Whale Watching Hermanus – South Africa's Whale Watching Specialists. From the world-famous Southern Right Whales of Walker Bay to the spectacular marine life along South Africa's coastline, we help visitors discover unforgettable whale watching experiences in some of the country's most iconic destinations.
Whales & Marine Life in Hermanus
Southern Right Whale
The stars of Walker Bay — easily identified by their callosities. They come close to shore between June and December to calve and mate.
Humpback Whale
Migratory humpbacks pass through during winter and spring, often breaching and fluking on their way north and south.
Bryde's Whale
A resident species, present year-round in deeper sections of Walker Bay and often spotted feeding.
Common & Bottlenose Dolphins
Pods of dolphins regularly bow-ride the boat — a highlight on almost every trip.
Best Whale Watching Season in Hermanus
Season
June – early December
Peak
September – November
Good to Know
Best calm-water sightings are typically in the mornings. We run multiple departures daily during the season.
Tour Options from Hermanus
Boat-Based Whale Watching
Approx. 2-hour licensed boat trip from Hermanus New Harbour. Permitted to approach whales to within 50 m (and closer if they approach us).
Hermanus Whale Watching Walking Tour
Guided walk along the Hermanus cliff path — one of the world's best land-based whale watching coastlines.
Hermanus Whale Watching Flights
Scenic flight over Walker Bay and the Hermanus coastline — a bird's-eye view of whales, dolphins and seals. Pricing and availability available on request.
Hermanus Day Tour from Cape Town
Full-day private transfer + boat-based whale watching combo from Cape Town.
Hermanus Whale Watching FAQ
Everything you need to know before booking your Hermanus whale watching trip.
Explore Other Whale Watching Destinations
We book whale watching tours all along the South African coast.
Booking Enquiry
Enquire about Hermanus whale watching
Send your preferred date and we'll confirm tour options and availability — usually within a few hours via WhatsApp or email.
Prefer to chat? WhatsApp +44 7478 051277 or call +27 28 050 2273.