Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 19 August
Written by August 19 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 19 August 2025:
We boarded our whale watching vessel, leaving Kleinbaai harbour behind us, heading straight into deeper waters in search of some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring visitors. Throughout the day, there were some sightings of humpback whales and Southern right whales; although their surface activity was low, we managed to get a few glimpses of them. We made our way towards Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, with some seals leaping out of the water around us, leaving everyone excited. Our trips stopped by the local shark diving vessel to get some good looks at the Bronze whaler sharks. Unfortunately, the shark activity was low in the Shallows; nonetheless, some of our trips were lucky to get their eyes on some of the individuals.
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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.
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.
Common Dolphin Common Dolphin
With an 'hourgalss' patch on either side and aerial activity the common dolphin is an agile and majestic species, that may easily reach a speed of 40km/h.
