Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 2 April
Written by April 2 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 02 April 2024:
After a day on land, we were ready to return to sea. It was a wind-still afternoon, but some swell was still coming through the bay. After departing from Kleinbaai harbour we spotted several diving birds, numerous Cape Gannets and some shy African Penguins. Cruising further into the bay, shortly after we stopped at the shark cage diving vessel where we saw some Bronze Whaler sharks swimming past their divers in the cage. As usual, we continued our journey further and went through deeper water to reach the islands. While out in the deep we encountered a Bryde’s whale as well as some Giant Petrels close to the boat! After spending some time with both of these species we approached Geyser Rock with all the Cape fur seals first. What a delight to watch them being so playful in the water. We also had a closer turn past Dyer Island and managed to spot some of the endangered African Penguins.
Tripadvisor – https://bit.ly/2YZ0jDR
Google – https://g.page/r/Caej8uYZYnR8EBE/review
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WhaleWatchSA
What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
Giant Petrel Giant Petrel
Around the Greater Dyer Island area we encounter both species of Giant Petrel, the Southern Giant Petrel and Northern Giant Petrel.
