Recent Traveler Reviews
Here is a selection of the most recent reviews of the Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour from Christchurch including TranzCoastal Rail Journey submitted by actual travelers. Read what travelers liked, what they loved, and what they thought could be improved.
Wonderful day & extremely well managed by the tour company when everything went south. Everyone was accommodated and nothing was lost. I cannot say enough for the tour company personnel and the way they handled everything...especially the driver, Chris. DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!!
Reviewed by: JOE P, November 2010
We only had a short stay in NZ so wanted to see as much as we could. Guide on bus was very informative, the whale watch was good - professional, good safety briefing and equipment and we saw whales and dolphins. The train trip back enabled us to see more of the countryside. Pickups from hotel were good. Best to do 1 way coach and 1 way train.
Reviewed by: Lesley S, United Kingdom, March 2010
Very interesting and fascinating trip!
Reviewed by: Joerg L, April 2012
The care by our tour director/bus driver was excellent. We loved our trip to Kaikoura by bus and the morning tea/loo stop. Our meal at Kaikoura was 5 star and we really enjoyed the day. here was only one thing that let the day down a bit. his was nothing to do with the company or TranzScenic railway. The attitude of some of the staff of the "WhaleWatch" crew at Kaikoura left a little to be desired. .I think they just need to improve on their inter-personal and customer service skills. My mother said "good morning" to two of the crew and had absolutely no response and they were a little rude. Other than that, I would definitely recommend Viator to anyone and will use Viator again. Thank you.
Reviewed by: Patricia R, Australia, October 2008
Train component was cancelled due to track damage, and we didn't see any whales despite substituting airplane for boat. But scenery was wonderful and tour guide was entertaining, despite driving too fast. Also, I thought it was a mistake for him to meet us on main street of Kaikoura instead of picking us up where we had lunch.
Reviewed by: Harry M, Canada, October 2008
Itinerary different to that printed so rather a "mystery trip". Coach travel very pleasant with excellent driver. Whale watching boat trip exceeded 5 stars. Would have loved more time at winery.
Reviewed by: June S, Australia, October 2008
This was OK. The whale watching itself was amazing and we got to see Kaiko for a long time. The guide was nice but the wait between whale watching and the train back home was long (2.5 hours) without anything to do.
Reviewed by: Robert L, USA, May 2012
34 reviews