Spend a private day chasing Southern right whales off Hermanus and then swapping sea spray for cellar doors in the Hemel en Aarde Valley and Spier Wine Farm. This full-day road-and-boat tour pairs marine wildlife viewing with guided tastings and scenic drives from Cape Town.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cool ocean wind meets the road as the driver pulls out of Cape Town and the silhouette of the Cape Fold mountains slides past the window. By mid-morning the coastline opens: rocky coves, white surf and the cliff paths of Hermanus where watchers scan the blue for the telltale spray of a whale. On a private full-day tour, the pace is deliberate—shoreline vigils give way to a guided boat outing and an afternoon spent among vineyards in the Hemel en Aarde Valley and at Spier Wine Farm.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to board a small boat, stand for periods on viewpoints and walk short uneven paths.
Wildlife
History
Hermanus evolved from a 19th-century fishing community into a whale-watching hub; the Hemel en Aarde Valley’s vineyards grew from colonial-era farms that adapted to cool maritime climates.
Conservation
Whale protection and responsible viewing guidelines are enforced locally; wineries like Spier publish sustainability practices—visitors should follow codes for marine wildlife and avoid disturbing animals.
Reserve your spot on the Private Full Day Whale Watching in Hermanus with Wine Tasting today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring layers and windproofs
Coastal wind and cooler mornings mean you’ll want a warm outer layer even on sunny days; a windproof jacket keeps you comfortable at cliff viewpoints and on deck.
Prepare for sea conditions
Boat trips last 2–3 hours and can be choppy—take motion-sickness medication ahead of departure if you’re sensitive to rolling seas.
Protect your eyes and skin
Strong ultraviolet light reflects off the ocean and vineyards—wear sunglasses, a broad-brim hat and sunscreen.
Reserve tastings and meals
Wineries and Spier can be busy—book tastings and any lunch options in advance to avoid limited availability on peak days.
Windproof jacket
Shields against the strong cool winds common on the cliffs and boat deck.
fall
Binoculars
Improves long-distance whale and bird sightings from shore and boat.
Non-slip shoes
Provides traction on wet docks, boat decks and uneven cliff paths.
Motion-sickness remedy
Useful if you’re prone to seasickness during the 2–3 hour boat segment.