Whale watching in the marine mecca that is Kaikoura

Just off the coast of Kaikoura there is a trench, and not just any trench, one so deep that it is home to a colossal range of marine habitat. The Kaikoura trench is so close to shore that you can literally stand by the side of the road, if you get lucky, with binoculars and watch dolphins and whales a short distance away.

This magical place is home to huge pods of Dusky Dolphins and several young male Sperm Whales who linger around these parts feasting on the large array of squid and small fish that survive in the depths of this deep trench.

The best way to see this vast array of sea life is to get out on the water and one of the top trip options is with Whale Watch Kaikoura. Run by locals they are a smart professional operation with excellent facilities. You feel like a VIP from the start of the tour through until the end.

Whale Watch is found just around the corner off from the main highway through Kaikoura. It’s nestled between the railway track and the stone covered beach. A long car park offers space for all vehicle types including bulky campervans. The main building is smartly presented with the booking/check in desk at the front followed by a small shop, information area and then toilets and a viewing room offering film coverage about the trip and marine life. Just outside are tables and chairs to wait around on and a short pathway leading down to the beach. It’s a lovely spot to linger at, watching fishing boats heading out and back into harbour and of course keeping your eyes peeled for a possible splash or fin in the water.

Kaikoura headland home to a vast array of marine and bird life

Once you are called onto the Whale Watch tour bus you are taken on a short journey around to South Bay to board your boat. The crew are waiting to greet you with a warm smile as you head on to one of the smartest boats I’ve ever been on.

Dan in the Captain’s Cabin, Whale Watch Kaikoura

We were informed in commentary that the boat had only been in service since December – it was smart, quiet and oh so smooth on seas that can at times be rough. The seats where comfy and the big windows opened to large outside areas with plenty of room for standing and watching.

View from the cabin on the Whale Watch boat, the decks are massive, great for spotting wildlife

We were all seated for the first part of the journey which was essentially a fast cruise across some bumpy water to the Kaikoura canyon itself. Once there our captain had a sound system, he dropped into the water to listen out for the sperm whales. Apparently, the whales make a distinctive clicking noise when they are at the bottom of the ocean hunting for fish so it’s easy to tell if one is around the vicinity -well easy to tell if you know what you are listening for! Our captain was pleased, on first listen he had heard a whale. Now it was just a matter of waiting and seeing. Whales, more whales, dolphins and seals coming soon….