Whale-Watching Boat Trips on the Cape’s West Coast

Just off the Cape’s West Coast is a phenomenon that has the world buzzing – supergroups of humpback whales gathering in the waters just off Yzerfontein from December to April. If you’d like to experience the thrill of seeing these creatures up close – up to 200 whales at a time – you can do so: on a one-day or four-day expedition.

Happy hump day

Run by Southern Right Charters (the trusted operator in Hermanus for southern right whales in winter), Whale Expedition SA offers humpback-watching trips that are fully immersive and educational. Whale specialists are on hand to provide interesting information about what you’re seeing; there is a scientific purpose behind these trips, and you’ll be part of that.

The Meganova, a high-end RIB designed for optimal viewing, manoeuvrability and open-ocean performance, is the only vessel licensed for this activity in South Africa. The expert skipper and crew are well-versed in whale approach and behaviour. These are also small-group trips (no more than eight passengers), ensuring comfort and safety.

Add to that an endless ocean horizon, sightings of other marine creatures (dolphins, sunfish, seals) and birds, and fantastic views of the coastline, and this will be a summer boat trip of a lifetime.

Book your expedition

There are two tour options, which can be booked per person or as an exclusive private trip:

• One-Day Whale Expedition Tour
  An introductory briefing is followed by four to five hours out on the ocean, tracking the supergroups, before returning to shore for a picnic-style lunch. Soft drinks and snacks are provided on the boat.

Cost R3 850
Private trip: R34 500 (maximum 10 people)

• Four-Day Whale Expedition

This includes daily trips out to sea for whale-watching, but with three nights’ full-board accommodation, coastal hikes, beach sundowners, fish braais, expert talks, a visit to Dassen Island’s seabird colony, and more included.

Cost R39 800
Private/exclusive trip: rates on request

Good to know Rates exclude transport to and from Yzerfontein.
Dates December 2022 – April 2023
Where to find it Yzerfontein Harbour, Main Road, Yzerfontein (R315, off R27)
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