How to Plan Your Whale Watching Cruise in Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a beautiful coastal town located on the northeastern coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is renowned for its rich marine life, where it’s possible to catch a glimpse of some of the most magnificent creatures that the ocean has to offer. One of the most famous tours in Kaikoura is the whale watching cruise that provides you the opportunity to see sperm whales in their natural habitat. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to plan your whale watching cruise tour in Kaikoura.Step 1: Research the Best Time to Visit
Before booking your whale watching tour, you should research the best season to visit Kaikoura. The whale watching season in Kaikoura runs from October to March, which is the summer season of New Zealand. During the summer season, you will have a higher chance of spotting whales and other marine life forms such as dolphins, seals, and albatrosses.Step 2: Find a Reputable Tour Company
Once you have decided on the best time to visit Kaikoura, the next step is to find a reputable tour company that offers a whale watching cruise. One such tour company is GetYourGuide. They provide a 2-hour cruise, and you will receive narration from their expert crew. The tour also comes with an award-winning animation, food, and drinks.Step 3: Book Your Tour
After researching and deciding on a tour company, you can proceed to book your whale watching tour. The link to book the tour is https://www.getyourguide.com/activity/-t226204?partner_id=UWJ1LS2 You can book the tour online, and it is always advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak season.Step 4: Prepare for Your Tour
Before going on your whale watching tour, there are a few things you should prepare. First, you should dress appropriately to keep warm and dry, especially as it can be quite chilly and windy when out at sea. We recommend wearing several layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket, and closed-toe shoes. Secondly, you should bring a camera to capture the magnificent views and sightings.Step 5: Enjoy Your Experience
It’s time to embark on your whale watching cruise and enjoy your experience! During the tour, you will come across the giant sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and wandering albatross. You will also admire stunning views of the mountainous coastline. The narration provided by the expert crew will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the marine life.Book Your Tour Now
If you plan to visit New Zealand’s South Island, do not miss the opportunity to experience the whales and marine life that Kaikoura has to offer. Remember to research the best time to visit, find a reputable tour company, book your tour in advance, prepare for your tour, and most importantly, enjoy your experience.| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You get to see some of the most magnificent creatures in their natural habitat | It can be quite chilly and windy at sea |
| Expert narration is available to enhance your appreciation of marine life | Not suitable for children under three years |
| Admire stunning views of the mountainous coastline | The tour takes two hours, which can seem long for some people |
FAQs About Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a small coastal town on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine life. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kaikoura:1. How do I get to Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, about a two-hour drive from Christchurch. The most common way to get there is by car, either by renting a car or by taking a shuttle bus from Christchurch. There are also regional bus companies that service Kaikoura, but they are less frequent.2. What should I do in Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is known for its marine life, so the top activities to do in the area are related to the ocean. Whale watching is the most popular activity, as Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales year-round. Other popular sea-based activities include swimming with dolphins, seal colony tours, and fishing. There are also plenty of land-based activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the local vineyards.3. When is the best time to visit Kaikoura?
The best time to visit Kaikoura depends on what you want to do. Whale watching and other sea-based activities are available year-round, but the best time to see them is in the winter months of June through August. During this time, the whales come closer to the shore, and the weather is generally cooler and calmer. The summer months of December through February are the best time to enjoy land-based activities, as the weather is warm and sunny. However, these months are also the busiest and can be more expensive.4. What should I pack for my trip to Kaikoura?
Pack for the weather, which can be variable in Kaikoura. Even in the summer months, it can be chilly and rainy at times, so be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and layers. If you’re planning on doing sea-based activities, bring a bathing suit, towel, and sunscreen. Hiking boots and a daypack are also recommended for outdoor activities.5. Is it safe to swim with dolphins and seals in Kaikoura?
