Whale, seals and penguins! Marine Big 5 Daily Blog
Written by January 22 2021
The weather was perfect for a day out at sea, the sun was shining and only a light breeze was blowing. After launching from Kleinbaai harbour we set sail towards Dyer Island, but made a stop halfway to have a look at some African penguins out at sea. Arrived at Dyer Island we saw more of these endangered birds as well as Giant petrels sitting in between kelp. Just around the corner I Shark Alley we saw thousands of Cape Fur seals, most gathered on Geyser Rock. The seal pups are also slowly growing up but stand out nicely with their black fur and obviously small size. Behind the island we have been lucky to encounter a Bryde’s whale, which was traveling relaxed alongside our boat.
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.
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.
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.
