The coastal town of Hermanus delivers South Africa’s finest whale watching, with daily boat departures from New Harbour between June and December. Two-hour tours (from $82) use stable catamarans that get you remarkably close to humpback, Bryde’s, and southern right whales. I love Southern Right Charters for their expert naturalist guides and roomy vessels that never feel crowded. Their combo tours smartly pair whale watching with nearby wine tasting or African penguin viewing. The best operators offer free cancellation and maintain small group sizes for intimate wildlife encounters. Let’s look at my favorite boat tours in Hermanus.
Key Points
- Whale watching tours from Hermanus’ New Harbour offer optimal marine life sightings, with prices starting at $82.36 per person and a maximum capacity of 50 travelers.
- The Hermanus Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip is a 2-hour excursion on a purpose-built catamaran, priced at Kč 1,745 per person with a knowledgeable guide.
- The Whale Watching and Wine Tasting Experience combines a 2-hour whale watching tour with wine tasting for $49 per person, with an optional Penguin tour.
- The Boat-Based Whale Watching Experience in Hermanus lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, departing from the New Harbour, priced at €72.23 per person.
- The Cape Town to Hermanus Day Trip includes a 2-3 hour whale watching boat trip, a town tour, and a visit to the Stony Point Penguins Colony, priced at $249.16 per person.
Boat Based Whale Watching From Hermanus
Whale watching from Hermanus’ New Harbour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the grandeur of South Africa’s marine life up close.
With a starting price of $82.36 per person, the tours offer a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility. The maximum of 50 travelers per tour allows for an intimate experience, with a name-based check-in system and easy reservation process.
The approximately 2-hour tour, conducted in English, focuses on maximizing the chances of whale sightings, with a whale specialist providing insights.
Sightings of humpback, Bryde’s, and southern right whales, as well as dolphins and seals, are common. The attentive crew ensures passenger comfort and safety, with life jackets provided for children under 12.
With an average rating of 4.5 stars from 204 reviews and positive testimonials, this whale watching experience is highly recommended for its educational focus and close encounters with these magnificent creatures.
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Hermanus: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Hermanus: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip. For just Kč 1,745 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour excursion aboard a purpose-built catamaran to spot whales and dolphins along South Africa’s renowned Whale Capital coastline.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later, securing your spot without immediate payment.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable whale specialist guide, you’ll learn about the diverse marine life as you embark on close encounters with these majestic creatures. An expert videographer will capture the tour footage, allowing you to relive the experience long after your journey.
Onboard refreshments and light snacks will keep you energized throughout the trip. Just remember to dress appropriately and bring any necessary medication, as the boat tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with motion sickness.
With an exceptional 4.7/5 overall rating, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
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Hermanus: Whale Watching Boat Trip and Wine Tasting ,Penguin
Dive into an unparalleled adventure by embarking on the Hermanus: Whale Watching Boat Trip and Wine Tasting. This 2-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience, with a rating of 4.3 from 12 reviews and a price of $49 per person.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat, followed by a wine tasting in the picturesque town of Hermanus. The tour departs from Cape Town, providing a convenient way to explore the scenic Whale Coast region.
Alongside the whale watching, you can also opt for a Penguin tour, allowing you to witness the charming African penguins up close. With a duration of 10 hours and a price of $276.85 per person, this comprehensive day trip from Cape Town offers a well-rounded experience.
Whether you’re seeking an intimate whale watching adventure or a diverse day of exploration, the Hermanus: Whale Watching Boat Trip and Wine Tasting is an excellent choice for your Hermanus experience.
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Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience
When exploring the captivating town of Hermanus, one can enjoy an unforgettable boat-based whale watching experience. The activity offers a chance to observe whales in their natural habitat, along with a variety of marine life like dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
The 1.5 to 2-hour tour departs from the Hermanus New Harbour, with the meeting point at the orange building on the right after entering the harbor. Guests should arrive 30 minutes early and come prepared with a windbreaker, weather-appropriate clothing, and flat shoes.
The boat’s upper deck provides unobstructed views, weather permitting, and the crew offers a safety briefing and information about the local wildlife. With a price of €72.23 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience allows visitors to get close to curious whales and enjoy the thrill of being in their natural environment.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 771 reviews, the tour is suitable for all ages and a must-do activity in the whale watching capital of the world.
Read our full review: Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience Review
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Cape Town: Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip & Penguins Tour
For those seeking an exhilarating day trip from Cape Town, the Cape Town: Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip & Penguins Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of the region.
Priced at $249.16 per person, this 9-hour tour includes a private guide, hotel pickup, a 2-3 hour whale watching boat trip, a town tour of Hermanus, lunch, and a visit to the Stony Point Penguins Colony.
You’ll have the chance to see southern right whales, seals, and marine birds, as well as snap photos of the adorable African penguins.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides flexibility and convenience.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate.
Just remember to dress warmly and check availability for the starting times that best suit your schedule.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip & Penguins Tour Review
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The Sum Up
You’ll find an array of boat-based whale watching experiences in Hermanus, from classic whale and dolphin watching tours to trips that also include wine tastings and penguin viewing. Whether you’re seeking a straightforward whale watching excursion or a more comprehensive outing, Hermanus offers excellent options to observe these magnificent marine creatures. With multiple tour providers, you can easily find a boat tour that suits your preferences and budget.