Marine Big 5 Safari with transport from Hermanus
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Marine Big 5 Safari with transport from Hermanus

Active
(75 reviews)
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We operate from Gansbaai around the world-famous Dyer Island where you might be so fortunate to see the Marine Big 5 – the Southern Right Whale/Humpback/Bryde’s Whales, various shark species, the Cape fur seal (around 60 000 on Geyser Rock), the endangered African Penguin and various visiting dolphin species. The area is also home to a wide variety of seabirds.

Available options

09:00am Departure

Pickup included

2:00pm Departure 2025

Pickup included

11:30am Departure 2025

Pickup included

11:30am Departure

Pickup included

2:00pm Departure

Pickup included

09:00am Departure 2025

Pickup included

07:00am Departure 2025

Pickup included

07:00am Departure

Pickup included

What's included

Warm soup and bread after the trip
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Bottled water
Coffee/tea and muffins on arrival
Inflatable life-jackets and wet weather gear
Free visit to our African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS)

Detailed itinerary

1

Dyer Island Cruises operates around the world-famous Dyer Island where you might be fortunate enough to see the Marine Big 5: Southern Right / Humpback / Bryde’s Whales, Great White Sharks around the renowned Shark Alley, Cape Fur Seals, the endangered African Penguin and various visiting dolphin species. The are is also home to a variety of seabirds. Our Southern Right Whale Season is normally from June – December, but for the rest of the year we occasionally see Humpback and Bryde’s whales in the area. We have an on-board Marine biologist and experienced crew who promise and educational, life-changing experience.
Upon arrival at the Great White House, coffee/tea and muffins are served while listening to a dedicated safety and conservation briefing. We provide safety jackets and wet weather gear. After a short walk to the harbour we board custom deigned vessel, Dream Catcher and the adventure will commence. After the trip on sea, guests return to the Great White House for soup and bread followed by a debriefing. Quality trip footage can be bought, and you will receive a downloadable link.
A free visit to the African Penguin and Seabirds Sanctuary is also included. Dyer Island Cruises supports The Dyer Island Conservation Trust under which we have a number of conservation and community projects. Please be assured that Your choice makes a difference by booking with us and help to fulfil our dream to Discover & Protect.
If you make use of our dedicated shuttle, we will stop in the beautiful Hermanus. Here you can explore the walkway and curio craft market or have a snack to eat, before heading back to Cape Town.

2

Dyer Island Cruises operates around the world-famous Dyer Island where you might be fortunate enough to see the Marine Big 5: Southern Right / Humpback / Bryde’s Whales, Great White Sharks around the renowned Shark Alley, Cape Fur Seals, the endangered African Penguin and various visiting dolphin species. The are is also home to a variety of seabirds. Our Southern Right Whale Season is normally from June – December, but for the rest of the year we occasionally see Humpback and Bryde’s whales in the area. We have an on-board Marine biologist and experienced crew who promise and educational, life-changing experience.
Upon arrival at the Great White House, coffee/tea and muffins are served while listening to a dedicated safety and conservation briefing. We provide safety jackets and wet weather gear. After a short walk to the harbour we board custom deigned vessel, Dream Catcher and the adventure will commence. After the trip on sea, guests return to the Great White House for soup and bread followed by a debriefing. Quality trip footage can be bought, and you will receive a downloadable link.
A free visit to the African Penguin and Seabirds Sanctuary is also included. Dyer Island Cruises supports The Dyer Island Conservation Trust under which we have a number of conservation and community projects. Please be assured that Your choice makes a difference by booking with us and help to fulfil our dream to Discover & Protect.
If you make use of our dedicated shuttle, we will stop in the beautiful Hermanus. Here you can explore the walkway and curio craft market or have a snack to eat, before heading back to Cape Town.

3
Stop 3

The African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) serves as a custom-designed, world class, marine bird rehabilitation centre in the Overstrand area. We provide temporary rehabilitative care to diseased, displaced, injured, oiled and abandoned marine birds with special focus on the endangered African Penguin. Marine bird rescue, rehabilitation and release form part of the conservation management plan to conserve and maintain African Penguin populations, and other seabirds. Through continued research, education and awareness programmes, we aim to mitigate human impacts on our colonies

What's not included

Trip footage available for purchase after the trip

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
13 reviews
5★
10
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
62 reviews
5★
54
4★
5
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Wheelchair accessible, we can accommodate 2 wheelchairs per trip. Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required.
Excellent crew - one crew member to look after 6-7 guests.
Please note that the Conservation Fee is compulsory.
This tour is 2 to 2.5 hours, excluding your travel and briefing time.

Important notes

• You MUST contact the local supplier on +2782 801 8014 at least 48 hours before departure to reconfirm. 

About Hermanus

Hermanus is a coastal town in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Known as the whale-watching capital of the world, it offers stunning ocean views, scenic cliff paths, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is also famous for its wine estates, fine dining, and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Hermanus Whale Festival

An annual festival celebrating the arrival of the southern right whales with music, art, and food.

Cultural 3 days Free to attend

Fernkloof Nature Reserve

A nature reserve with over 1,600 plant species and scenic hiking trails.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Grotto Beach

A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai

A traditional South African barbecue featuring grilled meats and vegetables.

Dinner Contains meat

Cape Malay Curry

A spicy curry made with meat or vegetables, influenced by the Cape Malay culture.

Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking Surfing Kayaking Beach lounging Spa treatments Wine tasting Art galleries Museums

Best Time to Visit

June to November

This is the best time to visit Hermanus for whale watching, as southern right whales migrate to the coast to breed and calve. The weather is mild and pleasant.

12°C to 22°C 54°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Afrikaans
  • Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hermanus is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
  • • Be cautious of scams and touts

Getting there

By air
  • Cape Town International Airport • 120 km
By train

Hermanus Station

By bus

Hermanus Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hermanus Central Onrus

Day trips

Cape Town
120 km • Full day

A vibrant city with iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

Bettys Bay
30 km • Half day

A coastal town known for its penguin colony and scenic beaches.

Festivals

Hermanus Whale Festival • September Hermanus FynArts Festival • April

Pro tips

  • Visit during the whale-watching season (June to November) for the best experience.
  • Book accommodations early, especially during peak season.
  • Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and local charm.
  • Try local wines and seafood for an authentic taste of Hermanus.
  • Respect the environment and wildlife by following sustainable travel practices.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 5-11
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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