Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 20 October
Written by October 20 2024

Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 20 October 2024:
After another long day out at sea, we can say it was worth it! Due to spring tide, we had to launch or return from Gansbaai Harbour for the first trips. The first trip was super lucky as we spotted a pod of Common dolphins close to the island. Once we made our way into our local bay we haven’t had to wait long for the first encounters. Even though we had to face some wind and swell out there it was a beautiful sunny day which some of our local Cape fur seals and African Penguins did not miss. A few individuals were spotted out in the open which we had passed on our way to the island system where even more Cape fur seals were waiting for us. Thousands of seals were using the sun to warm up whereas others were cooling down in Shark Alley. The endangered African Penguins were sunbathing as well on top of the island. Several Bronze whaler sharks were seen around Marine Dynamics Shark cage diving vessel Slashfin. As great visibility continued we could even see some sharks surrounding our boat. We also got some beautiful sightings of our visitors the Southern Right whales in closer proximity to shore before it was time to head back to land.
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.