4 Days / 3 Nights
The Trip of a lifetime
With a maximum of 10 guests per expedition, an intimate & immersive experience is guaranteed
This expedition takes you to the heart of the Humpback Whale supergroups & other rich marine life found in this region. The south west cape currently hosts the largest annual gathering of Humpback whales in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Itinerary
Day
01
- Arrive, settle in and meet your dedicated crew.
- Welcome & Orientation session with Skipper & Guide.
- Enjoy an afternoon guided coastal walk and watch the sun set while acclimatizing to the beauty of the West Coast. Interesting information shared on the shoreline ecosystem. Welcome Dinner with fellow guests & crew.
Day
02
- We set off early to spend the day in search of Humpback whales and the myriad of marine life the ocean has to offer. In the afternoon, freshen up and meet in the lounge for an interactive talk, hosted by Whale Specialist.
- The day comes to a close with Sundowners on the beach, toes in the sand and G&T in hand. Perfect way to reflect on the encounters from the day.
Day
03
- Another early start, we head to sea. Enjoy being in the presence of giants at close quarters. Encircle the uninhabited Dassen Island, home to a variety of seabird colonies, learn about its ecology and history.
- The evening offers a Fish Braai & Seafood Dinner with Expedition Crew
Day
04
- Farewell Breakfast followed by a day at Leisure, explore the West Coast fishing villages or simply relax on the beach. (Reserve day in case of inclement sea conditions)
- INCLUDES
- EXCLUDES
- WHAT TO BRING
- FAQs
- 3 nights’ accommodation, shared bathroom
- Boat based Whale Watching
- All Meals ( Breaks, Lunch & Dinner)
- Selection of Non-alcoholic drinks
- Snacks whilst at sea
- Shore Based activities
- All transfers during expedition program
- Welcome Pack on Arrival
- Transport to/from West Coast
- Video/Photographic equipment
- Travel/Medical insurance
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Gratuities
- Warm jacket
- Extra clothing
- Camera / video camera
- Motion tablets if necessary
- When is the best time of year?
Peak Season: November - January.
This is the time we regularly see Humpback whales in large groups, aggressively feeding.
Rest of the year:
Whale watching along the south African coast is however possible year-round.
The west coast region has a wide range of marine life and regular sightings of whales occurs year-round. - Weather & clothing?
"There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!"
You are about to embark on an expedition on the Atlantic Ocean - so dress appropriately!
The Cape weather is famously unpredictable, our peak season falls within South African summer, so we can be at sea in 30 degrees +, but other days mist, rain or wind can make the conditions colder
We will provide you with a rain/splash suit for a protective outer layer., however - layers are key. - Where do you launch from?
We follow the whales - so our launch sites can vary. However, our base is in Yzerfontein, a small town +/- 1Hr North of Cape Town.
There are several harbours within our permitted area, if the launch is changed to any of these we will notify you prior. - What can we expect to see?
Nature is never a guarantee - we all understand that.
Choosing to come with us is you, putting yourself in the best possible position to witness unbelievable whale sightings.
During peak season we regularly see Humpback whales, - at times in groups of 200+
However, we also see dolphins, seals, penguins and sunfish.
We have multiple islands we can visit which offer great birding opportunities & chance to see several shipwrecks. - Whale expedition vs whale watching trips?
Our whale Expeditions are the only experience like this in South Africa, we focus on giving an unparalleled in-depth whale experience to small groups.
Additionally, we are in one of, if not the best location to witness supergroups of whales at the right time of year. - What happens if the weather is too bad?
When booking, we strongly advise for you to have a few days either side of your chosen date available, so we can shift your booking if needed.
- 1 day expedition: if cancelled and you can't move to a suitable day - you will receive a full refund.
- Multiday Expedition: These are designed with the weather in mind, we have several days to work with. Should any of the days be non-sea going, provisions are made for alternative activities, (please see expeditions page for more information) - Are Children Allowed? Children under 12 are unfortunately not allowed, unless a private charter is booked.