Kaikoura Whale and Dolphin Overnight Tour from Christchurch

This company is nothing more than an intermediary that adds ZERO value to your experience. Rather, they are pretty incompetent when it comes to setting up an itinerary for you. We wanted an overnight stay at Kaikoura and came across this tour. Told them over phone that in our group of 3, two do not swim. For reasons they alone know, they made no note of it and booked 3 swim tickets with the tour operator. They did not inform us either that there were swim and watch options with different ticket prices. We learnt of this option only once we got to the tour centre and spoke to the front desk there. The only option we had was to use the "swim" tickets on a "watch" tour as that's what Leisure Tours had got for us. And no, we do not get our money back for having paid for the pricier "swim" tickets. Taking it up with these guys later, they said - but you booked a "swim" tour, failing to realize or acknowledge that they did not offer the watch option. They also refused to accept that I had informed them about the swimming abilities/preferences of my group. And also that since we went ahead with the tour, there was no change or refund they would be offering. How exactly did they expect us to not go ahead with the tour when we reached Kaikoura, I fail to understand. It was well within their means to book different tickets for members of our group but they just did not go beyond their scripted offering/pay heed to the customer's needs. Those looking for a good experience, with a bit more of research (and learnings from customers like myself), will realise that one does not need these guys to book a good experience. In fact, one would be better off doing it by themselves if they are willing to drive on their own than getting mixed up with these mediocre tour companies. Rent a good vehicle, go on your schedule. It will be heaps more comfortable than their 12 seater vans. There are a handful of tour companies running these cruises and some good hotels to stay in Kaikoura. Go ahead and book them yourself - don't rely on these guys. This is not a criticism of the tour company, but a broad recommendation to travellers. Do your own research, DO NOT trust Leisure Tours to look at it from a your perspective. They are just incapable of that. They are in it only for the money and have no value for your experience.

Pete is an Absolutely fantastic guide from Leisure Tours. Super informative. Had so much great information during the drive to and from whale boat (2 hours each way). He really took excellent care of us and and made sure we had a blast. The whale watching (not leisure tours) was pretty good. We drove around for a while while they tracked a whale. He finally came up for a few minutes and then dove. Certainly not the most exciting whale watching I’ve ever done. But that’s what Sperm whales do. Impressive location. Great crew on the boat - also very informative.

Our visit to Kaikora for whale watching was cancelled due to bad weather by guide Tania was so considerate, jolly and sincere that in the evening way back to Christchrch we stopped for seal watching and went to Georges Road Wines and enjoyed wine tasting . Full 5 stars for efficient, friendly and punctual staff .