SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa's standouts.
A shortlist of the 6 dolphin watching most worth booking in South Africa, with what each one is like on the day, who runs it, and what it costs.
Hermanus whale and dolphin cruise from the Whale Shack catamaran. Specialist guide, light refreshments, and up-close sightings near Walker Bay.
“We were at the end of the whale season but we saw hundreds of dolphins and at the end of the tour a whale, the tour a half hour longer so we could see the whale. Guide knows what he’s talking about.”
Whale, dolphin, and penguin cruise from Port Elizabeth to Algoa Bay and St. Croix Island, with conservation-focused guides.
“All four crew on boat very helpful and knowledgeable. On time, clean boat, saw penguins on the island and dolphins and a whale close up.”
Kayak Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard for 2 hours to look for dolphins, penguins, seals and whales, plus Table Mountain views and garden drinks.
“What a phenomenal experience. The guides were far more upbeat and groovy than I have ever experienced around the world! They all had boundless knowledge of the ocean that they call home and too were comprehensive in knowing the inns and outs of Cape Town. Great post tour recommendations on where to hang and lap…”
Durban 2-hour Indian Ocean whale and dolphin boat tour with a guide, humpback sightings June–Nov, and open-ocean sailing from Wilson’s Wharf.
“Worth the watch as there were many dolphins and a performing whale at the end so you need not wait for the whale to come up!”
90-minute marine boat tour from Plettenberg Bay to Robberg Peninsula for dolphins, seals, sharks, and dramatic coastline scenery, weather permitting.
“It was enjoyable and lots of fun. The guides were informative. However we didn’t think it was suitable for tiny babies and small children. It is not a Disneyland ride!”
