Join Marine Wildlife Boat Tours in Hermanus for an authentic ocean adventure in Walker Bay, home to whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and rich birdlife.
Set against the dramatic cliffs and open waters of Walker Bay, Marine Wildlife Boat Tours with Hermanus Whale Watchers offer the chance to experience the wild ocean side of Hermanus from the best possible viewpoint — right on the water. From whales and dolphins to seals, seabirds, and endangered African penguins, every trip is shaped by nature, and no two outings are ever the same.
Meet the Unathi – your ocean adventure vessel
Your journey takes place aboard Unathi, a purpose-built vessel designed for comfort, safety, and excellent viewing. The boat offers comfortable restaurant-style seating for up to 36 passengers, ensuring a relaxed experience for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
For those wanting the best possible views, the top deck provides bird’s-eye perspectives over Walker Bay — ideal for spotting dolphins racing the bow, seabirds following the action, or whales surfacing nearby. Whether you prefer sheltered seating or open-air views, Unathi offers the perfect balance.
Friendly faces and local knowledge
Trips depart from the New Harbour in Hermanus, where guests are welcomed at the crew house — the distinctive orange building at the harbour entrance.
On board, knowledgeable guide Peter brings the experience to life with stories about the marine wildlife you may encounter, along with fascinating local history and legends of Hermanus. From early fishing traditions to the origins of the shark industry — which began right here due to Hermanus’s once-booming fishing industry — the stories add depth and local flavour to every trip.
What marine life can you expect to see?
Whale season may be shifting, but the ocean around Hermanus is anything but quiet. From sunrise to splashdown, each boat trip offers new surprises.
On a typical Marine Wildlife Boat Tour, you may encounter:
🐬 Playful common dolphins racing alongside the boat
🦭 Cape fur seals lounging on the water or diving nearby
🐧 Endangered African penguins cruising along the coastline
🐋 Humpback and Bryde’s whales (season dependent)
🦅 A wide variety of seabirds, from cormorants to gulls and more
During whale season, Southern Right Whales may also be spotted resting in the bay, often with calves close by. Outside peak whale months, dolphin activity and birdlife often take centre stage.
A respectful, responsible ocean experience
Marine Wildlife Boat Tours with Hermanus Whale Watchers follow a respectful, conservation-focused approach. Wildlife is never chased, and encounters unfold naturally, allowing animals to behave as they choose.
This ensures a calmer, more meaningful experience for guests — and helps protect the marine environment that makes Walker Bay so special.
Perfect for first-timers and seasoned ocean lovers
Whether it’s your first ocean adventure or your hundredth, Hermanus always finds a way to impress. Families, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and casual travellers alike are drawn to the unpredictable beauty of the bay.
Some trips are filled with fast-paced dolphin action. Others are slow and peaceful, with long moments of quiet observation. That variety is what makes each journey unique.
How to check availability and book your trip
Booking your Marine Wildlife Boat Tour is easy:
👉 Website :
https://hermanuswhalewatchers.co.za/
🎟️ Online booking system:
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak holiday periods. https://hermanuswhalewatchers.activitar.com/products
📞 Contact numbers:
- WhatsApp bookings: +2782 931 8064
- Office: +27 312 4957
Trips operate weather permitting, as sea conditions play an important role in safety and comfort.
Discover the Wild Ocean Side of Hermanus 🌊🐬🦭🦅
From whales and dolphins to seals, penguins, and seabirds, Marine Wildlife Boat Tours with Hermanus Whale Watchers offer an authentic, unforgettable way to experience Hermanus from the ocean.
Join us on the water — and let the ocean decide what you’ll see today.