to look into public transport or hire a car.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 11th Oct 18 at 10:55

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Hello, I am looking at booking a whale watch for my sisters 30th birthday in dec. When do I need to book and pay by?

Kind Regards
Debbie

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Hi Debbie, December/Jan is the busiest time of year, they are getting very booked up from about 21st onwards in Dec so i would recommend booking in asap to secure your spots. You will pay at the time of booking.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 1st Oct 18 at 09:00

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Hello, Im wanting to book but as the trip is 3.5 hrs & im on oxygen for my health, would there be a normal power point I could use if I need to charge up my concentrator on board, thank you

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Hi Deb! Absolutely, that won't be a problem , there are plenty of powerpoints on board that you can use

Comment by: The Everything Travel Group (Sally) on 21st Sep 18 at 10:51

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Could you tell me the times for trips on 20/3/18 please
2 adults

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Hi there. I intend coming in September from Australia with family. This includes my brother Colin who lives in Christchurch. Colin has a disability as a result of a motorbike accident many years ago. He uses a power wheelchair for mobility. Would he be able to participate in a tour. This will be part of his 60th birthday celebration .

Comment by: Sue Greenwood on 12th Jun 18 at 09:55

Whale watching would certainly be a lovely experience for him for his birthday! They have said that he would be able to attend the tour if you and the staff would be able to move him from his wheelchair to their own wheelchair. As motorised chairs cannot fit on the boat. He will then have to move from that wheelchair to the seat of which he would stay for the duration of the tour. They would ensure the whales were on his side of the boat for viewing.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 12th Jun 18 at 10:57

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please can you confirm the best time to book a trip in mid December - morning or after noon re seeing as many whales as possible

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Heya, The whales live there permanently and are active for most of the day. The times they take the boat out are set at those times purposefully to maximise whale sightings.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 9th Nov 17 at 12:44

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What is you time for whale watch on Oct, It is take 3.5 hr, isn't it?

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Hello, There are many times as the boats go depending on the tides. It is roughly one around 7am, 10am and Midday. They are getting very booked up now though so i would recommend contacting us via live chat or email so we can check the live availability for you.

Comment by: Alicia - Everything New Zealand on 2nd Oct 17 at 08:43

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How can I get from Chch to Kaikoura without a car?

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There is actually a day tour from Christchurch to Kaikoura return that includes the whale watching. It departs Christchurch at 8am and returns by 6pm.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 7th Mar 17 at 10:07

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What times the boat leave?

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Hi No need to answer my questions, I read further down and saw all the answers!!Thank you

Comment by: Sharon Evans on 19th Oct 16 at 17:52

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what are the tour times in early november

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In early November (which is the same for the entire summer season), the Kaikoura whale watch tours depart at 7.15am, 10am, 12.45pm and 3.30pm. If these boats fill up then sometimes there are extra departure times opened up. We always recommend booking for one of the morning departures if possible as the wind often picks up in the afternoon and can sometimes make the seas a bit choppy.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 22nd Aug 16 at 23:39

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Hi, what is the cancellation policy of this whale tour?

Regards

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If your whale watch tour is cancelled for any reason by Kaikoura whale watch then you can reschedule or get a full refund from us. If you decide to cancel for any reason then as long as you give us at least 48 hours then we will be happy to offer you a full refund.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 1st Aug 16 at 09:14

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We are travelling to New Zealand in July with our 2 children ages 1 and 3. Is there a whale watching tour we can do as we saw on the website that children under 3 are not permitted.

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Yes unfortunately that is the case and this is the only one whale watch boat cruise company in Kaikoura. There is a scenic flight you can do called Wings over Whales and kids under 3 travel for free. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 15th May 16 at 11:19

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Hi. What months of the year are you most likely to see whales on this trip?

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Hi Sue, Giant Sperm whales are present in Kaikoura all year round due to the abundant food source and whale watch have a 95% success rate in finding whales. If your tour does not spot a whale then you are entitled to a 80% refund. At certain times of the year you can also see Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 11th Apr 16 at 08:26

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What times are the whale watch boat trips

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The whale watch boat trips depart at 10am and 12.15pm all year, as well as 7am and 3.30pm during summer (November-March).

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 22nd Mar 16 at 19:37

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What happens with bad weather , after booking?

