Board a purpose-built catamaran at Hermanus New Harbour and spend six hours searching Walker Bay for southern right, Bryde’s and occasional humpback whales. A whale specialist interprets sightings while crew manage comfort and safety.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning mist lifts from Walker Bay as a purpose-built catamaran slips from Hermanus New Harbour, crew voices low and binoculars raised. The sea reads like a map—spouts, tail flukes and rolling backs become punctuation marks in a six‑hour search. Onboard a whale specialist interprets behavior while a videographer captures passes, and seals and dolphins often stage their own side shows between sightings.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — requires basic mobility to board and move on deck
Wildlife
History
Hermanus moved from a 19th‑century shore‑based whaling economy to a conservation and ecotourism focus; the town’s whale‑watching culture grew as whales returned to Walker Bay.
Conservation
Operators follow local guidelines to minimize disturbance; staying at designated distances and keeping noise low helps protect breeding and resting behaviors.
Reserve your spot on the Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Binoculars and a 200mm+ lens improve distant identification and let you capture details without approaching whales.
Prevent seasickness
Take motion‑sickness medication beforehand and choose a mid‑boat seat where motion is least pronounced.
Dress in layers and windproof outerwear
Wind and spray make the deck much colder than shore; a windproof jacket and warm mid‑layers keep you comfortable.
Follow the whale specialist's directions
Crew instructions on where to stand and when to move keep both passengers and marine life safe and improve viewing quality.
Binoculars (7x–10x)
Brings distant blows and tail slaps into clear view without disturbing the animals.
Waterproof wind jacket
Blocks spray and wind on open water; winter months are especially cold on deck.
winter
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Bright reflection off the bay increases UV exposure even on cool days.
summer
Camera with telephoto lens
Useful for capturing behavior from legal viewing distances and for sharing sightings.