Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 07 August
Written by August 7 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 07 August 2026:
After a bit of a stormy day yesterday, we made our way back to sea, excited for what might be waiting for us out there. On all our trips, we made sure to stop by the island system to visit both our critically endangered African Penguins on Dyer Island as well as our lively Cape fur seal colony on Geyser Rock. Throughout the day, we also tried to give everyone a glimpse of our beloved Bronze whaler sharks, found within the Shallows. On our way into deeper waters, we were on the lookout for whales. Either Southern Right whales or Humpback whales were spotted! Some have even been lucky to have encountered one of our endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins, swimming along the coastline.
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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.
Southern Right Whale Southern Right Whale
Southern right whales attract thousands of visitors every year to experience these gentle giants off the South African coast.
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.
Humpback Whale Humpback Whale
One of the best-known whale species, they are renowned for their acrobatic behaviour and complex melodious song as well as extremely long flippers and are a special favourite of Dyer Island Cruises guests and crew alike.
