Private Wildlife Kayaking Tour - Kaikoura

4.9
(39 reviews)

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Kaikōura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998
Celebrating 27 years on the water!

New Zealand’s only sea kayak operator with a marine mammal permit to view NZ Fur Seals, Dolphins, and Whales.

Kaikōura’s exclusive kayak operator licensed for Dolphin, Seal, and Whale viewing.

NZ’s first “Friend of the Sea” sustainable operator for Dolphin and Whale encounters.

Paddle in traditional double sea kayaks with cockpits, spray skirts (for a dry ride), and rudders for easy steering.

Led by qualified sea kayak guides with local expertise.

100% guaranteed Fur Seal sightings on every tour!

Family-friendly adventures, operating year-round.

The Wildlife Kayaking Tour – the Real Deal!
Come experience Kaikōura’s incredible marine life up close in a sustainable, unforgettable way.

What's Included

Private transportation
Dry bags for camera's, all kayaking equipment, paddle jackets, wet shoes, spray skirts, dry pants, gloves and hats over the winter months.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Travel through the main street of Kaikoura South past the Information Centre towards the seal colony and take your first right off the Esplanade on to Killarney st. Please check in 15 minutes prior to departure.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Kaikoura’s Original Kayak Operator – Est. 1998 | Celebrating 27 Years!

Join Kaikoura Kayaks for an unforgettable wildlife adventure, paddling through the stunning coastal waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula.

Experience the thrill of watching New Zealand Fur Seals duck, weave, and dive around your kayak as they hunt for their favourite meal—octopus! Keep a respectful distance as they feast, and marvel as hundreds of pelagic seabirds swoop in to claim the leftovers.

As you paddle across the water, take in the breathtaking scenery of sheer cliff faces, rugged crags, and majestic mountain ranges. With a little luck, you might also encounter Dusky Dolphins or spot Blue Penguins along the way.

This guided tour is:

Fun and safe for all ages and abilities

Perfect for first-time kayakers and adventures—no experience required

Available year-round with professional guides and top safety standards

Tour Details:

Paddling time: ~1.5 hours

Total duration: ~3 hours (please arrive 15 minutes early)

Come discover why our Wildlife Kayaking Tours are one of Kaikoura’s most popular experiences!

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • In any adventure activity, there is an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this activity include, property damage, personal injury, illness because of adverse weather conditions, risk of drowning, death, sunburn, dehydration, hyperthermia, and exhaustion.
  • We recommend you bring the following: Long sleeved thermal top, Fleece (if a bit chilly), shorts or light pants e.g. quick drys, NO JEANS! Sunglasses, cap, running shoes or sandals, drinking water, camera and towel.
Supplied by Kaikoura Kayaks

Tags

Kayaking Tours
Whale Watching
On the Water
Dolphin Watching
Excellent Quality
Involves Animals
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 39 39 reviews
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