Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 05 March
Written by March 5 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 05 March 2026:
Due to the spring tide, we once again launched from Gansbaai Harbour this morning. In deeper waters, we were able to find both Common dolphins and a Bryde’s whale! Several pelagic seabirds were accompanying us throughout, looking for some fish. Reaching Geyser Rock, we were greeted in Shark Alley by numerous Cape fur seals. After it was time to wave goodbye, we made our way to Dyer Island, where several of the critically endangered African Penguins were sitting on top of the island. Last but not least, we made our way through the reef system towards the Shallows, where some of the local Shark cage diving companies were anchored. Lucky us, a couple of Bronze whaler sharks were investigating the divers right after we approached.
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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.
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.
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.
