Hermanus Whale Watching & Penguin Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Scenic drive along the Cape Whale Route
- Spot Southern Right and Humpback whales
- Observe African penguins at Stony Point
- Enjoy breathtaking coastal views
- Learn about marine life from expert guides
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Shared transfers from Cape Town to Hermanus
- Guided whale watching boat trip
- Visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve to see African penguins
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Begin with shared pickup from selected Cape Town hotels and accommodation. Pickup times may vary depending on the number of guests and collection points. Travel from Cape Town towards Hermanus, passing scenic mountain and coastal landscapes along the way. The route may vary depending on road conditions, weather, and the day’s whale watching cruise schedule.
Board a whale watching vessel in Hermanus for a boat-based marine wildlife experience in Walker Bay. Search for Southern Right whales during whale season, as well as possible sightings of Humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, and other marine life. The boat cruise duration depends on sea conditions and the location of marine activity on the day.
After the boat cruise, enjoy free time in Hermanus for lunch at own account or a short walk along the coastal area, depending on the day’s timing and sea conditions. Look out for the whale crier who alerts us where to spot the whales from the shoreline.
Visit the Stony Point Penguin Colony, one of the Western Cape’s best places to see African Penguins. Walk along the boardwalks and enjoy views of the penguins and coastal scenery.
Relax on the shared return transfer to Cape Town. Drop-off will be at your original pickup point or selected Cape Town accommodation.
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm the tour's availability on your preferred date, as whale sightings can vary seasonally.
- Check the weather forecast for the day of the tour to ensure optimal conditions.
- Be aware that the tour involves a boat ride; ensure you're comfortable with this mode of travel.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket, as weather conditions can change.
- Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture distant wildlife.
- Consider motion sickness remedies if you're prone to seasickness.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler reviews
Whale viewing
Excellent crew, and lucky enough to see the whales…couple of mama & calf and a big male too… enjoyed thoroughly and recommend to all…the water was rough, so few os us had sea sickness, but the crew was prepared for it.
At XD looking for the Balrine!
Thank you Paul for welcoming us and sharing all the nooks and crannies , whales , seals , penguins, beautiful beaches , shark sites and the marine rodeo! lol very nice walks and excellent captain! Not to mention the dolphins when we return! Oceana boat club!
Whale watching
Was a great trip, and that was due to our amazing guide Mr Papi(⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️), he made the day great including our unscheduled wine tasting at Benguela Cove. Negative was we didn’t spot our ticket did not include the cost of the Whale Watching trip! (Note to self to check small print)
This is a must for visitors of Cape Town for the whales, ocean waves, and mountains that you will experience
One of the best trips I have taken in Cape Town, this is not 5 star since the operator after I arrived to Hermanus Harber asked me to pay extra money and claimed that the price I payed according to the website is outdated…! So this reduced the fun and excitement I had with the family even though I refused their request. The driver also stopped at a wine farm which was a waste of precious time.
Wonderful. Whale watching
We have just returned from our trip to Hermanus to see the whales All I can say is wow My wife and I never expected to see so many and so up close to the boat . We felt so privileged to witness the Whales with the new calves passing by. The tour guide and driver Alfani was excellent picked us up and drove to a half way stop for breakfast, then on to Hermanus to the boat . The trip lasted a couple of hours and it was worth every penny . I highly recommend this trip at one point the boat was surrounded by whales of each side , totally amazing experience. We went on to a lovely restaurant In Hermanus town afterwards called Bientangs Cave for fish and chips it was lovely and the surroundings are unique. Your table is out on the rocks. After lunch finally we stopped off on the way back at the Benguela cove Vineyard for a cheese & wine pairing it was delicious and the property is stunning. A wonderful day . Thank you