Dolphins everywhere! Marine Big 5 daily blog
Written by March 17 2020
We launched from Kleinbaai harbour into a perfect sea. After some strong winds yesterday, the weather completely changed to no wind at all. After a stop at the shark cage diving vessels we cruised back along the coast and have been lucky to spot the elusive and shy Indian Ocean humpback dolphins. It was a small pod of only four individuals. After some great looks at the dolphins we made our way to Dyer Island. Just around the corner of Dyer Island, we spotted some splashes further out and soon realised it was a big pod of common dolphins. One of the crew’s favourite species to encounter as they always playful and like to bow ride. On our way back we stopped at the cape fur seal colony and spotted some African penguins in the water. What a fantastic day!
What species did we see today?
Common Dolphin Common Dolphin
With an 'hourgalss' patch on either side and aerial activity the common dolphin is an agile and majestic species, that may easily reach a speed of 40km/h.
Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin
Humpback dolphins are an endangered species, with small populations living very close to shore, typically in water less than 25m deep and an average home range of 120km. Their proximity to land makes these animals particularly vulnerable to human influence.
African Penguin African Penguin
As one of only 17 penguin species left in the world (and the only one on the african continent), the african penguin often breed in offshore colonies, such as Dyer Island.
Cape fur seal Cape fur seal
With a local population of 60,000, it's no wonder our guests capture so many photographs of these wonderfully playful marine mammals.
