Kaikoura Kayaking Tours – Paddle with Seals and Dolphins
Updated: 5th September 2026
Paddle the Kaikoura Coast with Seals, Dolphins & Marine Wildlife
Discover Kaikoura’s spectacular coastline from the water on a guided sea kayaking adventure. Paddle beneath the Seaward Kaikoura Mountains while looking out for New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins, blue penguins and seabirds along the Kaikoura Peninsula.
Welcome to Kaikoura – A Marine Paradise for Kayakers
Few places in the world can rival Kaikoura’s stunning natural wonders, where marine life thrives in abundance. Join Kaikoura Kayaks on a guided sea kayaking tour and experience the thrill of paddling alongside seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
Departing from their convenient Killarney Street location, these half-day kayaking adventures begin with a safety briefing and paddling instructions.
Equipped with lifejackets and all the necessary gear, you’ll paddle along the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Get up close with playful seals as they swim around your kayak, hunting for octopus and diving gracefully beneath you. Witness their feeding frenzy as pelagic birds swoop in for scraps, offering a front-row seat to nature’s spectacular show.
Along the way, you may even encounter dusky dolphins and spot the adorable Blue Penguins, along with an array of seabirds that make Kaikoura a wildlife hotspot.
Wildlife Kayaking Kaikoura
Price: $165 per person Child $85 pp
Departs: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm & 4:30 pm
Duration: 3 Hours approx
Explore Kaikoura’s Marine Wonderland
Experience the thrill of kayaking alongside New Zealand’s unique marine wildlife.
Paddle through the stunning coastal waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula, where playful fur seals dive and swim around your kayak. Keep an eye out for dusky dolphins and the delightful blue penguins that call this area home.
As you glide through the water, enjoy breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, jagged rocks, and the towering Seaward Kaikoura Mountains. This adventure promises incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable scenery.
Designed for Everyone
This tour is suitable for all ages and abilities—no prior kayaking experience is needed. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or an experienced adventurer, our professional guides will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Stay Warm and Comfortable
Our enclosed sea kayaks are stable, dry, and perfect for all weather conditions. In cooler months, we provide GORE-TEX dry pants, wetsuit booties, and jackets to keep you warm.
Dry bags are available for cameras and personal belongings.
Guided Family Kayaking
Price: $165 per person Child $85 pp
Departs: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm & 4:30 pm
Duration: 3 Hours approx.
Create Lasting Family Memories
Bring your family together for a unique kayaking adventure along the stunning Kaikoura coastline.
Paddle at a relaxed pace as you encounter playful fur seals, keep an eye out for dusky dolphins, and marvel at blue penguins in their natural habitat.
The backdrop of dramatic cliffs and towering mountains makes this a truly special experience.
Safe and Family-Friendly
Designed with families in mind, this tour is perfect for kids and adults alike. With no prior kayaking experience required, you can focus on enjoying the moment while our expert guides ensure your safety and comfort.
All-Weather Comfort
Stay warm and dry in our stable sea kayaks, equipped with GORE-TEX pants, wetsuit booties, and jackets.
Dry bags are provided for cameras and valuables, so you can capture every magical moment with peace of mind.
Guided Sunset Evening Classic
Price: $165 per person Child $85 pp
Departs: 4:30 pm
Duration: 3 Hours approx.
A Magical Sunset Experience
End your day with a peaceful paddle along the Kaikoura Peninsula as the sun dips below the horizon.
Watch fur seals hunt for octopus beneath your kayak and keep an eye out for dusky dolphins, blue penguins, and albatrosses as the light fades.
The golden hues of sunset reflecting off the water create a stunning scene you won’t want to miss.
Relax and Unwind
This tour is perfect for couples, solo adventurers, or anyone looking for a tranquil evening on the water. Glide through calm seas and soak in the breathtaking views of the Seaward Kaikoura Mountains.
Comfort and Ease
Our enclosed sea kayaks are safe, stable, and dry, ensuring you stay comfortable as you paddle. With expert guides to lead the way, you’ll enjoy a worry-free adventure while experiencing Kaikoura’s marine wonders at sunset.
Private Kayaking Tours Kaikoura
Price: $400 per person Child $200 pp
Departs: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Duration: 3 Hours approx
With a private kayak tour, it is all about you!
Tailored to Your Needs
Enjoy a completely personalized kayaking experience with our private tours.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a group seeking exclusivity, this tour is all about you.
Explore Kaikoura at Your Pace
Discover hidden gems along the Kaikoura coastline, encounter marine life like fur seals, dolphins, and penguins, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
With your guide’s undivided attention, this private tour can be as relaxing or adventurous as you desire.
Perfect for All Experience Levels
From beginners to seasoned paddlers, our guides will adapt the tour to suit your comfort and skill level. With stable, enclosed kayaks and top-notch gear, you’ll enjoy a safe and memorable adventure in Kaikoura’s pristine waters.
Matt at Kaikoura Kayaks offers hassle-free, eco-friendly tours that are safe, interactive, and loads of fun. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a thrilling private adventure, there’s a kayaking tour for everyone.
Book your Kaikoura kayaking adventure today and discover New Zealand’s stunning marine life up close! Matt Foy.
Phone: +64 3 319 7118
Email: [email protected]
Visit Our Website: www.kaikourakayaks.nz/
Kaikoura Sea Kayaking Tours – Frequently Asked Questions
What wildlife can I expect to see on Kaikoura Guided Sea Kayaking Tours?
Kaikoura guided sea kayaking tours offer opportunities to see New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins, blue penguins and a variety of seabirds as you paddle along the Kaikoura Peninsula. Wildlife sightings vary, but you may also see seals feeding and diving around the rocky coastline.
Are Kaikoura kayaking tours suitable for beginners and families?
Yes. Kaikoura kayaking tours are suitable for beginners, families and experienced paddlers, with no previous kayaking experience required. Professional guides provide safety instructions and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
What Kaikoura kayaking tours are available and when do they depart?
Choose from Wildlife Kayaking, Guided Family Kayaking, the Guided Sunset Evening Classic and Private Kayaking Tours. Wildlife and Family tours depart at 8:30 am, 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm, the Sunset tour departs at 4:30 pm, and Private tours depart at 8:30 am and 12:30 pm. Tours are approximately three hours.
What equipment is provided for Kaikoura kayaking tours?
Stable enclosed sea kayaks, life jackets and dry bags for cameras and personal belongings are provided. During cooler weather, GORE-TEX dry pants, wetsuit booties and jackets are also supplied to help keep you warm and comfortable.
What is included with a private Kaikoura kayaking tour?
Private kayaking tours provide a personalised guided experience for solo travellers, couples or groups. Your guide can adapt the pace and experience to your ability and interests while you explore the Kaikoura coastline and look for seals, dolphins, penguins and other marine wildlife.