Whales and dolphins! Marine Big 5 Daily Blog
Written by August 6 2021
Out at Danger Point we quickly saw some spouts and had some beautiful humpback whales traveling alongside our vessel. After having watched these animals coming up a few times we continued towards Dyer Island for some penguins and also went to go and see the Cape Fur seal colony on Geyser Rock. Back in shallower water along the coast line we spotted a southern right cow-calf pair, the calf was very small and possibly just a few days old. And how lucky, further along the coast we encountered two humpback dolphins as well.
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.
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.
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.
