Set on the Cape Whale Coast just two hours southeast of Cape Town the small seaside town of Hermanus is renowned for being one of the best places in the world to see whales from land. The surrounding waters remain deep and close to shore, so migratory southern right whales, along with resident Bryde’s whales, swim right into the bay, visible even from the beaches and clifftops.

Hermanus Whale Watchers offers an unforgettable marine adventure from January till the end of May.

You can now add an educational and highly enjoyable marine eco-tour to your Hermanus itinerary. We offer a daily departure which is weather and sea depending. This activity is the ideal experience for local visitors and international tourists.

We will launch from the new harbor and follow the jagged and scenic coastline and into Walkerbay  Sanctuary with its plethora of marine wildlife.

On any given trip there is a possibility that we might encounter dolphins, seals, penguins, abundant birdlife, and even  Bryde’s Whales, all residing in harmony in their natural habitat.

TRIP DETAILS:

• Trip Duration – 1 ½ hour
• Trip departs 9 am daily(weather & sea conditions permitting)
• Maximum of 36 pax per trip
• Ideal for families of all ages and large tour groups

DEPARTURE TIMES

Daily departure: 09h00

January – May: Discover the bird & marine wildlife along the scenic coastline and in the Walkerbay sanctuary.

INCLUDED IN TRIP

• Life jackets
• Mineral water

TOUR DETAILS

Rates

• R 600 Adults
• R 450 Children U/13 years
• Free Children U/ 5yrs

(Valid from 1 December- 31 May 

DIRECTIONS

• Click on Hermanus Whale Watchers Google Map Pin
• Hermanus Whale Watchers crew house first bright orange building on your right-hand side as you enter the New Harbour. Ample parking is available.

Helpful Hints And Tips

• Seasickness

Motion sickness medications are available at most pharmacies and must usually be taken a few hours prior to the trip. Sadly, once your trip begins, it is too late to effectively take anything.

• A few helpful hints if you start to feel queasy.

Nibble on crackers and sip on ginger ale. It can really help to have something in your stomach. Look at the unmovable horizon to help the equilibrium. Loosen any tight clothing to breathe more freely. Alert the crew who will assist.

• Eat a good breakfast.

It is a wrong assumption that no food in your stomach means you won’t get seasick. In fact, the opposite is true. An empty stomach produces acids and can, in fact, make you sick. Eat a good carbohydrate breakfast and rather avoid fatty or fried foods.

• Drink lots of water

Don’t get dehydrated! Avoid drinks that are high in sugar. Free bottled water is available on the boat.

• Keep Warm

It is always colder on the ocean than on land. Dress in layers. On choppy days the crew will close the transparent curtains to keep the cabin dry.

• Remember to bring sunblock and sunglasses

We are in the summer season and if your skin is unprotected during your trip you might get sunburned. Water reflects and magnifies the sun rays. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from glare on the water

•  Kiddies on board

We love having the ocean’s future custodians on board! However, children must be supervised by a parent or guardian for the full duration of the trip. For safety reasons do not allow your children to run around the boat. Make it safe, make it fun.

• Photo Tips

Your photos will have more animals and less water if your camera is fitted with a zoom lens. On a very sunny day, a polarised lens will help reduce sun glare. But remember, the perfect shot is pure luck!

Join us on a marine safari and fall under the spell of the  Whale Coasts’ natural splendour .