Whale Watching by Plane | Family Package

Soaring high above the breathtaking Kaikoura coastline, the Family Package for whale watching by plane promises an unforgettable adventure. Passengers can expect stunning panoramic views, expert commentary, and the chance to observe majestic sperm whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. With a starting price of KD 9,566 for up to 4 people, this 1-hour scenic flight offers a unique perspective on one of New Zealand’s most captivating wildlife experiences. The small group setting and hassle-free check-in process ensure a personalized and hassle-free experience. But what exactly can travelers expect to see and learn on this aerial expedition?

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Kaikoura.

Key Points

• The family-friendly whale watching package offers a 30-minute scenic flight for up to 4 people, priced at KDÖ 9,566 per group.
• The aerial tour provides 360-degree panoramic views of Kaikoura’s coastline and the opportunity to observe sperm whales and other marine life.
• The small group size of up to 7 participants ensures a personalized experience with a live tour guide and audio guide in English.
• Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Recommendations include arriving early, packing light, and bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and warm clothing for the best experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Whale Watching Package Details

The whale watching package offered includes a family-friendly option for up to 4 people, priced from KDÖ 9,566 per group, and lasts for a total of 1 hour.

This experience begins with a 30-minute check-in process at the Kaikoura Airport, followed by a 30-minute scenic flight over Kaikoura’s stunning coastline, peninsula, and mountain ranges.

The flight features a live tour guide and audio guide in English, providing insights into the habitat and behaviors of the sperm whales.

The small group size is limited to 7 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Customers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Panoramic Views and Whale Insights

During the 30-minute scenic flight, passengers can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Kaikoura’s breathtaking coastline, majestic peninsula, and snow-capped mountain ranges.

The live tour guide and audio commentary provide valuable insights into the unique habitat and behaviors of the sperm whales, the largest toothed whales on Earth. Passengers can observe these magnificent creatures from tail to tip, gaining a deeper appreciation for their natural environment.

The flight offers an exceptional opportunity to witness:

• Sperm whales reaching up to 18 meters in length and weighing up to 60 tonnes

• Kaikoura’s year-round population of sperm whales and migratory routes of various whale and dolphin species

• The whales’ natural behaviors and interactions within their coastal environment

Whale and Dolphin Sightings

Visitors on the whale watching flight often spot a variety of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat along the Kaikoura coastline. The diverse marine life found in this region is truly awe-inspiring. From the mighty sperm whales to the playful dolphins, the sheer scale and grace of these creatures are mesmerizing to observe. The flight offers a unique vantage point, allowing guests to witness the whales and dolphins in their element, undisturbed by human activity. Whether it’s a breaching humpback or a pod of dusky dolphins, each sighting is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves a lasting impression. The following table highlights some of the majestic marine species that can be encountered during the flight:

Species	Size (meters)	Weight (tonnes)
Sperm Whale	18	60
Humpback Whale	16	30
Orca (Killer Whale)	8	6
Dusky Dolphin	2	0.1
Bottlenose Dolphin	4	0.5

Sperm Whale Facts

Sperm whales are the largest of the toothed whales, capable of reaching lengths up to 18 meters and weighing as much as 60 tonnes. These majestic creatures are found year-round in the waters around Kaikoura, serving as a migratory route for various whale and dolphin species.

Here are some fascinating facts about sperm whales:

• Sperm whales are known for their distinctive square-shaped heads and can dive to depths of over 2,000 meters in search of their primary prey, giant squid.

• They’ve the largest brains of any animal on Earth, weighing up to 9 kilograms.

• Sperm whales are highly intelligent and social animals, living in tight-knit family groups and communicating through a range of clicks, whistles, and other vocalizations.

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Aircraft and Viewing Conditions

The tour’s high-winged aircraft offer optimal viewing conditions, allowing participants to take in the 360-degree panoramic views of Kaikoura’s captivating coastline, peninsula, and mountain ranges. Each passenger has their own window seat, ensuring an unobstructed vantage point to spot the majestic sperm whales and other marine life. To enhance the experience, the flights comply with the Department of Conservation’s Marine Mammal Regulations, ensuring a safe and responsible tour.

Viewing Conditions	Description
Aircraft Type	High-winged for optimal viewing
Seating	Individual window seats
Regulations	Comply with DOC Marine Mammal Regulations
Visibility	360-degree panoramic views
Group Size	Limited to 7 participants

Meeting and Check-in Location

The large log cabin at Kaikoura Airport serves as the meeting and check-in location for the Whale Watching by Plane experience.

Guests will undergo an electronic check-in process followed by a briefing on whales and safety. Free parking is available, including for camper vans, making it convenient for visitors to arrive and depart.

The check-in process is straightforward:

• Guests check-in electronically inside the log cabin.

• They receive a safety and whale briefing to ensure a safe and informative flight.

• Afterward, they’re directed to the aircraft, ready to embark on their aerial whale watching adventure.

This efficient check-in system allows the experience to run smoothly, setting the stage for an unforgettable day observing Kaikoura’s magnificent marine life from above.

Customer Feedback Overview

Feedback on the Whale Watching by Plane experience has been mixed, with customers providing a range of perspectives on the tour.

While some praised the flight and staff, others found the tour overpriced and preferred boat tours instead.

The overall rating for the experience is 3.8 out of 5, based on 4 reviews.

Common suggestions from customers include bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and warm clothing to enhance the experience.

Trip Planning Suggestions

In an article titled ‘Whale Watching by Plane | Family Package’, it is now time to discuss the current points ‘Trip Planning Suggestions’. To make the most of the Whale Watching by Plane experience, customers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and warm clothing, as recommended by previous reviewers. Bringing these items can enhance the overall enjoyment and comfort during the aerial tour.

Other tips to consider include:

• Arrive early to the Kaikoura Airport to ensure a smooth check-in process and have time for the whale and safety briefing.
• Pack light and avoid bringing large bags or luggage to make boarding the aircraft easier.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning 360-degree views and wildlife sightings during the flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Flight?

Yes, customers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the flight. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policy and any restrictions that may apply.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Activity?

There is no minimum age requirement for the whale watching activity. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, providing they are accompanied by a responsible adult. The tour operator aims to accommodate families of all sizes.

Do You Offer Discounts for Larger Groups?

Yes, the company offers discounts for larger groups. The package price of KД$д 9,566 is for up to 4 people, so larger groups would pay a lower per-person rate. Specific group discounts can be provided upon request.

Can I Purchase Additional Flight Time or Upgrades?

You can inquire about purchasing additional flight time or upgrades. The company may offer options to extend your experience or provide premium services for an additional fee. Their staff can provide details on any available upgrades.

How Frequent Are the Flight Schedules During the Day?

The flight schedules for this activity vary throughout the day, with multiple departures typically available. Exact departure times may depend on factors like weather and demand. It’s best to check with the operator for the current schedule.

Recap

This whale watching experience from the sky offers a unique and thrilling opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

With a scenic flight, guided commentary, and the chance to spot both whales and dolphins, it’s an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, while the hassle-free check-in process makes trip planning a breeze.

You can check if your dates are available here: