Hermanus Whale Watching & Stony Point penguins
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
The tour is special because Hermanus is one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations in the world. Here’s what makes this tour exciting:
-Unlike most whale-watching destinations that require a boat, Hermanus provides incredible shore-based sightings from its cliffs. The whales often come within meters of the coastline, making this a rare and special experience.
-Hermanus has the world’s only Whale Crier, who walks around town blowing a kelp horn to signal where whales are spotted. This tradition adds a unique cultural and historical charm to the experience.
-For those who want an even closer look, boat tours take visitors into Walker Bay, where whales breach, tail-slap, and interact with their calves in breathtaking displays. Seeing a whale up close in its natural habitat is an unforgettable moment.
-Beyond whales, visitors might also see:
Humpback whales and Bryde’s whales
Dolphins playing alongside boats
Cape fur seals basking on rocks
Great white sharks in nearby Gans Baai
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Experience an unforgettable day along South Africa’s spectacular Whale Coast. Travel from Cape Town to Hermanus, one of the world’s best whale-watching destinations, where you’ll enjoy a boat cruise to see majestic Southern Right whales (seasonal), with chances to spot humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, dolphins, and seals. After the cruise, enjoy free time to explore the charming seaside town of Hermanus before continuing to the Stony Point Penguin Colony in Betty’s Bay. Walk along the boardwalks and watch hundreds of endangered African penguins in their natural habitat, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery. With scenic ocean views, mountain landscapes, and incredible wildlife encounters, this full-day tour is the perfect way to experience the best of the Cape Whale Coast
Options
Hermanus Whale Watching & Stony Point penguins
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Bottles of water on the board
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Air-conditioned vehicle
whale watching boat trip
Live tour guide
Entry into the boat at Hermanus
Gratuity optional
Lunch
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very good guide, show some extra
Katharina J,May 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Was very good. We get lots of information and have see somthing special extra! We have seen some whales but to fix it with the camera they were to fast.
Perfect day tour!
C7634NPjessicat,Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Joel was an incredible your guide! He did a pick up and drop off for our shark diving excursion. He was knowledgeable throughout the entire ride! Will definitely be coming back in 2027!!!
Brilliant
Curious426411,Oct 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The whale watching was brilliant. Mating groups, multiple mother and calf pairs and even a breaching whale. Paul was a great guide for the day - more than just whale watching, he gave a great guided tour of the area (which included a wine tasting stop). Thoroughly recommended,
Excellent tour and great nature experience
RoadMan4444,Sep 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Joel is an excellent guide and host. He showed us the greater Cape Town area and then Hermanus and the coast. The whales and penguins were amazing.
Walewatching
D5667VFirisd,Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had taken a private tour to Hermanus for whalewatching with Joel. The tour exceeded our expectations. Joel has responded very well to our wishes and we have felt in good hands with him. Thank you very much! 😃
Super great
paupols,Jul 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had the privilege of witnessing the majestic southern right whales in Hermanus, and it was truly a once in a lifetime experience!these gentle giants glided effortless through the waters. The scenic coastline and tranquil atmosphere added to the magic of the moment
The whale watching in Hermanus
H2240BCgracet,Jun 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00"What an incredible experience, A truly magical day out on the water seeing the Whale from the boat with good memories that last lifetime. These animals are awe-inspiring, and they are magnificent creatures up close in their naturel habitat. The tour guide helped everyone to have a great to view. I wish to come back every year.
Whale watching private guided tour to whoever feel great about it
X5084ZOnoelm,May 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Good trip over all.i saw some whales,but the water was a bit choppy Brute whales 2 southern right whales I am recommending this tour to
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