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If the weather is bad and the whale watching tour in Kaikoura is cancelled, then you are given the option of rescheduling to another time or day, or you can get a full refund from us.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 15th Jan 16 at 00:35

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Is there a toilet on the boat

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Hi Glenda, yes there is a toilet on board the Whale Watch Kaikoura boat. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 28th Oct 15 at 08:47

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Does the train from Christchurch coincide with the 12.45 trip?Looking at 14th October..Thanks

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The train from Christchurch arrives in Kaikoura at 9.50am which coincides perfectly with the 10am whale watch tour (which actually doesn't depart until 10.30am). The 12.45pm tour finishes too late to get the train back to Christchurch on the same day. The Whale Watch office is right next door to the train station.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 18th Sep 15 at 10:10

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I am planning a birthday trip in the summer for my grand-daughter and myself from Ch Ch to Kaikoura and return with a whale watch excision as the added attraction for the day. Do you wait for the train from Ch Ch to arrive at Kaikaoura before the bus leaves for the whale watch boats? The latter departure time of the boats will not have us back at the station in time to get the train back to Ch Ch. If you don't wait a couple of minutes then I will have to have a rethink of the birthday treat.

Comments

The Kaikoura whale watch boats actually leave 30 minutes after your check in time. So if you want to book on the 10am trip for example, which lines up nicely with the train from Christchurch, then you need to check in just after 10am and the boat wont actually depart until 10.30am. Many people catch the train down from Christchurch for this trip so you wont miss it if you are on the train. Please note, that for this reason, the 10am trip does book up well in advance so we do recommend booking soon. Once you book via our website we will email your confirmation straight back to you.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 24th Jul 15 at 11:52

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Hello, how much do your whale watching tours cost? And how long do they take? Do we get a full refund of money if we don't see any, not just a voucher as we are not from the area?
Regards,
Yanisae Cornes

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The whale watch tours in Kaikoura cost $145 per adult and $60 per child. If your whale watch tour is cancelled and you don't get out on the boat then you get a 100% refund back onto your credit card. If you do actually go on the tour but you don't see any whales then you get refunded 80% back onto your credit card.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 28th May 15 at 21:26

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Is it possible to purchase a voucher for a friend to go on a whale watch tour? If so how do I go about doing this?

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Hi Jackie. Yes you can certainly book an open dated gift voucher for the whale watching in Kaikoura. If you click on the Book Now button then select 'I want this to be an open dated gift voucher'. You can then write a message to the recipient and proceed to the Check Out page where you can pay securely with your credit card and we will then instantly email the gift voucher to you.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 22nd Nov 14 at 12:22

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Time of cruises

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Hi Barb. The whale watch cruises in Kaikoura depart at 10am and 12.45pm all year as well as 7am and 3pm during the summer months. When were you looking at booking for? It is very popular so we recommend booking in advance.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 16th May 14 at 09:42

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What time of day the first of February has the highest probability of whale sightings in Kaikoura?

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Hi Diane, the 7.15am Whale Watch Kaikoura tour is often the best tour to go on as that is generally when conditions are at their calmest making good viewing for whales.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 11th Dec 13 at 17:07

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Good Morning.
I have 3 daughters & am planning on giving them & their partners vouchers for a whale watch for christmas presents. They can be used at their leisure, as they will have fund the travel from their homes to Kaikoura. Are the vouchers able to be made out in their names and are there expiry dates on them? Thank you.
As I have G mail it may pay to e mail my work address, which is below.

Comments

Hi Bryan

Yes you can specify the names and a message to appear on each gift voucher. The Gift Vouchers are valid for 1 year. Once you book on the website the Gift Voucher will be sent to you in pdf format immediately.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Kris) on 15th Sep 13 at 14:32

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Do you cater for wheelchair bound passengers?

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Hi Tony, Whale Watch Kaikoura can accommodate for guests in wheelchairs. What will happen is they would be put into a carry on chair that Whale Watch have to transfer the passenger onto the vessel and they will then be seated beside a window with full viewing. The passenger would need to be able to support themselves to get out of the carry on chair and into their seat. Unfortunately if you are bound by an electric chair these cannot be accommodated for as you are unable to take your own chair on board the vessel. Please be aware that the captain has the final say as to whether or not wheelchair bound passengers can travel on the day. If weather conditions are unfavourable and bumpy then the captain may decline any wheelchair bound passengers as it will just be too uncomfortable for them and not safe. If this is the case then obviously a full refund would be issued.  

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 5th Mar 13 at 11:47

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Which is the best time to see the whales?

