Daily Trip 05 August 2017
Today, we had an unexpected surprise when....
Written by Jax, August 5 2017
Guide Summary and Photographs
Today, we had an unexpected surprise when we got to launch out of Gansbaai harbour due to a bit of a swell pushing through in Kleinbaai. This is something that we as crew enjoy very much as it allows us to cover a little more area. This particular stretch of coast is stunningly scenic, with rugged cliffs and greenery running all the way through to Danger Point Lighthouse.
Danger Point Lighthouse was built in 1895 after the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead. Although this is the most famous shipwreck in the area there are rumoured to be around 7 ships who have met their end on the rocks and reefs in the area.
After making our way around the point at around lunch time, Kira quickly spotted our first pod of Southern Right Whales for the day. The animals were curious enough to approach and it wasn’t long until we had all 3 around the boat. Southern Right Whales tend to spend a lot of time at the surface of the water, usually coming up every 4 to 8 minutes.
We watched this group for some time whilst we had flocks of Cape Cormorants fly past us, presumably in search of their Saturday afternoon snack. We also had a Shy Albatross, some sooty shearwaters and a few Cape Gannets. Shortly after this, Kira spotted some more whales close to Birkenhead Rock so we moved into this area to spend some time with these magnificent giants.
This encounter also consisted of 3 Southern Right Whales who seem to be moving a little closer to the harbour which is great news for us. When the whales went down, we decided to head towards Dyer Island. On the way, we spotted quite a large raft of African Penguins before getting back on course again.
Next up, we spent some quality time with our playful Cape Fur Seals before returning to the harbour.
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