The famous Hermanus whale crier has sounded his kelp horn and the South African whale watching season is now in full swing. Aerial surveys have counted more than 260 whales and calves so far this year.
The first southern right whales started arriving in June in the coastal waters of Hermanus in the Western Cape in South Africa and delighted early visitors who each year flock to this part of the world to watch the annual migration of these giants of the ocean.
One of the most unusual sightings of this year’s whale watching so far has been the sight of two rare white southern right whales near Hartenbos on South Africa’s Garden Route.
Captured by outdoor photographer Michael de Nobrega, they’ve aptly been named Snowflake and Snow White as less than 4% of newborn calves see the light of day with this colouration.
Whale watching season in Hermanus typically runs between June and November, with the peak months September and October. During this time, the southern right whales migrate to the sheltered bays along the coast to calve and nurse their young, offering spectacular viewing opportunities.
Hermanus is renowned as one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations, sometimes even referred to as the whale watching capital of the world. Here visitors can often spot these majestic creatures close to shore, sometimes even from the town’s famous cliff paths.
The town is however not the only spot along the long South African coastline where one can marvel at the antics of southern right whales as well as a whole host of other marine creatures.
The waters around the Cape Peninsula are known for sightings of southern right whales, humpback whales and even the occasional orca. Tours depart from the V&A Waterfront and False Bay, offering both boat-based and land-based viewing opportunities. Additionally, the nearby town of Kalk Bay offers more intimate boat tours that explore the rich marine ecosystem of False Bay.
Gansbaai is another hotspot for whale watching, particularly known for its proximity to Dyer Island. Gansbaai is also famous for its shark cage diving tours, providing a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s marine life in a variety of ways.
Knysna, situated along the Garden Route National Park, is also a noteworthy whale watching destination. The Knysna Heads and surrounding areas offer opportunities to spot southern right whales, humpback whales and even orcas that made their way all the way from Cape Town.
