Giant Sperm Whales
Witness the world's largest toothed predator — up to 18 m long — surfacing in Kaikoura's deep canyon year-round. Watch the iconic tail fluke rise as they dive.
The Experience
Watch Whales in Their Natural World
Your adventure begins at the Whale Watch Kaikōura terminal on Whaleway Station Road. After a short safety briefing, you board the state-of-the-art catamaran and set off along the stunning coastline.
The crew deploys a hydrophone — an underwater microphone — to track the whale's rhythmic echolocation clicks from miles away. When a sighting is called, excitement peaks aboard. The boat approaches slowly, and suddenly a massive blow rises from the ocean. Then the tail — the iconic fluke — lifts high as the whale dives back into the canyon depths.
Between whale sightings, watch dusky dolphins dart at the bow, fur seals bob in the swell, and the wandering albatross glide on three-metre wings. Every moment on the water is alive with wildlife.
Return to harbour two hours later with memories that will stay with you forever — and quite possibly the best photos of your trip.
