Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 04 March
Written by March 4 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 04 March 2026:
Another day here at Marine Dynamics has come to an end. Both trips were accompanied by pelagic bird species such as Giant Petrels and Sooty Shearwaters. Even though the deeper waters were filled with birds, the marine life was rather quiet towards the start. Later in the day, a Bryde’s whale did appear from the depths! The critically endangered African Penguins were either seen on top of Dyer Island, around their most favourite hangout spot or in the open. Cape fur seals were, as always, practising their vocals on Geyser Rock or cooling themselves down in the clear waters of Shark Alley. A stop by the local Shark cage diving boats was possible for the second trip of the day, where Bronze whaler sharks were encountered. Close to shore, one of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins made an appearance.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
