Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 03 May
Written by May 3 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 03 May 2025:
Today was one of those unforgettable days out at sea, bright sunshine, a crisp Easterly breeze, and nature putting on a spectacular show. Our journey began near the coastline of Danger Point, where we were thrilled to encounter a large pod of common dolphins. These sleek, playful animals were in full pursuit of schooling fish, swimming head-on toward our vessel and breaching alongside us, a breathtaking experience that left everyone in awe. As we continued toward Dyer Island, we were treated to a special sighting: a Bryde’s whale. True to its reputation for being shy and elusive, this individual surfaced just long enough for us to get some amazing looks. The journey then followed its familiar route to Dyer Island, home to the endangered African penguins and the bustling Cape fur seal colony. We also passed by our shark cage diving vessel, although we didn’t get to see any sharks, it still rounded off an incredible day spent exploring the Marine Big 5.
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
