Spend a day driving along Overberg ridges and False Bay shores to Hermanus, then board a two-hour boat voyage to watch southern right whales between June and November. This private, all-ages tour combines coastal views, guided whale approaches, and local lunch options.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Salt spray and the low groan of an engine set the pace as you leave False Bay’s shore for open water. In the hour before the boat eases into Hermanus’s feeding grounds, vineyards and serrated ridgelines recede; the sea becomes a wide, restless stage where blows appear like punctuation marks.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours (full-day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires boarding a low-freeboard vessel and short periods of standing on deck.
Wildlife
History
Hermanus evolved from a fishing and limited whaling economy into a whale-watching destination after protections for southern right whales in the 20th century shifted local livelihoods toward tourism and conservation.
Conservation
Operators follow national and local guidelines on approach distances and speed limits to reduce stress on whales; support companies that report sightings and participate in monitoring programs.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching Boat Trip in Hermanus (between June to November) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time your trip for peak months
Book between July and October for the highest probability of seeing southern right whales near Hermanus.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Rough sea conditions are possible—bring antiemetics or acupressure bands even if you rarely get seasick.
Layer up and bring wind protection
The ocean breeze can be sharp; a windproof shell and warm mid-layer keep you comfortable on deck.
Use binoculars and a fast camera
Binoculars extend your field of view and a camera with quick autofocus helps capture breaches and tail-lobs.
Windproof shell or waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and keeps you warm on the exposed deck.
winter
Binoculars
Extend your spotting range for distant blows and behavior.
Sea-sickness medication or bands
Reduces discomfort if conditions are choppy.
Telephoto-capable camera or fast smartphone
Captures breaches and close whale interactions with better detail.