Albatross Encounter is a bird-watching tour by boat, offering the opportunity to get ‘up close and personal’ with magnificent albatrosses off the beautiful Kaikoura Coast. Kaikoura offers the unique opportunity of seeing the largest number of species of ocean going (pelagic) bird for any coastal area of similar size in the world. Expert commentary is included and outstanding photography opportunities are assured; it is usual to see up to 11 species of albatross, plus petrels, shearwaters, terns and gulls. Travel time to view the birds is short by comparison to most other pelagic tours. Within the tour time of 2.5 hours, it is not uncommon to see a full range of species due to deep, nutrient-rich water very close to shore.

Duration: 2.5 hours. Season: All year. Operating hours: Daily (weather permitting) 6am, 9am & 1pm (summer); 9am & 1pm (winter).