Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 21 April
Written by April 21 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 21 April 2024:
Another exciting day out at sea! As usual, we left Kleinbaai Harbour behind us. First, we headed into deeper waters towards Danger Point. On our way, we already encountered several pelagic birds such as Cape Gannets and numerous Sooty Shearwaters. A raft of African Penguins was also spotted. Around the same area, we were super lucky to have encountered a Bryde’s whale! We were able to get several great looks at the whale before we decided to let it be. We made our way over to the island system where a great number of seals were playing and enjoying the cool waters of Shark Alley whereas others were bathing in the sun on Geyser Rock. Heading over to Dyer Island we got some more looks of a few endangered African Penguins sitting on the island. Continuing the trip through the reef system we picked up a floating piece of kelp along the way. Ending up in the Shallows we spend some time around the Shark cage diving boats before heading back to Kleinbaai Harbour along the coastal area. On our way back we got super lucky to have encountered a pod of the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphin!
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
