Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 20 July
Written by July 20 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 20 July 2025:
We were ready for another day out at sea with beautiful conditions. Leaving Kleinbaai Harbour behind us, we spotted whales, penguins, and seals on all our trips. Due to some westerly wind coming into the bay, the trips started in deeper waters. On the lookout for whale spouts, we were able to spot Humpback whales throughout the day. The individuals were taking deeper and longer dives today, which required some patience, but we stuck around and were rewarded with some nice looks at the individuals. One Bryde’s whale was also encountered, offering an up close view of their size. Continuing through deeper waters, the island system was next. On our way to Geyser Rock, we came across Giant Petrels and even penguins on some of the trips. Arrived in Shark Alley, we passed the colony of Cape fur seals a couple of times while the seals curiously watched or followed us. A short stop closer to Dyer Island allowed a closer look at the island as well as its population of the critically endangered African Penguins and seabirds. Last but not least, we stopped by within the Shallows, hoping for a glimpse of a shark. Unfortunately, it was rather quiet around the boats, however, on the return to Kleinbaai Harbour, one Indian Ocean humpback dolphin was sighted between the breakers.
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