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Hi Claire, Whale Watching operates all year round in Kaikoura as it is one of the few locations in the world that are lucky enough to have sperm whales present all year due to the abundant food source in the area. However, while While sperm whales stay around all year, Kaikoura is also visited by many migrating whales, like humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales and southern right whales. The whales leave Antarctic waters for the winter and head up to the tropics, stopping at Kaikoura on the way. For migrating whales, June and July are the best times to go.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 26th Feb 13 at 15:35

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Hi there. We are wanting to do a whale-watching tour on Wed Feb 27th. Can you tell me if there is a best time of day for seeing whales, or is any time OK.

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Hi Lynne. Any time of day is good for seeing whales in Kaikoura however often the mornings have better weather and less wind which makes for a more enjoyable experience. I'd recommend booking either the 7.15am or 10am whale watch departure from Kaikoura if possible.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (callum) on 3rd Feb 13 at 13:23

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hi, i will be visiting nz in feb. Is this a good time to see the humpback whales or should i do tour the next time i come to new zealand?

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Hi Allisha. Anytime of the year is a great time to go Whale Watching in Kaikoura. Kaikoura is one of the few places in the world where Sperm Whales can be seen year-round and close to shore. They congregate here because the 3km deep Kaikoura Canyon runs right up against the coast creating a rare system of sea currents that sustain an incredibly rich marine food chain. Sperm Whales are at the top of this food chain and the abundance of fish ensures they make the waters of Kaikoura their home.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Kris Barrs) on 5th Jan 13 at 09:02

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I'm pregnant would this be alright to do ?

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Hi Georgia. I have spoken with one of the Kaikoura Whale Watch boat captains who has informed me that normally there is no worries whatsoever if you are pregnant, you just need to obviously make sure you are really careful when moving around the boat. However, if the sea is a bit choppy and the captain thinks its going to be too rough out there then he will recommend that you don't go out on the boat. If this occurs then you can reschedule or receive a full refund from us. The captain will make this call on the day prior to the boat departing.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 20th Dec 12 at 12:54

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will have 2 full days in Kaikoura on 6 and 7 January. Is it better to book a morning whale tour now .. if we wait until our arrival is this a busy time and might we miss out if we dont book now my concern is if we book now the weather may have been better on the 2nd day
your advice please

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Hi Cathy. I highly recommend you book your Kaikoura whale watch tour now as they are often booked up many weeks in advance. There are often less winds in the morning so I recommend you book for the morning on day 1. If the weather is no good then the trip wont go ahead and you can reschedule to the second day or receive a full refund from us.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 28th Nov 12 at 10:40

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What sort of whales are we likely to see mid-November?

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Hi Sonya,

During mid November you will see Sperm Whales. However there is a chance you may also see Orca Whales as they are starting to be sighed through the summer months.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Nigel) on 4th Nov 12 at 10:54

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If our train arrives from Christchurch at 9:54 a.m., I am concerned about the time sitting at the train station. How far is the station from town? We would like to take the 12.45 whale watch. Thank you.

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Hi Jeanne. The Whale Watch office is right next to the train station in Kaikoura so if your train arrives at 9.54am then you could book the 10am whale watch as this tour doesnt actually depart until 10.30am (10am is the time you need to check in from). 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 25th Oct 12 at 13:38

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Hi there, do you think it would be necessary to book an independent dolphin watching trip...how likely is it to see both whales and dolphins? Thanks and look forward to your reply.

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Hi Meryl. Dolphins are often spotted on the Kaikoura whale watch tour and given the opportunity the captain will make every effort to get up close and personal with them. The main focus on this tour however is the whales so there are no guarantees that dolphins will be spotted as the captain and crew are concentrating solely on locating the whales for you. I'd suggest booking the whale watch tour and if you don't end up seeing any dolphins then you could then book the dolphin encounter also.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 10th Oct 12 at 10:37

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Is there a best time of year to see Orca and/or Wondering Albatros?

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Hi Marc, the best time of year to view the Orca is during the summer months of Dec - March in Kaikoura. In saying that it is very difficult to predict when an Orca will turn up and the sightings happen about every 8-10 days during the Summer. The 10am tour may see one and then the 10.30am tour may miss it so it is very difficult to predict. Albatross' on the other hand are more readily seen all year. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 3rd Oct 12 at 15:17

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Hi, i only have a day and a half to see kaikoura ,i was planning on getting a bus from christchurch at 7.15am in the morning this saturday ,arriving at kaikoura at 9.45am, would this give me enough time to make it to your whale watching tour

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Hi Katie, yes you would certainly be able to do the Kaikoura Whale Watching if your train arrives in at 9.45am. You will make the 10am trip or else there is 12.45pm as well. The check in for the Whale Watching is next door to the train station. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 29th Aug 12 at 16:08

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can you tell me if you will be operating on 1 January 2013?

