Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 23 October
Written by October 23 2025
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 23 October 2025:
Another day filled with Marine wildlife. Faced with some westerly wind coming in, but less swell, we were ready for what our bay has to offer today. Throughout the day, we got to stop by the local shark cage diving operators within the Shallows, allowing us some glimpses at the incredible Bronze whaler sharks. Our beloved visitors from the far south, the Southern Right whales, were spotted and joined us for the whole day, showing calm manners alongside the vessel. Stopping by Dyer Island, our crew ensured that all our guests spotted the critically endangered African Penguins, which were relaxing on some boulders close to the water, making it easy to catch a glimpse of them. As always, entering Shark Alley, the Cape fur seals on Geyser Rock made sure to greet us every single time, curiously following us up and down the channel. Some of our trips were lucky enough to have also spotted some of the elusive, endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins cruising through our bay once more!
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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.
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.
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.
