Summerwood Guest House - Whale watching

Activity Description

The oceans off the southern tip of Africa offer some of the most exciting whale watching in the world with at least 37 different species of dolphins and whales calling these waters home!

The whale watching trip gives you an opportunity to marvel at the size and grace of these incredible animals and be thrilled by encounters with a host of other marine life including African penguins, Cape Fur seals, Cormorants, Bank Cormorants and possibly even sharks.
Around June each year the Southern Right whales tend to arrive, and usually depart late November. Between May and December we see the Humpback whales migrate through the region, and we are fortunate to have the Brydes whales offshore all year round.

The area, however, is famous for the frequent encounters with Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, as well as a number of species of coastal dolphins. You also have the chance to see Cape Fur seals, African penguins, oyster catchers and a variation of marine life.

Arrangements

Duration2 hours 30 minutes

WhenThe service is available 1 June to 16 November each year.

WhereOld Harbour in Hermanus

WeatherThis service is weather dependent. We receive our final weather report at 14h00 each day and the decision to put to sea is made by the skipper based on this weather update. We will, therefore, confirm or cancel the afternoon prior to your trip.

What to WearWarm clothing in winter: June to September – Closed shoes, long pants, waterproof jacket and cap / beanie. In summer: October – April – a wind-breaker, cap / hat.

Things to BringDress in layers, Warm weather jacket, closed shoes, beanie, scarf, hat/cap, polarized sunglasses, sun block & camera.

Guests or SpectatorsSpectators can wait for the guests at our offices until the boat returns.

Requirements

Minimum Age0 years

Minimum Height0.0 m

Maximum Height0.0 m

Fitness LevelNo Fitness Requirement

QualificationsNot Applicable

Maximum Weight0.0 kg

CertificationNone Required

Experience LevelNo Experience Requirement

Inclusions and Exclusions

InclusionsIncluded in the price is refreshments on the boat, safety equipment like life jackets, boat trip and a qualified skipper

ExclusionsItems of a personal nature.

Notes

How to avoid sea-sickness
Avoid any alcohol the evening before your trip, or at least drink with moderation. Alcohol and hangovers are a near guarantee for sea-sickness.
Take an anti-motion sickness tablet the evening before your trip, and another one an hour before boarding the boat (these are available at any pharmacy without prescription – we recommend Dramamine or Stugeron).
During the trip, stay outside of the cabin, remain in the fresh breeze, and avoid the toilet. Keep your eyes on the horizon from the start, and try not to look through your camera’s view finders for too long (most compact digital cameras offer a screen, use this option). If the sea is choppy, avoid going on the top deck where the boat’s movements will be accentuated. Wear comfortable and loose clothing items, or just make yourselves as comfortable as possible by opening buttons or belts.
This service is weather dependent. We receive our final weather report at 14h00 each day and the decision to put to sea is made by the skipper based on this weather update. We will, therefore, confirm or cancel the afternoon prior to your trip.