Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 14 July
Written by July 14 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 14 July 2025:
Another busy day here at Marine Dynamics! Due to the spring tide continuing, we once again either launched from or returned to Gansbaai Harbour, passing Danger Point. On all our trips, we were able to get some amazing looks at four out of the Marine Big 5: whales, sharks, seals, and penguins. In deeper waters, we encountered our seasonal visitors, the Humpback whales. Within our bay, we managed to catch a glimpse of our all-year-round residents. Thousands of Cape fur seals were sunbathing on Geyser Rock, while some splashed around in the cool waters of Shark Alley. A short stop close to Dyer Island allowed a look at the critically endangered African Penguins. Some even got to see a small raft in open waters. A stop at our Shark Cage diving vessel, Slashfin, guaranteed nice looks at the incredible Bronze whaler sharks! Additionally, clients were able to witness the largest bony fish in our oceans, the sunfish, topping off the species sightings for the day.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Cape Cormorant Cape Cormorant
One of the most famous species of Cormorant in the Western Cape, the Cape Cormorant is well known for it's beautiful turquoise eye and impressive size.
Sunfish
