Our 7 Best New Zealand Whale Watching Trips

1.Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 3,089 reviews · 3h 30m · from $104Our pick

Cruise from Kaikoura for just over two hours in search of sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and wandering albatross. Your English-speaking crew uses marine science, Māori knowledge, a hydrophone, and an onboard tracker to explain what you see. The modern catamaran has outdoor viewing decks, air-conditioned seating, and space to spread out.

“Thoroughly enjoyed - great to see the Sperm Whale, but even better to encounter a pod of circa 300 dolphins who we watched for 15-20 minutes. Would happily do the trip again.”

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2.Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,906 reviews · from $111

Cruise Kaikoura’s unusually deep coastal waters on a purpose-built catamaran with live commentary from an experienced crew and marine specialists. You may see sperm whales, dusky dolphins, seals, albatross, and other seabirds. The trip lasts about 3.5 hours, including transfers, with up to 2.5 hours at sea. Seasickness medication is worth considering.

“Very professional, informative, fun trip. Staff are amazing, boat is beautiful, seamless experience.”

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3.Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,790 reviews · from $135

Cruise Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf for 4.5 hours aboard a 65-foot catamaran. Marine research scientists explain whales, dolphins, seabirds, and conservation work as you pass Rangitoto, Motutapu, and other islands. Depart from Viaduct Harbour, bring warm layers and sunscreen, and remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

“Wonderful start to finish with excellent staff, more dolphins than I ever expected and endless beautiful views all around the gulf. Can’t recommend this highly enough!”

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4.Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,072 reviews · 4h 30m · from $130

Set out from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour aboard the 65-foot Dolphin Explorer for a 4.5-hour search for whales, bottlenose dolphins, orcas, seabirds, and other marine life. Your English-speaking crew includes skippers and marine scientists who explain sightings and carry out research. You get a free return cruise if no marine mammals appear.

“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.”

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5.Whale Watching Flight with Commentary

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 823 reviews · 40 min · from $131

Fly from Kaikoura Airport with Air Kaikoura for a 30-minute whale-watching flight, with a guaranteed window seat and English commentary from your pilot. You may see sperm whales, dolphins, orcas, humpbacks, or blue whales, then enjoy sweeping views of the Kaikoura coast and snow-covered ranges.

“We absolutely enjoyed the flight. Ben is very professional and gave us great information. Thanks so much. We saw a couple of sperm whales and many dolphins!”

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6.Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins and Islands Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★3.9 · 292 reviews · 6 - 8 hours · from $92Best value

Cruise from Auckland’s Viaduct through Tikapa Moana, searching for dolphins, Bryde’s whales, seabirds, and other marine life. You’ll also stop at Rotoroa Island for a short walk or Man O’ War Vineyard on Waiheke for wine, food, and a swim. Live English commentary, toilets, snacks, and a licensed café are onboard.

“Had an incredible experience with Tikapa Moana! We saw plenty of dolphins along the way and were lucky enough to spot a whale in the distance — truly unforgettable. The stop at Rotoroa Island was magical, with breathtaking views that made the whole trip even more special. Highly recommend this ride to anyone looking for a memorable adventure on the water!”

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7.Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 221 reviews · from $170Top rated

Fly over Kaikōura’s marine reserve in a small aircraft with a maximum of seven passengers. Every seat is by a window, and your pilot, including Ben or Alex on some flights, provides live commentary while searching for sperm whales, humpbacks, dolphins, orcas, and other marine life.

“We had a perfect day for our flight, unfortunately didnt see any Whales just a few dolphins. Was a little concerned to see the young pilot on his personal phone between his legs rather than looking for whales during our flight. Have done this fliRead more”

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