Yes, it’s generally safe to swim with dolphins and seals in Kaikoura, as long as you follow the instructions of your guide. Most companies will provide wetsuits and other safety equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. However, always be aware of the risks associated with any sea-based activity, including cold water temperatures, currents, and marine life.6. Can I see other marine life besides whales in Kaikoura?
Yes, Kaikoura is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and sea birds. Many tour companies offer seal colony tours or swimming with dolphins experiences. If you’re lucky, you may even spot orcas, humpback whales, or other species of whales.7. What are some local delicacies to try in Kaikoura?
Kaikoura is known for its seafood, especially crayfish (lobster) and paua (abalone). You can find these delicacies at many restaurants and fish markets in the town. Other local specialties include wild game, such as venison and rabbit, and local wines and beers.8. Is there any accommodation available in Kaikoura?
Yes, there are many accommodation options in Kaikoura, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, holiday parks, and backpackers hostels. Prices vary depending on the season, with summer months being more expensive than winter months.9. What are some nearby attractions to visit from Kaikoura?
There are several nearby attractions to visit from Kaikoura, including: – Hanmer Springs, a hot springs resort town located about a two-hour drive inland from Kaikoura – Marlborough wine region, known for producing some of New Zealand’s best wine, located about a two-hour drive north from Kaikoura – Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, located about a two-hour drive south from Kaikoura10. Is Kaikoura affected by earthquakes?
Kaikoura was heavily affected by a powerful earthquake in 2016, which caused significant damage to the town and its infrastructure. However, the town has since recovered, and most attractions and activities are now fully operational. Always be aware of the risk of earthquakes and follow any instructions or precautions provided by local authorities.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kaikoura: A Comprehensive Guide
Kaikoura is a beautiful coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island. It’s small, friendly, and offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience its stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to Kaikoura, you might be wondering how to spend your time there. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit.Getting There and Around
Before you start exploring, you’ll need to get to Kaikoura. The town is approximately two and a half hours north of Christchurch by car. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride on the Coastal Pacific train from Christchurch, which takes around five hours. Once you arrive, you can get around Kaikoura by car, bike, or on foot. There are several car rental companies in town, and there are also bike rental options. Walking is a great way to explore the town center and its shops, cafes, and restaurants.Go Whale Watching
One of the must-do things in Kaikoura is going whale watching. The town is known for being one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales, and there are several companies offering tours. You’ll be taken out on a boat to see these majestic creatures up close, and you might also spot dolphins, fur seals, and albatross.Visit the Seal Colony
If you want to see even more wildlife, head to the Ohau Point Seal Colony. This is an easy walk from the car park, and you’ll be able to see hundreds of New Zealand fur seals basking in the sun on the rocks. It’s a truly unique experience and one that you won’t forget.Explore the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
For stunning views of the coast and mountains, take a walk along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. This three-hour loop track takes you through coastal forest, across beaches, and up to lookout points with amazing vistas. Along the way, you might spot seabirds, seals, and dolphins.Relax in the Hot Pools
After a day of exploring, why not relax in the natural hot pools at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa? This spa is about an hour and a half from Kaikoura by car, but it’s definitely worth the trip. The hot pools are surrounded by beautiful gardens, and there are also spa treatments available.Go Fishing
If you love fishing, you’re in luck. Kaikoura is a popular fishing destination, with opportunities to catch salmon, trout, and crayfish. You can go fishing on your own or join a guided fishing tour.Try Maori Culture Experiences
Kaikoura has a strong Maori cultural heritage, and there are several ways to learn about and experience this culture. You can take a guided tour of a Maori village, see Maori carvings, and try traditional Maori food.Experience Kaikoura’s Culinary Scene
Kaikoura is known for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes offering delicious dishes made with locally caught fish and shellfish. You can also try other local specialties, such as crayfish and paua (abalone).Summary
There are plenty of things to do in Kaikoura, from whale watching and seal spotting to hiking and enjoying the hot pools. With its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and friendly atmosphere, Kaikoura is a must-visit destination in New Zealand.Table of Contents
