Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 17 March
Written by March 17 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 17 March 2025:
Another incredible day out at sea! Welcoming our guests aboard Dream Catcher we left Kleinbaai Harbour behind us and headed towards the natural estuary where we spotted a pod of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins close by feeding! Shortly after we arrived at Marine Dynamics Shark cage diving vessel Slashfin a few Bronze whaler sharks where actively investigating divers in the cage. Next up, was the island system. Approaching the island closer we were able to see a few of the critically endangered African Penguins hanging out on the island or in nearby waters. Entering Shark Alley the Cape fur seals made themselves known vocally before we even got our eyes on them. Heading up and down the alley we were either followed or watched by the seals on Geyser Rock. Last but not least we headed into deeper waters. While on the lookout for some more marine wildlife, a Bryde’s whale surfaced close to the boat. Heading towards the same direction as the individual we came across a bunch of pelagic birds indicating fish underneath the surface.
Tripadvisor – https://bit.ly/2YZ0jDR
Google – https://g.page/r/Caej8uYZYnR8EBE/review
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WhaleWatchSA
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.
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.
Cape Gannet Cape Gannet
Well documented for their aireal displays, experiences with with the famous Cape Gannet are always breath taking, and hold a special place in every photographers portfolio.
