Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 16 June
Written by June 16 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 16 June 2026:
Due to the spring tide and the water levels being too low to launch from Kleinbaai, our guests and crew made their way to Gansbaai Harbour. As a result, we were led past the Danger Point peninsula, which holds great historical significance, as the infamous HMS Birkenhead still lies aground. Around the same area, we spotted a Humpback whale, which started super relaxed before it surprised us with a breach and some tail throwing! As always, we made our way towards the island system, allowing us some looks at the critically endangered African Penguins either close to Dyer Island or in deeper waters. Thousands of Cape fur seals on Geyser Rock and world-famous Shark Alley were waiting patiently for our arrival. Within our bay, we met our Shark cage diving vessel Slashfin, for some sightings of several Bronze whaler sharks roaming the area. Due to the water levels rising, we were able to make our way into Kleinbaai Harbour.
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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.
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.
