This is an extraordinary trip that provides tourists the unique chance to observe the land-based calf of Southern Right Whales from the craggy cliffs of Hermanus. This offers a full day of visual exploration and a multitude of experiences to appreciate the splendor of Hermanus and the magnificence of these gigantic mammals up close.
- Cape Town Central - Departing from Cape Town and heading towards the seaside, we embark on a journey along the whale-watching coastline, passing by some of South Africa’s most renowned townships. The first, Langa, holds the distinction of being the oldest township in the country, established in 1823. In contrast to other informal settlements, Langa has a significant history.
Khayelitsha, which translates to ‘Our New Home’ in Xhosa, is located about 20 minutes to the east of Langa. Spanning an area of 10 square miles and home to over half a million residents, it is the largest and most densely populated township in Cape Town, and the second largest in the country after Soweto in Johannesburg.
Macassar takes its name from Yusuf- Al Makasari, who was once imprisoned on Robben Island and later exiled to Macassar. Our route takes us past Somerset West, Strand, and finally halts at Goldon’s Bay, famed for its dual harbors. We’ll pause for a brief 15-minute stop in the coastal enclave of Goldon’s Bay.
- Pringle Bay - Our drive continues past Pringle Bay, a locale with a rich history that reaches back to the Stone Age. It was named after the Royal Navy’s commanding officer, Thomas Pringle. The journey proceeds past Fisherhaven and Elgin, the latter being recognized as the premier apple-producing region, and on to Betty’s Bay, which lies on the southwestern coast. Betty’s Bay owes its name to Betty Youlden, the daughter of the area’s initial developer, Arthur Youlden. The local economy thrives on tourism, bolstered by attractions such as the Penguin Colony and the Botanical Garden. The drive to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden should take approximately one hour.
- Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens - We will make a stop at the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden Nature Reserve, which was originally acquired by three businessmen and later divided into three parcels of land. Visitors can explore 10 hectares of fynbos, observe various bird species, and possibly catch sight of baboons during a brief 30-minute interlude.
- Hermanus - The journey continues to the new harbour in Hermanus. Upon reaching Hermanus’s new Harbour, guests have the option to embark on a two-hour boat excursion for an up-close experience with marine life (at their own expense). Before setting sail, a 15 to 20-minute safety briefing will be provided, along with detailed information about the behavior of southern right whales and humpback whales, and the reasons they migrate to our shores from June to mid-December. The boat has a capacity for 80 passengers. Please note that the whale-watching boat trip is contingent on weather conditions and lasts for about two hours. It’s important to remember that tickets for the Whale Watching boat trip are not included, or guests may choose to observe whales from the shore. Refer to the exclusions for more details. The travel time from Harold Porter to Hermanus new harbour, including the boat trip, is estimated to be around 3 hours.
- Hermanus - Visitors will proceed to the town of Hermanus, famously known as the whale-watching capital, where the majestic southern right whales can be observed. From the coastal cliffs, one can witness these colossal creatures as they play, breed, and nurse their young in the temperate waters below.
Guests will have the opportunity to dine at a local restaurant where whale sightings are possible during the meal, and they can enjoy some shopping before the return trip to Cape Town.
- Bottle of water on board
- Hotel pick up and drop-off
- Air-conditioned
- Fuel surcharge
- Private guide on board
- ▪︎Lunch on your own account.
- ▪︎Tips/Gratuities (Optional)
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.