The South African coastline is one of the greatest destinations to be mesmerised by these majestical creatures of the sea. We have gathered all the essential information you need for a whale watching trip!
The positive impact of Whale Watching
When whale watching is regulated and managed correctly, viewers will reap the benefits and see whales in their undisturbed natural habitat. Some companies educate visitors which increases their appreciation and awareness towards these mammals, but visits to the coastline also have significant benefits for the local communities and economy. It not only creates employment opportunities but also extra tourism interest for nearby towns, strengthening the country’s economy overall. The towns that offer this rare opportunity have a significant sense of pride towards them, as they create these wonderful benefits for all involved. Whilst whale-watching vessels can also do research and collect data for further studies.
When and where to visit in season
On the South Coast, known as the Whale Coast (from Cape Town, Hermanus, Mosselbay to Plettenberg Bay), sightings can be expected yearly between June and December. The species you will be able to spot are the “southern right whale” and “humpback whale”. The southern right whales migrate from icy Antarctica to South Africa from June to August for the warmer climate, where their mating and calving season will start. They also use these waters to nurture their young, you will be lucky to spot some calves with their moms.
On the East Coast (from East London to Gqeberha, Port Elizabeth and KwaZulu-Natal), sightings are also yearly between June and December with the “humpback whales” most seen for the season. They will migrate from the coasts of Hermanus up to St Lucia (KwaZulu-Natal) during the “sardine run”. This is when sardines journey towards the warmer waters of Mozambique (South Africa’s neighbouring country), creating a feeding frenzy for the “humpback whales”. Algoa Bay in Port Elizabeth is also known as the Bottlenose Dolphin Capital of the World, so be on the lookout!
Best times for sightings:
- During the mornings the wales are quite active and start their day with breakfast, the most important meal of the day!
- During late afternoons around sunset, they become active again whilst they prepare for a peaceful night ahead.
- Keep in mind that the whales’ activity can differ based on the species and time of year.
Kleinmond , De Kelders and Gansbaai all have incredible land-based lookout points, but Hermanus goes above and beyond with their whale festival.
The Hermanus Whale Festival
This is an internationally recognised festival held over 3 days at the end of September, with whale activity being at its peak for the season. In celebration of the “southern right whales” returning to the area. There is a “Whale Caller” who will blow his kelp horn to report whale sightings. All the events and activities during the festival create awareness to protect marine wildlife. There are wonderful land viewpoints and water-based whale watching options. We recommend that you book yourself in at a relaxing accommodation to soak in the beauty and charm of this fishing village.
Here are a few different companies that offer whale-watching tours based in Hermanus:
Walkerbay Adventures offers kayak tours with the whales, as well as a whale-watching walking tour.
Hermanus Whale Watchers have a 2-hour catamaran and eco-marine trips available.
Whale Expedition has a few different options for unique tailored expeditions to experience the rich marine life up close.
Southern Right Charters offer boat-based tours with trained staff that will give you all the important information about the deep sea and the creatures within.
The types of whales you can expect
There are 37 different whale and dolphin species in South African waters. Whale watchers usually focus on the spectacular species like;
- Southern right whales
- Humpback whales
- Bryde whales
- Killer whales, orcas
Click Here for more information about the different species.
Extra tips from the Beloc editors
- Plan your visit to South Africa accordingly to avoid missing out on whale watching season.
- If you are going on a boat tour, make sure to wear the right attire and apply sunscreen. Those vulnerable to seasickness, remember your remedies or medications.
- Don’t forget your camera or binoculars for the best moments!
- Keep an eye out for the following fascinating whale behaviours:
- BLOWING: When air comes through their blowhole with a spray of water.
- BREACHING: When they leap out of the water and fall back with a big splash. This behaviour is believed to be how they communicate, exercise and scratch irritations off their skin.
- LOBTAILING: This is another form of communication when the whale hits its tail on the water creating a loud noise.
- SPY HOPPING: When the whale lifts their body and head above the surface to see what is happening above the water from a different point of view.
Whale-watching is a truly memorable all-year experience. It offers a unique opportunity to see whales from both land and sea, without threatening their health or welfare and learn more about the creatures living and thriving in our big blue ocean. We hope that we have covered the need to know for your trip!
