Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 22 December 2025
Written by December 22 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 22 December 2025:
Our day started overcast, but luckily the sun came through quickly. After departing Kleinbaai Harbour, we cruised along the coastline and soon reached the shark cage diving boats, where we enjoyed excellent views of Bronze whaler sharks. From there, we continued exploring the bay to see what else we might encounter. In deeper waters, we were once again fortunate to spot a Bryde’s whale. Although the Cape fur seal colony was quieter than usual, with fewer adults present, we were treated to wonderful sightings of numerous seals and had fantastic views of the newly born Cape fur seal pups. Closer to Dyer Island, we also encountered Cape cormorants and the critically endangered African Penguin.
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What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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 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.
