Pelagic Birdwatching Tours Kaikoura – Albatross Encounters
Kaikoura Pelagic Birdwatching Tours – Photograph Coastal Birdlife
Bird watching tours to see pelagic seabirds on the Kaikoura coastline with Albatross Encounter
Price: $185 per person – Child $80 per person
Departure: 6:30 am, 9:00 am & 1:00 pm
Group size: 5 passengers
Kaikoura was made famous by resident whales and dolphins. And its best-kept secret is its incredible diversity of pelagic (ocean-going) birds.
Kaikoura is also known as one of the world’s hotspots for its marine birdlife, with up to twelve species of Albatross found at various times of the year.
The tour is a sea-based operation by boat, taking you off the spectacularly stunning Kaikoura Coast.
Kaikoura’s most impressive and unique feature is the vast range of Albatross and pelagic sea birds that can be sighted with just a 15-minute boat journey from the coast, making many normally inaccessible and elusive species to locate and view.
Get up close and personal to the largest wingspan in the world!
The Albatross Encounter Tour is an unbelievable experience. It takes you to meet and photograph the majestic Albatross as he circles the boat before they come into land to join us.
Travel time to these pelagic birds is just 5-15 minutes from the coastline, and with a 10 passenger maximum, the tour is an intimate experience allowing very close proximity to these incredible birds.
Kaikoura has one of the most significant numbers of different types of seabirds within a small area than anywhere along the New Zealand coastline.
We are incredibly privileged in Kaikoura to have a vast diversity of species that visit our coastline, from the Northern and Southern Albatross to a variety of Penguin, Shearwaters and Petrels. This breathtaking tour will leave you speechless.
Price: $185 per person – Child $80 per person
Departure: 6:30 am, 9:00 am & 1:00 pm
Group size: 5 passengers
Phone: +64 3 3196777 Freephone: 0800 733 365
Email: [email protected] Visit our Website: www.albatrossencounter.co.nz
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Kaikoura Bird-Watching Tour: Spot a Variety of Amazing Bird Species
Kaikoura’s nutrient-rich waters attract a diverse array of seabirds, making it a global hotspot for pelagic birdwatching. Here are some of the fascinating species you can expect to encounter:
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Albatrosses:
- Wandering Albatross (world’s largest wingspan)
- Royal Albatross (Northern and Southern)
- White-Capped and Black-Browed Albatross
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Petrels and Shearwaters:
- Westland Petrel (endemic to New Zealand)
- Cape Petrel (striking pied plumage)
- Hutton’s Shearwater (unique to Kaikoura)
- Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrel
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Other Highlights:
- Little Blue Penguins
- Skua (Great Skua)
- Fairy Prion and Buller’s Mollymawk
Kaikoura’s bird watching tours offer the chance to see these magnificent birds up close, making it a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Top Tips for Photographing Pelagic Birdlife on the Kaikoura Coastline
Pelagic bird photography offers a unique challenge and reward for photographers. The Kaikoura coastline provides unparalleled opportunities to capture seabirds like albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters in their natural element. Here are practical tips to make the most of your pelagic birdwatching tour:
- Choose the Right Gear:
Use a lightweight, handheld camera setup for quick shots. Lenses with 70-200mm or 100-400mm ranges are ideal. Protect your gear from salt spray with weatherproof covers or cling wrap, and carry a microfiber cloth for lens cleaning. - Prepare for the Conditions:
Wear waterproof, windproof clothing and sturdy footwear for stability on deck. Bring snacks and water, and take motion sickness remedies if needed. - Understand Bird Behavior:
Watch how seabirds interact with the environment. Albatrosses often glide close to boats, while petrels dart quickly. Look for ocean features like slicks or disturbed water, which signal feeding activity. - Focus on Composition and Lighting:
Position yourself at the stern of the boat to capture birds attracted by chum. Use continuous shooting mode for action shots. Waves can add dynamic backdrops, while clear horizons create depth. - Practice Patience and Adaptability:
Pelagic environments can seem quiet at times, but bursts of activity are common. Stay alert and ready to shoot. Work with the crew—they know the best spots and can position the boat for optimal viewing. - Safety First:
Follow the crew’s instructions and be cautious on wet or moving surfaces. Always prioritize your safety.
Kaikoura’s coastline offers incredible opportunities to photograph the world’s most majestic seabirds. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to capture stunning images and enjoy the experience.