Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 21 September
Written by September 21 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 21 September 2026:
Another day filled with sightings and the Big 5! Our early trips were either treated to Common dolphins, endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins or even both! Throughout the day we spotted Southern Right whale pairs within the bay. Cape fur seals were as active as always on Geyser Rock and Shark Alley. The critically endangered African Penguins were spotted on top of Dyer Island. Stopping by the Shark cage diving boats, we were also lucky to have gotten a glimpse of our beloved Bronze whaler sharks!
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
