THE WHALE WATCHING GUIDE
The trips worth booking.
The 7 whale watching in new zealand travellers rate most highly, gathered in one place. What you are likely to see, when the season runs, who skippers the boat, and what a place on deck costs.
Kaikōura sperm whale watching by catamaran with live commentary, a strong sighting success rate, and an 80% refund guarantee.
Most Popular“Whale watching on a very rough sea. Warnings re sea sickness given & medication was available. So glad we took the advice & purchased anti sickness medication at shop. Very rough sailing & loads of people unwell including my partner. Read more”
4.5-hour catamaran eco-cruise from Auckland for orcas, bottlenose dolphins, whales, and seabirds, with science-led commentary.
“It was very good overall. We were lucky to see lots of dolphins and whales. Guides were very good, they knew exactly very well where can we find the marine animals.”
A 40-minute small-group whale-watching scenic flight over Kaikōura’s coast, with window seats and live pilot commentary.
“Appears to be well run with well maintained Cesnas. Pilot did a very good job with flying and narrating. Only saw 1 whale, but that is the luck of the draw (the flight before mine saw 3). Location is easy to reach with ample parking.”
See Kaikoura whales from a high-wing plane with small-group comfort, pilot-led wildlife talk, and easy town-center transfers for about 30 minutes.
“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.”
Ride from Christchurch to Kaikōura for a long, wildlife-heavy day: guided whale watching, fur seals on land, scenic stops, and optional wine.
“Small group Knowledgeable guide Gorgeous scenery Decent food Saw 2 sperm whales and tails, 1 humpback whale and Hectors dolphins Fast boat, very knowledgeable crew No food or drinks on board Lots of drive time”
Whakaari–White Island flight from Whakatane with a Māori welcome, mauri stories, and up-close volcano views. One hour from $388.
“Incredible views. They were very accomodating for kids and adults.”
30-minute Kaikoura whale watching flight with headset commentary, plus a bird’s-eye view of sperm whales, dolphins, and the coast.
“Super friendly staff, amazing flight. Ben the pilot was really knowledgeable about the area and great info about the Whales that frequent the area...AND... *WOW* got to watch a Humpback whale jumping out of the water. Such a special flight. Recommend doing this, you won't regret it ever!!”
Every coast with a season worth booking, port by port.
