Hermanus Whale-Watching Boat Cruise

Every year, between June and December, the southern right whales gather in the waters of Walker Bay, their preferred breeding ground. Their arrival transforms the quiet coastal town of Hermanus into a hubbub of activity, as people come from far and wide to witness these gentle giants in action.

Seeing a southern right up close has been described as a spiritual experience by those who’ve had the privilege, and this cruise offers the opportunity to do exactly that.

An overview of the whale-watching tour

• Tours depart three times a day from the New Harbour in Hermanus.
• Each tour ranges in duration from one-and-a-half to three hours.
• Tours take place on a purpose-built catamaran that has comfortable indoor seating and observation points designed to provide spectacular views of whales.
• A professional crew is dedicated to ensuring passenger safety and comfort.
• Light refreshments are served.
• A Hermanus whale specialist is on-hand to answers questions and provide interesting insights into whale behaviour.
• An optional souvenir movie of the tour is available for purchase.
• The tour operator’s permit allows the boat to get as close as 50 meters; at which point it’s up to the whales to decide whether to get closer. As it turns out, many of them do. Our fellow mammals are just as curious about us as we are about them.
• Aside from being a fun day out at sea, whale-watching is a potentially profound experience that provides but a glimpse into the wonders of the ocean world.
• The tour is suitable for all ages, but children under 12 must wear a life jacket at all times.
• Arrival time is 30 minutes prior to departure.

When
Daily at 9am, 12pm, 3pm
Duration 1.5 to 3 hours

Location
Trips depart from New Harbour in Hermanus

Price
R900 – adults
R800 – students and seniors
R450 – children 5 – 14 years
Free – children 0 – 5 years

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Good to know

• During peak breeding season (September and October), the number of whales in the bay can reach as many as 100 or more. It is rare not to encounter one during a whale-watching tour, but on the off-chance you don’t, you will be offered offer either a 50 per cent refund, or the opportunity to join the next tour for free.
• Whale-watching season occurs during the winter months, so there is a chance of trips being cancelled due to poor weather. The crew will decide on the day if the weather is unsafe for travel, and will contact you to let you know. You’ll then have the option of a full refund, or reshuffling your booking.
• It’s advised to book your whale-watching tour for your first available day in Hermanus, so you have extra days set aside in case the tour gets postponed due to poor weather.