Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

Experience an up, close and personal encounter with the ‘gentle giants’ of the ocean that promises to be an ‘experience to be treasured.’ From June to December you will mostly encounter the Southern Right whales, seals, penguins and marine birds, and often see dolphins, Bryde’s and Humpback whales on this informative and educational tour.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All ages welcome, children U/12 must wear a life jacket at al times which will be provided

Please bring along:

Weather appropriate clothing and a windbreaker

Sensible footwear, sunscreen; cap if necessary

Sea sick tablets should be taken in advance as per packet instructions (if necessary)

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Support Crew to ensure passenger comfort

Whale specialist guide on board

Complimentary Light refreshments

Transportation to/from attractions

USB Movie of tour (available to purchase at R390)

What To Expect

Boat Based Whale Watching The whale watching trip begins with an on-land briefing led by our whale specialist guide before heading down the jetty to our catamaran. We then set off from the Hermanus New Harbour in search of the ‘gentle giants.’ The purpose-built catamaran provides superior viewing and comfort and during the tour and the friendly, knowledgeable crew add that personal touch allowing for an all-round great experience. Our Whale Specialist guide will interpret the marine life encountered en route and provide insight into the behaviour of the whales while you are watching them in action. Our videographer will ensure that the best footage is captured.

Options

06:30am

Whale Watching Tour

The tour begins with an on-land briefing presented by our whale specialist before heading to our boat. We then set off in search of the 'gentle giants' for an up close and personal experience.

Reviews

4.69

235 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

193

Southern Right Whales
mirandak512,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A fantastic tour company, who clearly value experiences where the whales encounter the boat (not the other way around). We had a truly wonderful trip, observing a mother and young calf. The journey time to see whales is short and only slightly choppy. Crew are knowledgeable about the whales and on hand to answer questions and provide refreshment
Spectacular: whales with sunrise in the background
cawap68,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We left at 6:30 in the morning and made full: whales + sunrise, a wonder, and the sea calm. The boat is very good, from what we saw it is the best in the area. Since it is not very large it moves a little, but it is necessary to be agile to maneuver. Warm up because it's cold, and the first shift is the good one. The speaker is very funny. We saw enough whales, and one with his son. They offer you tea, coffee and cookies at your discretion before and after the activity. It's really worth it.
Professional, comfortable with friendly staff
David L,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Really great trip, well organised with friendly staff. Buy the seasickness tablets in the Click chemist in town (R20). Take one the night before and the morning of your trip and you will have no issues. They won’t interfere with any of your eating and drinking plans
To do!
martine-run,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Well organized excursion, contract fulfilled: we were able to observe whales and dolphins.Cozy boat for this excursion.
Memorable experience
Elenams2013,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I booked the activity for 9 in the morning departing from Hermanus, a taxi picked me up punctually to get to the harbour. For people that are afraid of the movement , the boat is really stable . These people know what they do, we saw 2 groups of Southern right whales and had more than enough time to see them playing around the boat and make lots of videos and photos . In the way back, we saw hundreds of dolphins and some seals . It was really amazing, All well organized. We departed at 9, it takes 2 hours as announced. Super recommended
We saw whales :D and the...
Vlad C,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We saw whales :D and the guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. 100% reccomended! Only thing I would say, if you get seasick make sure you get pills before as the waters can get choppy!
Great experience!
Q7846FMmikem,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Top organized. From front to back 5 stars! Would do it again anytime. Be sure to take the video from the tour.
Can’t missed tour in hermanus
Lena L,
Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had chances to a lot of whales in close distance. Everyone in the boat was so exited and happy. Crew members did a excellent job for spotting whale and explanations.
🐳🐳🐳
Hugo C,
Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
During the boat tour, I had the opportunity to spot whales for 3 or 4 times, that is, the tour was a success. I just didn't give 5 stars because of the violent going and coming from the boat, which left some passengers sick or even vomiting
Whale Excursion
MichaelCheret,
Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00
We experienced it as a positive, just a pity that the whales did not feel like it that day. They were present but kept their distance and came up very little with their tail fin and snout. On the boat many people were seasick due to the high waves