whale watching gansbaai, south africa

The three main whale species that visit our shores are Southern Right, Humpback and Bryde’s whales. The Southern Right Whales are the main species that we see every year. The good news is that their numbers seem to be increasing. The bulls are always first to arrive so that they can have the best chances to mate with the arriving females. The main reason for the Southern Right Whales coming to our coast is to mate or to calve. While they are here, they can often be seen breaching and landing back in the water, creating a massive splash. If you are near enough, the splash can clearly be heard. Spyhopping is also very common, with the whale sticking it’s head out above the water to seemingly have a look around. Lobtailing is awesome to experience, with the whale sticking it’s fluke or tail fin out of the water and bringing it down on the surface with a huge splash and a loud slapping noise.

All trips are weather and tide-dependent, and launch times may vary accordingly from those stated. Your launch time will be confirmed the day before.

The boat, Dream Catcher, is the first boat in South Africa to be designed specifically for whale watching. It is extremely comfortable and spacious, with onboard toilets, an observation deck for photography enthusiasts, a PA system and even a hydrophone! Dream Catcher is 14m long and complies with all the safety regulations set out by the marine authorities.

Once you have arrived at The Great White House, you will receive a brief introductory talk about the route, safety, and what to look out for. Passengers are fitted with comfortable life jackets and waterproof jackets. Safety is of the utmost importance.

Whale Watching Trip length is between 2 and 2.5 hours, depending on sightings and weather conditions. All cruises depart from Kleinbaai harbour near Gansbaai. Dyer Island is located 8 km from shore and is an access-controlled Important Bird Area (IBA) for the conservation of its many resident bird species, including African penguins. 

Adjacent to Dyer Island is Geyser Rock, home to a 60,000-strong Cape fur seal colony. These seals are present year-round. We will take you into the channel of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, known as the world-famous ‘Shark Alley’. We will then take you to the whale hotspots in the bay. With over a decade of experience, not only do we know where to expect the best whale viewings, but the whales have also learned where to expect us!

We pride ourselves on being both fun and educational. Each trip is led by experienced marine biologists and guides who will share their knowledge with you, keeping the emphasis on the welfare and conservation of the animals. Responsible tourism is our main objective so we focus on conservation, education, community upliftment and safety.

The boat is surveyed annually by the SA Maritime Safety Authority, conforms to its specifications and is licensed and fully insured for 50 passengers and 6 crew. Safety equipment includes a first aid kit, a radio and a cellular phone. All clients have to sign an indemnity form on arrival before they can ride, no sign no ride.

 Kids under 5 years old are free of charge.

When Is Season: Eco Marine Trips – 01st January to 31st May:: Whale Watching Trips –1st Jun to 31st December. Seven days a week – weather dependent.

At the Great White House, you will receive a brief introductory talk about the route, safety, and what to look out for. We then take a 200-metre stroll down to the harbour to board.

Weather: Due to variable weather conditions, the trip may not always be possible and is therefore not guaranteed. Time-related itineraries are dependent on tides, weather conditions and the number of tours scheduled for a particular day.

What to Wear: Always bring warm clothing as it is cooler at sea than on land. Comfortable shoes /takkies.

Things to bring: binoculars, camera, warm clothing.

Guests or Spectators: Always bring warm clothing as it is cooler at sea than on land. Please remember to use sunscreen. Please use anti-seasickness medication well in advance if you are prone to motion sickness.

The Southern Right Whales are so named because they were seen as the right whales to hunt. Their curious and friendly nature made them easy targets. Harpooning was banned in 1937. They are easily distinguished by the callosities that form on their heads. It is where the skin hardens and thickens due to continuous abrasion. The callosities appear white because of large colonies of whale lice that inhabit the hardened skin spots. The whale’s back is very broad and has no dorsal fin. The unique long arching mouth begins just above the eye. These whales feed on krill, very small crustaceans that resemble shrimp.

Need accommodation in Gansbaai? You have a choice of seven impeccably decorated bedrooms. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and private entrance. A three-minute walk takes you to the rocks of what is named the Walker Bay Whale Reserve.

When visiting Mossel Bay in South Africa’s Garden Route, then cage diving should be at the top of your adventure list! As the weather permits, Mossel Bay’s only operator goes out everyday. Since resuming operations in September 2020, Mossel Bay has recorded fantastic great white shark sightings.

The hottest great white shark sightings in South Africa this year were recorded from Mossel Bay. Great White and Hammerhead Sharks are included in the sightings.