Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 08 January
Written by January 8 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 08 January 2024:
After not being able to head out to sea yesterday we are ready to head back out today! Leaving Kleinbaai Harbour behind us we were excited to find out what we are going to encounter today! The first trip was lucky to have spotted some of the endangered Indian Ocean Humpback dolphins, whereas the second trip got a brief glimpse of two Common dolphins in deeper waters. The amazing Bronze whaler sharks could be seen around the Shark cage diving vessels in the Shallows where we stopped by Marine Dynamics vessel Slashfin. Bringing the importance of the ecosystem closer to our guests we passed the Kelp forest and moved over to the Island System where the endangered African Penguins and the Cape fur seals were already waiting for us. Great views again of both the colonies. Once again thanks to everyone for joining our Marine Big 5 tours!
Trip 1
Trip 2
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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.
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.
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.
