Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 09 October
Written by October 9 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 09 October 2025:
What an incredible day we had here at Marine Dynamics! To say the least, starting the day early was definitely worth it. Due to the spring tide, our earlier trips either launched from or returned to Gansbaai Harbour, passing by the Danger Point peninsula. Four out of the Big 5 were spotted throughout the entire day – sharks, seals, penguins and whales! Our seasonal visitors, the Southern Right whales, decided to gather within proximity, which filled the bay with these gentle giants. Incredible looks of each individual, from flipper slapping to showing off, and even on one of our trips, we got to see a view of a lifetime – a look into the mouth, exposing its baleen plates! Each trip made a short stop past the Shark cage diving boats within the Shallows. Some have been slightly luckier than others, as on some stops, our beloved Bronze whaler sharks have taken their time before making a quick appearance. On Dyer Island, the critically endangered African Penguins could either be seen climbing rocks or relaxing by the beach, soaking in some sun. Entering Shark Alley, the noises became louder and louder as we approached Geyser Rock with its Cape fur seal colony and the big bulls looking out for potential mates.
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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.
