Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 14 October
Written by October 14 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 14 October 2026:
Early departures from Kleinbaai Harbour started us off for a day filled with memorable marine life encounters. The shallow waters of the bay boasted our cetaceans, including the Indian Ocean Humpback dolphins as well as the visiting Southern Right whales, of which we sighted multiple pairs. Curious calves and calm mothers provided unique encounters with these gentle giants. At the shark cage diving operations, Bronze whaler shark activity was impressive, allowing guests insight into the behaviour of one of our bay’s apex predators. The African penguins awaited us on Dyer Island, with members of the nesting colony scattered across the rocky substrate. The final member of the Marine Big 5, the Cape fur seals, charmed guests with their playful nature in Shark Alley. The day’s sightings concluded with the impressively sized Southern elephant seal taking rest during their moulting on Geyser Rock.
TripAdvisor – https://bit.ly/2YZ0jDR
Google – https://g.page/r/Caej8uYZYnR8EBE/review
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WhaleWatchSA
What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
