Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 16 November
Written by November 16 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 16 November 2024:
Little wind, less swell and loads of sun out in the bay today! Due to spring tide, we launched the first two trips out of Gansbaai Harbour, which led us around Danger Point, where the infamous HMS Birkenhead ran aground. As we made our way through deeper waters we were able to see some pelagic birds passing the boat which brought great excitement for our birders aboard. Once arrived in our bay we encountered several marine species. In deeper waters behind the island, we were lucky to have even encountered two Bryde’s whales! Around the island system, we stopped by Geyser Rock and Dyer Island where Cape fur seals were cooling down in the cold waters of Shark Alley whereas others were drying off and sunbathing on Geyser Rock and on top of the remains of the Prince Port. The endangered African Penguins could be spotted on top of Dyer Island overlooking their little bay, waddling along the beach or even swimming in open waters looking for some fish. In more shallow waters the Bronze whaler sharks surrounded the local Shark cage diving boats including Marine Dynamics vessel Slashfin, where we got some nice views of the active individuals. Southern Right whales could be seen around Danger Point or close to shore in Pearly Beach. Nice close-up looks made the trips a full success.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
