Marine Big 5 Tour in Gansbaai excl. Transfer

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTER
  • About 3 hours

Description

All trips are weather and tide dependent and launch times may vary accordingly from those stated. Your launch time will be confirmed the day before.

The boat, Dream Catcher, is the first boat in South Africa to be designed specifically for whale watching. It is extremely comfortable and spacious, with on board toilets, observation deck for photography enthusiasts, PA system and even a hydrophone! Dream Catcher is 14m long and complies with all the safety regulations set out by the marine authorities.

Once you have arrived at The Great White House, you will receive a brief introductory talk about the route, safety, and what to look out for. Passengers are fitted with comfortable life-jackets and waterproof jackets. Safety is of the utmost importance.

Whale watching trip length is between 2 and 2.5 hours, depending on sightings and weather conditions. All cruises depart from Kleinbaai harbour near Gansbaai. Dyer Island is located 8 km from shore and is an access controlled Important Bird Area (IBA) for the conservation of its many resident bird species, including African penguins. Adjacent to Dyer Island is Geyser Rock, home to a 60,000 strong Cape fur seal colony. These seals are present all year round. We will take you into the channel of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock known as the world famous ‘Shark Alley’. We will then take you to the whale hot-spots in the bay. With over a decade of experience, not only do we know where to expect the best whale viewings, but the whales have also learned where to expect us!

We pride ourselves on being both fun and educational. Each trip is led by experienced marine biologists and guides who will share their knowledge with you, keeping emphasis on the welfare and conservation of the animal. Responsible tourism is our main objective so we focus on conservation, education, community upliftment and safety.

COVID-19: WE HAVE YOU COVERED! It is our duty of care to ensure your safety is a priority and respond to any concerns during these ever-changing times.

Itinerary

Please allow enough time for transport from Cape Town (3 hours) and Hermanus (1 hour) when travelling to Gansbaai. Please be aware that there are road works en route and waiting times are included in the above travelling times.

SIGHTINGS: January – May: You might be so fortunate to see the ocean’s Marine Big 5. This is not Southern Right Season, but we have Humpback and Bride’s whales that pass through our water on a regular basis. All morning trips include coffee/tea and muffins on arrival and a light lunch after the trip. Guests doing an afternoon trip can enjoy a light lunch on arrival followed by warm soup and bread after the trip

Good to know

  • COVID-19: WE HAVE YOU COVERED!
  • Tours run throughout the year
  • Due to variable weather conditions the trip may not always be possible and is therefore not guaranteed
  • All trips are weather and tide dependant and launch times may vary accordingly from those stated. Your launch time will be confirmed the day before
  • All clients have to sign an indemnity form on arrival before they can ride
  • Please allow enough time for transport from Cape Town (3 hours) and Hermanus (1 hour)
  • No age restriction

Included

  • Boat trip
  • Tea and coffee with muffins on arrival
  • Bottled water on board
  • Soup and bread on return

Excluded

  • Transfer
  • Extra drinks and snacks
  • Video link of your trip (optional extra R200)
  • Gratuities (optional)

Bring

  • Binoculars
  • Camera

Wear

  • Windbreaker
  • Warm clothing
  • Good shoes

Secure Payments
Safe, simple payment. We never store your credit card details.
Easy Cancellation
Full refund on cancellations up to 24 hours before activity starts.
Friendly Help
We're available 24/7 to make sure your experience is amazing!

Looking for more of the best tours, activities and experiences?

Surfing Hiking Kayaking Diving Cycling Trail running Mountain hike Transfer Safari light Quad biking Day trip Outdoor sports Ziplining Wildlife encounter Motorcycle ride Wine pairing Wine tasting Food tasting Boat trip Half day trip Winelands safari History & Culture Cooking Snorkeling Evening trip Dining experience Safari Scenic drive Nature walk Scuba diving Train ride Horse ride Tubing Adrenaline sports Animal interaction Multi day tour Animal farm Market hopping Wellness Segway trip



December, 2019

A warm welcome and check-in process is given to the guests upon arrival, accompanied by coffee and muffins. Followed by a brief introduction about the area and the company‘s activities a thorough safety video is shown. Equipped with waterproof jackets and life vests, you board the spacious and comfortable boat. The staff is very knowledgable and takes loving care of their guests while cruising. The crew is very eco conscious and respects wildlife by not intimidating their natural habitat. Lucky enough to see a couple of whale appearances, it was a great tour, lead by professionals in every matter.


November, 2019

They are a team of professionals who know what they are doing. The trip ranges to about 2 hours and they give quite a good time to view each of the different animal. The coffee before the trip and the soup after the trip is quite commendable. Would suggest it as a one timer for people interested in seeing the animals super ficially.


September, 2019

Unforgettable day at sea. Definitely one of the highlights in my life. Thanks to hole team at Dyer Island Cruises. Your were very professional and if I could've given you 10 stars for the experience I had, i would. Thanks again.


July, 2019

Having travelled all the way from the UK for a week's holiday in Cape Town, we booked the Marine Big 5 trip. As the weather changed dramatically while we were there, the company were forced to cancel the trip on the day we were supposed to go, however they went out of their way to constantly update us as to when they might be able to head out to sea and finally we got to go out with them. Their friendly service is second to none and every part of the trip was fun and enjoyable. As we booked this trip through the Cape Town City Pass and we had already paid for the trip, we realized that we could use our city passes instead. I was in constant contact with a wonderful lady called Tracey, she was able to use the City Passes as payment and refund us what we had paid minus the return transfer from Cape Town. I don't know many companies who would have this high level of customer service but it's wonderful to see that it still exists. If you want the chance to go out and see some of the most magestic and amazing animals in the world, then you should look no further then Dyer Island Cruises.


April, 2019

Whale watching was in my to-do list and they made it a great experience. The staff/volunteers are great and very considerate, though it did get a little crowded on the boat. We still got a chance to see the whales (up close) and it was such memorable moment!!


Show more reviews


Medium Cancellation Policy

The guest can cancel free of charge until 48 hours before arrival. The guest will be charged the total price if they cancel in the 48 hours days before arrival.

Terms & Conditions

The beauty of Table Mountain, Lions Head and the Atlantic Sea Board coastline from the comfort of our kayaks is unrivalled. Dolphins, seals, penguins, Sunfish and occasionally whales frequent our Cape Town.

View Conditions


WILDLIFE ENCOUNTER
R1,450 per person
108 reviews
R1,450 per person
Book Now