Marine Big 5
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable Marine Big 5 Tour that offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the ocean's most captivating wildlife. Set against the backdrop of Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, this adventure takes you into the heart of marine life, where you can observe Southern right whales (seasonally), Bryde’s and Humpback whales, dolphins, Cape fur seals, African penguins, and, if fortunate, sharks in their natural habitat.
Your tour begins at The Great White House, where you’ll enjoy a warm welcome, muffins, and coffee before attending a detailed briefing on safety and the itinerary. We offer audiovisual safety briefings in multiple languages, so feel free to let us know if you require one. After suiting up with life jackets and waterproof jackets, you will set sail from Kleinbaai Harbour on one of our two custom-designed vessels—the spacious Dream Catcher catamaran or the semi-rigid Whale Whisperer.
Our Marine Big 5 Tour, lasting between 2 and 2.5 hours depending on sightings and weather, brings you through Shark Alley, famous for its dense Cape fur seal population, and continues into prime whale-watching zones. Whether observing the seasonal Southern right whales from June to November or spotting year-round residents like Bryde’s whales and dolphins, every trip offers something special. Although sightings aren’t guaranteed due to the unpredictability of wildlife, our experienced marine biologists will maximize your chances while providing insightful commentary.
- Arrival at The Great White House
- Enjoy complimentary coffee and muffins.
- Attend a safety and itinerary briefing, available in multiple languages upon request.
- Receive essential safety gear, including life jackets and waterproof jackets.
- Departure from Kleinbaai Harbour
- Board one of our custom-designed vessels: Dream Catcher (14m catamaran) or Whale Whisperer (semi-rigid inflatable).
- Set sail into the waters of Gansbaai, heading towards Dyer Island and Geyser Rock.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Navigate through Shark Alley, home to 60,000 Cape fur seals.
- Observe endangered African penguins on Dyer Island and a variety of seabirds such as albatrosses and petrels.
- Cruise through prime whale-watching areas. Depending on the season, encounter Southern right whales, Bryde’s whales, and, potentially, Humpback whales.
- Search for dolphins, including bottlenose, common, and humpback species.
- Visit nearby shark cage diving vessels for a possible sighting of bronze whaler or great white sharks.
- Return to Harbour
- After 2 to 2.5 hours of marine wildlife viewing, head back to Kleinbaai Harbour.
- Tour Conclusion
- Depart with unforgettable memories of your Marine Big 5 experience, knowing you’ve contributed to important conservation efforts.
Note: Tour times may vary based on weather and wildlife activity. Final details will be confirmed a day prior to your trip.
Includes
- Boat Trip
- Tea and coffee with muffins on arrival
- Water on board
- Towels and blankets on board
- Safety and weather jacket
- Soup and bread after the trip from June to December
- Lasagne and salad after the trip from January to May
Excludes
- Extra beverages and snacks.
FAQs
The Marine Big 5 consists of whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and African penguins, which you’ll have the chance to see during the tour.
The Marine Big 5 Tour lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on wildlife sightings and weather conditions.
The tour departs from Kleinbaai Harbour, near Gansbaai, South Africa.
Yes, children of all ages are welcome! Children under 5 years of age are exempt from charges, but you must select the free Infant Seat option during booking for children aged 0-4 years. The Conservation Fee still applies to all children.
Yes, the Conservation Fee is compulsory and supports the Dyer Island Conservation Trust’s vital work in marine research, conservation, and rehabilitation. It applies to all guests (adults, children, and infants).
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Highlights
Highlights
- Marine Big 5 Sightings: Encounter the iconic Marine Big 5—whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and African penguins—in their natural environment. Southern right whale season (June to November) is a particular highlight.
- Shark Alley & Seal Colony: Sail through the world-renowned Shark Alley, home to 60,000 Cape fur seals, and marvel at their playfulness in this natural channel between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock.
- Whale Watching: Experience close encounters with magnificent Southern right whales, Humpback whales during migration, and the resident Bryde’s whales, with expert guides leading the way.
- Dolphin Encounters: Spot playful dolphins, including bottlenose, common, and the endangered humpback species, as they glide alongside your vessel.
- Expert Guides & Marine Biologists: Learn from our knowledgeable team of marine biologists, who provide fascinating insights into the marine ecosystem and wildlife you’ll encounter.
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