Boat Based Whale Watching
Whale Watching in South Africa provides exceptional encounters with these gentle giants of the ocean. Get within 50m of them and watch as they sing their whale songs and dance to the beat of the waves, breaching, blowing and lob-tailing. An experience sure to be treasured forever.
Departing by boat from Hermanus, the Whale Coast Capital of Southern Africa. You will make your way out to Walker Bay one of the best whale watching areas in the world where you will spend time observing these magnificent creatures either mating, calving or nursing their young. It's just spectacular!
Boat Based Whale Watching Trips run 7 days a week but are strictly weather dependent and subject to availability.
Tour Duration: approx 2 hours depending on whale activity.
Departure Times: June to end November at 09h00 | 12h00 | 15h00
Please note that the tour times above may vary from the above as they are dependent on sea / tidal / weather checks and the number of people booked on the day.
We understand that your time may be limited and will therefore make every effort to meet your specific requirements. We pride ourselves on our personable approach and quality customer service.
Hermanus Whale Watching - Child Policy
- Minors (U/18yrs) must be accompanied by an adult and be under their supervision for the full duration of the tour.
- Children 0 - 3 years go for free
- All children under 11 years and under are required to wear a life jacket for the full duration of the tour. We strongly advise motion sickness syrup for infants and toddlers.
- Children aged 12 and older are classified as an adult.
Find out more about the Trip
About the Whale Watching Trip:
The Whale Watching Tour in Hermanus can last anything between 1.5 hrs to 3 hrs dependingon sea conditions, whale activity and where the whales are located but is on average 2 hrs long.
Tours leave from the New Harbour in Hermanus. You will need to arrive at least 30 min. prior to the tour time. On arrival you will receive a boat and safety briefing. All passengers will be required to sign indemnity forms prior to boarding.
Whales are observed within 50m of the boat (permit and animal safety regulations apply) but being naturally curious, often approach the boat giving you spectacular photo opportunities.
Enjoy some light refreshments while listening to the on-board commentary as the whale specialist and guide provides valuable insight to their behaviour and migratory patterns.
Marine Life You Can Encounter:
Bryde's Whales (all year round) Southern Right Whales (June - November), Humpback Whales (June to September), a variety of Dolphin species, Cape Fur Seals, Marine Birds including the African penguin
The Trip includes:
- Tea & Coffee on arrival
- Whale Watching Boat Trip (2 hrs on average)
- Experienced Whale Watching Skipper & Crew
- Whale Guide and Specialist
- Bottled water on board
What To Bring with You:
- Warm jumper or jacket (the wind can sometimes get cold on the boat)
- Hat & Sun-block
- Camera/Camcorder
- Binoculars
Optional Extras:
- Footage of the trip may be available for purchase on the day.
- Return Transfers from Cape Town are available (see our Including Transfer Option for prices)
- Accommodation can be arranged upon request.
- Any drinks or meals not specified
Safety:
The safety of our customers on every Whale Watching Tour is of utmost importance to us.
The Operators we deal with have an unblemished Safety Record and carry out regular safety checks.
No Current Info
Itinerary:
Note that the times below are a mere guideline and can change at any time.
Tours leave from the New Harbour in Hermanus.
You will be required to arrive 30 min prior to the boat launch.
Boat Departure Times: June to end November at 09h00 | 12h00 | 15h00
Please give yourslef 2 hours to make it on time
- From Cape Town, take the N2 to Somerset West/Cape Town International Airport.
- Stay on the N2 and drive straight through Somerset West, continue over Sir Lowry’s Pass in the direction of George.
- As you come down from Houwhoek Pass, keep left and head towards Hermanus on to the R43.
- Continue on the R43 straight into Hermanus. This will become Main Road
- Turn Right onto Swartdam Road
- Turn Right onto Swartdam Road
- Continue straight on Swartdam Road until you reach Still Street, turn right into the New Harbour Entrance. Here you will be required to pay a R5 entrance fee
- Continue straight until you reach the first stop street, then turn left and go down the hill towards the harbour.