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Hi Helen, yes Whale Watch Kaikoura certainly will be operating on Jan 1 2013. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 20th Aug 12 at 14:04

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We will be in the South Island from the end of August to mid September and were wondering if there is a time slot that is better to book to see the Whales? (10am 0r 12:45pm)

Thanks
Sam

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Hi Sam. It's really hard to predict but usually the best time to do the whale watch tour in Kaikoura is in the morning as there are usually less winds so I'd recommend booking the 10am departure. The whale watching is often booked up several weeks in advance so I recommend booking asap.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 16th Aug 12 at 15:23

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does the month of August have a high or low incidence of whale sightings.

Comments

Hi Gordon,

Kaikora is pretty consistent throughout the year with whale sightings almost guaranteed. December - January are particularly busy.

Here is an update from yesterday which was sent out

 "We believe there is as many as 6 Sperm Whales feeding in the area today with 4 only a few miles from home, we have also located the Blue Whale again which we believe is the same one we have been seeing for a while now which is also fantastic."

So I would say August is as good as any month to head out and see the Whales.

Regards,

Nigel

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Nigel) on 12th Aug 12 at 18:00

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R U operating ie whale watching tours late September. If so what times are the tours please as doing train from chch and back to chch.

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Hi Ruth. Yes the whale watching tours in Kaikoura do operate all year. During September they depart twice daily at 10am and 12.45pm. They can get booked up in advance so I recommend booking via our site at least several weeks before hand.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 20th Jul 12 at 10:58

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Hi, I see that child under 3yrs old is not permitted. Is there any reason why it is not allowed?
We have been to New Zealand 3 yrs ago but miss seeing it. This time round we are going again but with our little child which is now 2yrs 3 mhs and we could have missed it.
Thks.

Comments

Hi Toy, yes, that is correct. Unfortunately children under 3 are not permitted due to safety restrictions.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 25th Jun 12 at 14:14

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Do the whales stay all year round

Comments

Hi William, yes the whales certainly are visible in Kaikoura all year round and that is one of the reasons Kaikoura Whale Watch is a very popular and such a unique operation.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 25th Jun 12 at 11:20

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Hi , my wife & my son will be in Kaikoura on 27th June and would like to do the 10am boat trip . Do I have to pay and book now ? or will it be ok on the day .

Comments

Hi Rob, wes I definitely recommend booking now for your Whale Watch trip on the 27th June as Kaikoura Whale Watch in particular is a very popular activity and is often booked out days if not weeks in advance.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 14th Jun 12 at 08:58

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Hi
i would just like to ask what is whale watch kaikoura, when is the best time of year to see the whales?
Thanks.
Eilis.

Comments

Hi Ellis. Kaikoura is one of the few places in the world where Sperm Whales can be seen year-round and close to shore. They congregate here because the 3km deep Kaikoura Canyon runs right up against the coast creating a rare system of sea currents that sustain an incredibly rich marine food chain. Sperm Whales are at the top of this food chain and the abundance of fish ensures they make the waters of Kaikoura their home.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 2nd Jun 12 at 17:28

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Hi,

What species of whale would we expect to see in late August?

Comments

Hi Louise, in August ou will most commonly experience the Giant Sperm Whales and often migrating Humpback Whales. Commonly spotted wildlife also includes Fur Seals, pods of Dolphins, the endangered Wandering Albatross and many other bird species.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 25th May 12 at 12:32

Hi Louise, in August ou will most commonly experience the Giant Sperm Whales and often migrating Humpback Whales. Commonly spotted wildlife also includes Fur Seals, pods of Dolphins, the endangered Wandering Albatross and many other bird species.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 25th May 12 at 13:14

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Hi.. At this time of the year would it be successful to spot Whales..?

Thanks

Nigel

Comments

Hi Nigel, yes whales are visibile at this time of year. Kaikoura is one of the few locations in the world where whales are visible all year round. 

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 15th May 12 at 09:47

I will be visiting Kaikoura via train ex Ch-ch Sat 14 July. What would be the possibility of smooth seas?? Would I be able to catch the 10.00 departure given the train arrives at 9.54??

Comment by: Merry Smith on 23rd May 12 at 13:33

Hi Merry, winter is often a more pleasant time for whale watching as the sea is generally calmer as you get the clear days however it is difficult to determine what the seas will be like on July 14th. Yes you will make the 10am Whale Watch tour as the Whale Watch office is just a short walk from where the train arrives into.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Belinda) on 23rd May 12 at 14:36

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