Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 31 May
Written by May 31 2026
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa – Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 31 May 2026:
We had an outstanding day out on the water today with two successful trips launching from Kleinbaai Harbour under beautiful conditions. Both trips were treated to a special encounter as we came across a group of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins that we know very well. Both trips were extremely fortunate to encounter Southern right whales in deeper waters. As it is still relatively early in the season, these sightings were a wonderful surprise and made the day even more special. Our second trip was further rewarded with a sighting of a Bryde’s whale, adding another incredible species to the day’s marine mammal checklist. As always, we made our way past Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, home to a variety of seabirds and Cape fur seals. A stop was made in the Shallows, where guests were able to enjoy excellent views of the bronze whaler sharks that are found in the area.
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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.
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 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.
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.
