Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 01 April
Written by April 1 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 01 April 2025:
We had a good day at sea with all of the Marine Big 5 on both tours. Due to low tide, the first trip returned to Gansbaai where the second tour of the day launched from, but it is always a great treat going around Danger Point. On both trips, various seabirds were spotted as well as Bryde’s whales. At the two islands, we saw the penguins and Cape fur seals and picked up an injured penguin on the second trip that was brought to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary. Along the coast we saw Bronze Whaler sharks and a Short-tailed stingray at the shark cage diving boat. Close to the estuary, the humpback dolphins were spotted in the swell.
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What species did we see today?
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.
Bronze Whaler Shark Bronze Whaler Shark
The Bronze whaler (also known as Copper sharks) here in Kleinbaai are very curious and interactive. These sharks eat mostly fish, with sardines being one of their favourites.
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.
Brydes Whale Brydes Whale
The mysterious Bryde's whales visit the Dyer Island area throughout the year, with most sightings occurring during summer into winter.
Cape Gannet Cape Gannet
Well documented for their aireal displays, experiences with with the famous Cape Gannet are always breath taking, and hold a special place in every photographers portfolio.
