Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 19 March
Written by March 20 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 19 March 2026:
Starting our journey from Gansbaai harbour due to low tide in our bay, we made our way into deeper waters, where we were greeted by all the majestic pelagic birds that are found in our bay. A large pod of Common dolphins was seen, enhancing everyone’s excitement as they breached, leapt, and swam in the calm waters. Nearing Shark Alley, a few sheepish noises were heard as they escaped the mouths of the playful cape fur seals. Some splashed in the water while others enjoyed the glorious heat from the sun. Africa’s critically endangered penguins were also enjoying the sun’s rays as they lay on the boulders on Dyer Island. It was a bit quiet in the shallows today, with only a few bronze whaler sharks surfacing every once in a while, yet everyone was lucky to get a glimpse of the misunderstood creatures.
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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.
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.
