Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 09 May
Written by May 9 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 09 May 2025:
Today we started the day rather early to avoid stronger winds coming our way this afternoon and the following weekend. Excited to use this morning’s opportunity, we welcomed our guests aboard Dream Catcher. Leaving Kleinbaai Harbour behind us, we started our lookout for marine wildlife. No corner will be left out as we want to get the best out of every trip! On the lookout for the Marine Big 5, we covered coastal areas, deep waters, as well as the island system. On both Geyser Rock and Dyer Island, the Cape fur seal colony and the critically endangered African Penguins were sunbathing, trying to warm up in today’s chilly temperatures. Stopping by the Marine Dynamics Shark cage diving vessel, Slashfin, we kept our fingers crossed for some shark activity. An individual made an appearance, but unfortunately did not cut the surface. A few Bryde’s whales were spotted in our bay, but only one individual surfaced a few times for us to take some amazing looks at it! A bit of patience is required, but worth it in the end! Our last sighting for today was two of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins along the coastline, around their favourite hangout spot!
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
