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Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
789 reviews
Activity provider:
Hermanus Whale watchers
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Certified by GetYourGuide
Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
789 reviews
Likely to sell out

Experience a trip on the ocean surrounding Hermanus, known as the whale watching capital of the world. Spend time looking for these majestic creatures and observing them in their natural habitat.

About this activity

Free cancellation
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Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5
5 out of 5 stars
W
Wolfgang – Germany

Again we had a nice trip into the bay with Hermanuns Whale Watchers :-) We did this also in 2022 and 23 so because we were happy clients we are coming back. Now in 2024 we are late in the whalewatching season - it took the captain some time to find some of the whales being still in the bay. But all efforts have been taken. So better come in August or Oktober to make sure there are lot´s of whales in the bay. We recommend this compnay because their boats have the biggest upper deck compared to other services in Hermanus. The overall impression from all 3 trips is just good. So we´ll be coming back next time.

5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Mitch – United Kingdom

Very good considering it was the end of whale season, we managed to see a mum and calf which the crew were very respectful and make sure not to get too close

Select participants and date

Itinerary

  • Starting location:

    Hermanus New Harbour

    Hermanus

    Guided tour, Boat cruise, Marine life viewing, Safety briefing, Scenic views on the way, Whale watching (2 hours)

    Optional, Extra fee

  • Arrive back at:

    Hermanus New Harbour

Main sites passed

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Experience the humbling sight of whales in their natural environment
  • Encounter a variety of ocean life, whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds
  • See Hermanus and the Western Cape from a different view

Full description

Board your vessel for the day and receive a safety briefing before starting your whale watching adventure. In good weather conditions travelers will be allowed on the top-deck before departure for great unobstructed views, otherwise they will be allowed on top only after the whales have been found. Travel out onto the ocean taking in great views as you go. 

Regarding the question about the physical tickets is that we give the physical ticket on arrival on the day to make sure that you are here.

Once the whales have been spotted, the vessel is allowed to move closer to the whales where it stops and the engines disengage is to prevent the whales from being injured by the propellers. Experience for yourself the astonishment of being so close to these majestic creatures.  As the whales are curious creatures, they might move up to the vessel for some 'people watching'.

See a variety of other marine wildlife such as dolphins and seals as you coast along the water. As you travel through the day and spot these beautiful creatures learn more about them from your crew, before they take you back to land after a once in a lifetime experience. 

Includes

  • 1.5 to 2-hour whale watching boat trip
  • Tour guide on board
  • Water on the boat
  • Coffee on arrival
  • Entrance fee to the Harbour ( R5 payable upon entry)

Meeting point

Tickets provided on arrival, 30 minutes before the trip start time. Please make your way to the Hermanus New Harbour. Once there, go to the orange building on the right-hand side, directly after entering the harbor.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Windbreaker
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Jacket
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Know before you go

  • Whale watching is suitable for all ages
  • Please wear warm clothing and flat shoes
  • Trips are weather permitting
Likely to sell out

From $86 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5
4.5 out of 5 stars

based on 789 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.6/5
  • Value for money
    4.2/5

Customer photos

+53
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5
5 out of 5 stars
W
Wolfgang – GermanyNovember 27, 2024 – Verified booking
Again we had a nice trip into the bay with Hermanuns Whale Watchers :-) We did this also in 2022 and 23 so because we were happy clients we are coming back. Now in 2024 we are late in the whalewatching season - it took the captain some time to find some of the whales being still in the bay. But all efforts have been taken. So better come in August or Oktober to make sure there are lot´s of whales in the bay. We recommend this compnay because their boats have the biggest upper deck compared to other services in Hermanus. The overall impression from all 3 trips is just good. So we´ll be coming back next time.
5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Mitch – United KingdomNovember 28, 2024 – Verified booking
Very good considering it was the end of whale season, we managed to see a mum and calf which the crew were very respectful and make sure not to get too close
5
5 out of 5 stars
A
Ayoub – EgyptDecember 1, 2024 – Verified booking
We were able to see the whales after all, and this is indeed a worthwhile experience.

Product ID: 166118

Activity provider:
Hermanus Whale watchers

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