8 Best Whale Watching Tours In Christchurch

Just two hours north of Christchurch, Kaikoura offers the South Island’s premier whale watching experiences. Several local operators run well-organized tours lasting 2-3 hours, with impressive 95% success rates for spotting sperm whales and other marine species. I especially like Kaikoura’s small-group tours – they’re intimate, informative, and the boats can maneuver quickly when whales are spotted.

Two standouts are the standard half-day cruise and the combo tour that pairs whale watching with a scenic train journey back to Christchurch. Both include expert naturalist guides and offer flexible booking policies in case of weather cancellations.

Let’s explore the top whale watching tours worth your time and money:

Key Points

• Kaikoura Tours offers immersive whale watching experiences from Christchurch, with overnight tours starting at €409.20 per person.
• Full-day whale watching tours are available from Christchurch, priced at $198.25 per person, with hotel pickup, lunch, and optional wine tasting.
• Combination tours of whale watching and scenic train journeys are available, with a maximum of 35 travelers for a hassle-free adventure.
• Aerial whale watching tours have a high success rate of 97% for spotting whales, accommodating up to 6 passengers for an intimate experience.
• Private whale encounter experiences for groups up to 4 are available, starting from $954.21 for an exclusive tour.

Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch

For those seeking an immersive whale watching experience from Christchurch, the Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.

This 2-day adventure takes you on a journey through North Canterbury, culminating in a whale watching cruise and a swim with dolphins. Priced from €409.20 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, accommodation, and various wildlife encounters.

With a maximum of 50 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and live commentary throughout. The experience is highly rated, with 5 reviews averaging 5.0 stars.

Accessibility features and child-friendly policies make this tour suitable for a wide range of travelers. Cancellation policies offer flexibility, and customer feedback highlights the tour’s excellent organization and memorable dolphin swimming.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability

From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Day Tour

Set out on a captivating whale watching adventure from the heart of Christchurch.

This full-day trip takes you to Kaikoura, where you’ll enjoy a 4-hour whale watching cruise amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

The tour includes round-trip transportation with hotel pickups, a lunch break, and an optional wine or beer tasting in Waipara.

At just $198.25 per person, this tour offers excellent value, with a 4.7/5 overall rating from previous travelers.

Experienced guides ensure an informative and enjoyable experience, from spotting majestic whales to admiring panoramic views of mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

Secure your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: From Christchurch: Kaikoura Whale Watching Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability

Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour From Christchurch Including Coastal Pacific Train

Explore the stunning coastal landscapes of New Zealand on this engaging day tour from Christchurch.

Combining a whale watching cruise and a scenic train journey, this tour offers a unique experience. Spot majestic whales and playful fur seals, then visit a local vineyard for wine tasting.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and a maximum of 35 travelers, this tour ensures a personalized and hassle-free adventure.

While there’s no wheelchair access or infants allowed on the cruise, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.

Refunds are provided under specific conditions, and the tour may be canceled due to weather.

Feedback highlights the tour’s scenic views but notes some organizational challenges.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Whale Watch Day Tour From Christchurch Including Coastal Pacific Train Review
Book now: Check availability

Kaikoura Whales

Kaikoura, a picturesque coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its thriving whale population.

Set out on a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching adventure, where you’ll soar above the Pacific Ocean in a small aircraft for breathtaking aerial views. With a 97% success rate, you’re virtually guaranteed to spot majestic whales swimming below.

The tour accommodates up to 6 passengers, so you’ll enjoy an intimate experience. While weight restrictions apply, most travelers can participate.

After your exhilarating flight, you’ll return to the meeting point in Christchurch.

With flexible booking and cancellation policies, this whale watching tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the region.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Whales Review
Book now: Check availability

Kaikoura Day Tour With Whale Watching

Enjoy a captivating day tour from Christchurch to the whale-watching haven of Kaikoura. This small-group excursion takes you on an exclusive, scenic journey to see marine life up close.

Board a whale-watching cruise and spot whales, dolphins, and fur seals in their natural habitat. If weather conditions cancel the cruise, you’ll enjoy a scenic flight instead.

Throughout the day, savor a cafe lunch, take in breathtaking views of the Kaikoura Range, and visit scenic viewpoints. Your knowledgeable driver-guide provides live commentary, and gratuities are included.

With a maximum of 8 travelers and a 94% recommendation rate, this tour offers an unforgettable Kaikoura experience.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Day Tour With Whale Watching Review
Book now: Check availability

Kaikoura Day Trip – Whales Encounter

Enjoy the captivating world of marine life on this Kaikoura day trip. Priced from $954.21 per group of up to 4, this whale encounter experience departs from Christchurch, with pickup available from your hotel or the airport.

The tour includes all fees and taxes, as well as a provided lunch. While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller friendly and offers infant seats.

Though not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate. This private tour ensures your group has an exclusive experience.

Confirm your start time with the local provider, and get ready to witness the wonders of whales in their natural habitat.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Day Trip – Whales Encounter Review
Book now: Check availability

2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour From Christchurch

Set out on a captivating two-day adventure as you explore the marine wonders of Kaikoura on this comprehensive tour from Christchurch.

You’ll enjoy 1-night accommodation, experienced coach drivers, and transport to and from Kaikoura.

Witness the majestic whales on a Whale Watch Kaikoura tour, then learn about the Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura Swim with the Dolphins.

The tour starts and ends at the Christchurch Bus Interchange, with a 7:30 am departure.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour accommodates up to 20 travelers.

Priced from $557.62 per person, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 3 days in advance.

Read our full review: 2 Day Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Tour From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability

Kaikoura Day Tour With Whale Watching From Christchurch

Travelers can embark on a captivating Kaikoura Day Tour with Whale Watching from Christchurch. Priced from $229.61 per person, this tour offers an air-conditioned vehicle, a whale watch boat trip, and a lunch of local fish and chips.

It includes kiwi snacks, WiFi, and all fees and taxes. The tour picks up from various Christchurch hotels, with a maximum of 16 travelers.

Dietary accommodations are available, and the tour is generally accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.

With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable whale watching experience just outside Christchurch.

Read our full review: Kaikoura Day Tour With Whale Watching From Christchurch Review
Book now: Check availability

The Sum Up

Kaikoura’s whale watching tours offer an unforgettable experience. You’ll have the chance to see majestic sperm whales, seals, and dolphins up close. Whether you choose a day trip or an overnight tour, you’ll be captivated by the stunning coastal scenery and abundant marine life. With several tour options available from Christchurch, you can find the perfect whale watching adventure to suit your needs.