Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 06 January
Written by January 6 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 06 January 2025:
What a wonderful time out at sea we had once again! We departed Kleinbaai Harbour rather early again, wasting no time. Planning on our usual route we stopped by several different areas and observed open waters. Within the Shallows, a popular Shark cage diving spot, we visited the Marine Dynamics vessel Slashfin. Only anchoring shortly before our arrival, both groups were lucky for instant Bronze whaler shark appearances. Considered a schooling species we encountered not just one but several individuals cruising in between the boats and cutting the surface with their beautiful copper-coloured dorsal fins. The island system is a mandatory stop for all guests and bird lovers, granting us sightings of several bird species such as Terns, Cape Cormorants and our beloved critically endangered African Penguins on Dyer Island. Cape fur seals having a blast in the cool waters of Shark Alley, while others were relaxing and socializing on the busy grounds of Geyser Rock. On both trips, we were lucky to have spotted whales and dolphins. We got glimpses of the elusive Bryde’s whales in deeper waters. On the first trip, along the coastline, we spotted a small pod of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphin while on the second trip, we encountered a pod of Common dolphins interacting with our boat!
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
