Marine Big 5 Daily Blog
Written by November 12 2020
The early launch was well worth it today! Just passed Uilenkraal, one of the favourite hangout spots for the Humpback dolphins, we spotted a small group of three dolphins travelling together. Although they are known to be shy and elusive, they came close to our vessel so we could get some good looks at South Africa’s most endangered cetacean. Further down the coastline in Pearly Beach we found two pairs of Southern Right whales very close to the coast. One calf in particular had lots of fun with the slight swell come through, pushing its head out the water as the waves were passing. It’s so great to have these gentle giants still along our coast. On the way back home, we managed to see an African penguin foraging in the waters around Pearly Beach as well as made a stop at the Cape Fur seal colony.
What species did we see today?
Humpback Whale Humpback Whale
One of the best-known whale species, they are renowned for their acrobatic behaviour and complex melodious song as well as extremely long flippers and are a special favourite of Dyer Island Cruises guests and crew alike.
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.
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.
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.
