Whale Watch Kaikōura
Kaikōura · meeting at the wharf is an option when pre planned
Whale Watch Kaikōura is New Zealand's only vessel-based whale watching operator, owned and operated by the indigenous Ngāti Kuri people of Kaikōura since 1987. Tours venture offshore over a deep undersea canyon that attracts an extraordinary abundance of marine life, with giant sperm whales as year-round residents. A typical tour may also encounter dusky dolphins, NZ fur seals, wandering albatross and a wide variety of seabirds — and depending on the season, migrating humpback, pilot, blue or southern right whales. Trips run aboard purpose-built catamarans with large outside viewing decks, spacious air-conditioned interiors and noise-minimising engines. A 95% success rate means an 80% refund is guaranteed if no whale is sighted.
Inclusive statement
Whale Watch Kaikōura is a totally inclusive experience. The crew go out of their way to make every visit stress-free — providing a shuttle from the base to the vessel, getting guests with mobility needs aboard first, and offering genuine hands-on assistance throughout. The brand new vessel Te Ao Marama is purpose-built for full inclusivity, and the team has deep experience welcoming guests of all abilities on board.
Good to know
The brand new vessel Te Ao Marama is fully inclusive — guests in manual wheelchairs can stay in their own chair throughout the journey and experience the full tour. There are three steps to negotiate boarding, with the crew on hand to assist. Power wheelchair users can transfer to a comfortable seat with full assistance from the crew — contact MakingTrax in advance to arrange. Accessible modern toilets are available on board — best used while in the marina or when conditions are calm. A shuttle runs from the base to the vessel. Arrive a little early and make yourself known so the team can get you settled first. If you are not fully independent, travelling with a companion is recommended. A full wheelchair accessibility PDF is available on the Whale Watch website. Book directly with Whale Watch and advise of your needs at time of booking.