Kia Ora
Whale Watch monitors the latest public health advice and adapts the operation accordingly.
Key Themes:
- If you are unwell, have been to a place of interest in the last 14-days or are awaiting a covid test please stay home.
- Contact tracing is required so we ask you to scan in with the covid tracer app or use the manual sign-in option provided.
- We ask that you wear a face covering.
- Our cleaning procedures have been enhanced and hand sanitizer is available.
- We ask that you listen to all instructions provided by our team, please be patient and kind.
Vaccination Mandates - The Vaccine Pass - Covid19 Protection Framework
From Friday 3rd December 2021 all customers to Whale Watch will be required to present a valid New Zealand Government vaccine pass as part of the New Zealand Governments Covid19 Protection Framework to travel on our tours and enter our premises unless they are exempt.
You are exempt if;
- You are ineligible for vaccination.
- Children under 12-years and 3-months of age.
- People who are clinically exempted.
Please note: You may also be required to show a valid form of ID in the form of a current New Zealand driver’s license, Passport or 18+ Kiwi Access Card to validate your ID. Please ensure you have one of these options readily available upon request.
The message from the New Zealand Government is clear. To enjoy the full life everyone in New Zealand deserves, get vaccinated today. If you are already vaccinated, do your best to help your friends and family get their vaccinations so we can all enjoy life within the new system.
Covid19 Protection Framework
Should you have any concerns or questions in this regard, please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Support Services team.
Whale Watching tours operate every day except Christmas Day
Whale Watch ® Kaikōura is New Zealand’s ultimate year round nature experience offering visitors exciting close encounters with Giant Sperm Whales. An impressive 95% success rate means that you are guaranteed an 80% refund if your tour does not see a whale. The minimum age limit for children traveling on a Whale Watch tour is 3yrs+. See our Child Policy for further details. Due to popularity, advanced bookings are essential.
Tour times mentioned below are check-in times only, there is no need to be with us any earlier than your stated tour time to check-in.
Captain’s Cabin - Looking for greater comfort and exclusivity? The Captain’s Cabin is situated in the wheelhouse alongside the captain and watch keeper. This cabin provides our guests with exclusive access to the captain as they go about their duties as well as a dedicated tour host for the duration of the tour.
Ocean Cabin - The main passenger cabin is enclosed and large outside decks offer great viewing and photo opportunities. Spacious air-conditioned interiors are fitted with comfortable seating while large plasma screens display our award-winning marine wildlife animations. Passenger numbers for each tour are kept well below our vessel carrying capacity to ensure your tour experience remains a personal one.
