Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 18 August
Written by August 18 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 18 August 2025:
What an amazing day out at sea here at Marine Dynamics, with the weather on our side, some of our trips led us along the coastline waters, stopping by the local Shark cage diving operators within the Shallows. We got some nice looks at our regulars, the Bronze whaler sharks. On our way to Dyer Island, we were lucky enough to spot some Southern right whales releasing a spout when surfacing for air. Playful Humpback whales were spotted in deeper waters as well as a small pod of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins were encountered on the first trip in Pearl Beach. On Dyer Island, our critically endangered African penguins were a little hidden in between the rocks, but we managed to spot them, giving everyone a chance to admire our little friends in tuxedos. Now, what is a marine big five trip without our playful Cape fur seals? Our trips stopped by Geyser Rock to admire the seals jumping and swimming about.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
