Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 14 August
Written by August 14 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 14 August 2025:
A day of several different whales and dolphins! The day started rather early for both guests and crew here at Marine Dynamics. We started with some colder temperatures this morning but it was for sure worth it! Throughout the day we got to either encountered the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins, Southern Right & Humpback whales or even Bryde’s whales! All trips got to stop by one of our Shark cage diving vessel, where we got glimpses of our regular visitors the Bronze whaler sharks. The critically endangered African Penguins were either seen on Dyer Island or as a raft out at sea. The Cape fur seal colony, always a must, filled our guests with laughter led by the seals loud vocals. Once again, thanks everyone for joining our Marine Big 5 adventures!
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
