Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 23 April
Written by April 23 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 23 April 2024:
The great conditions continue and we were heading into a calm bay this morning. We started the journey along the coast to Danger Point and then into the deeper waters. Out there we started with several big rafts of the endangered African Penguin, followed by a sunfish, a great pod of Common dolphins and a Bryde’s whale! What else could we possibly ask for? We got to spend some time with all of the different species out there before we decided to let them all be. Heading further into the bay we made it into the Shallows where the local Shark cage diving companies operate. Even though the activity has been rather slow some of our guests were lucky enough to get a glimpse of a Bronze whaler shark. Eventually, we reached Dyer Island, where we saw some other seabirds and terns before heading around to the Cape fur seal colony. The small fur seals were quite active once again practising their swimming abilities. We continued from there back to Kleinbaai harbour.
Tripadvisor – https://bit.ly/2YZ0jDR
Google – https://g.page/r/Caej8uYZYnR8EBE/review
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WhaleWatchSA
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
