10 Best Whale Watching Tours In Hermanus

Along South Africa’s whale-rich coastline, Hermanus stands out as a premier spot for cetacean encounters. The standard 2-hour boat tours ($82.54) put you up close with humpback, Bryde’s, and southern right whales, while land-based options give you flexibility and savings.

I especially love the full-day Cape Town departure ($144.16) – it combines a stunning coastal drive with prime whale watching spots. The private walking tours are another smart choice, hitting multiple viewpoints with expert commentary.

For those who appreciate variety, the whale-and-wine combo tours showcase the region’s dual specialties.

Let’s explore the best whale watching options in Hermanus.

Key Points

• Boat-based whale watching tours in Hermanus offer sightings of humpback, Brydes, and southern right whales, dolphins, and seals, lasting 2 hours and costing $82.54 per person.
• Land-based whale watching tours from Cape Town feature a scenic coastal drive to Hermanus with 2 hours of shore-based whale watching, priced from $144.16.
• Whale watching walking tours in Hermanus visit 5-7 picturesque spots along the coastline, with a 5.0 rating and 99% recommendation rate, starting in June 2025.
• Combination tours in Hermanus allow visitors to experience whale watching and wine tasting, as well as a visit to the Stony Point Nature Reserve with a penguin colony.
• Shark and whale combo trips in Hermanus or Cape Town provide an opportunity to see Great White Sharks and southern right whales, lasting 4.5-10 hours and priced from €115.44 per person.

Boat Based Whale Watching From Hermanus

One of the best ways to experience the incredible marine life around Hermanus is through a boat-based whale watching tour.

These highly-rated tours offer you the chance to see humpback, Brydes, and southern right whales, as well as dolphins and seals, depending on the season.

Led by a knowledgeable whale specialist guide, the 2-hour excursion accommodates up to 50 travelers and starts from $82.54 per person.

It includes a support crew, light refreshments, and transportation.

While wheelchair accessibility is limited, the tour is suitable for all ages, with life jackets provided for children under 12.

Many travelers have raved about the exceptional whale sightings and enthusiastic crew, making this an unforgettable experience.

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Cape Town: Hermanus Land Based Whale Watching Tour

Enjoy the captivating whale-watching experience of Hermanus with this comprehensive Cape Town tour. Priced from $144.16, this 8-hour excursion departs from Cape Town’s city center, transporting you along the scenic coastal drive to Hermanus.

Spend 2 hours observing the majestic Southern Right Whales from the shore, with an optional 2.5-hour boat cruise available at an additional fee. Complimentary bottled water, hotel pickup/drop-off, and an air-conditioned vehicle are provided, along with the opportunity to visit the Diamond Institute.

Remember to dress warmly and bring seasickness medication if needed, as whale sightings are weather-dependent. This tour offers an unparalleled chance to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays.

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Whale Watching Walking Tours (Land-Based) – From JUNE

For an up-close and unobstructed whale watching experience, consider the Whale Watching Walking Tours (Land-Based) in Hermanus.

These private tours from June 2025 take you along the picturesque coastline, visiting 5-7 spots including paved walkways and hidden coves.

You’ll learn about marine life and visit The Whale House Museum. Traveling by air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

With a 5.0 rating from 85 reviews and 99% recommendation, these tours offer an exceptional whale watching experience.

The tours are wheelchair accessible, include bottled water and a knowledgeable guide, and can be booked directly from your accommodation or The Whale Museum.

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Hermanus: Whale Watching Boat Trip and Wine Tasting ,Penguin

Embark on an exhilarating whale watching boat trip and wine tasting adventure in Hermanus.

Cruise along the picturesque coastline in search of majestic southern right whales. Admire their graceful movements as they breach and spy-hop.

After your whale watching experience, visit a premier local winery and indulge in tastings of the region’s renowned vintages.

Complement your wine tasting with a visit to the nearby Stony Point Nature Reserve, home to a thriving penguin colony.

This immersive full-day tour offers the perfect blend of wildlife encounters and oenological delights, allowing you to fully experience the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of Hermanus.

Read our full review: Hermanus: Whale Watching Boat Trip and Wine Tasting ,Penguin Review
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Shark & Whale Trip Combo

Combine the thrill of shark encounters with the awe-inspiring sight of whales on this captivating excursion.

Depart from Hermanus or Cape Town for a 4.5-10 hour journey, where you’ll have the chance to spot the mighty Great White Shark and the majestic Southern Right Whales.

Enjoy the convenience of pickup services and bask in the expertise of your knowledgeable guides.

With a 4.5-star rating and over 347 reviews, this shark and whale combo trip promises an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the raw power of nature and create lasting memories on this thrilling adventure.

Prices start from €115.44 per person, making it an accessible and must-do activity during your time in Hermanus.

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Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience

Explore the whale watching capital of the world with a captivating boat-based experience in Hermanus.

Spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat on a 1.5-2 hour tour, priced at $76.54 per person. Witness a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and seabirds, while enjoying unobstructed views from the top deck.

The safety-focused crew provides a briefing before departure and shares insights about the wildlife. Conveniently located at Hermanus New Harbour, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages.

With an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on 777 reviews, this is a must-do activity for your Hermanus visit, especially during the peak whale watching months of August and October.

Read our full review: Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience Review
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Hermanus Whale Watching Day Tour

The Hermanus Whale Watching Day Tour offers a captivating opportunity to encounter the majestic marine giants in their natural habitat. Priced from $25.24 per person, this 2-hour excursion departs from the whale watching capital of South Africa, Hermanus.

You’ll observe a variety of marine life, including dolphins and seals, while a live guide provides insights. The boat’s top deck provides unobstructed views, weather permitting, and the vessel approaches the whales with engines disengaged for safety.

However, be advised that some customers have reported mixed experiences, so it’s important to verify pickup locations and booking conditions before confirming your reservation.

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Hermanus Whale Watching Experience

Enjoy a 1.5-hour boat tour to spot magnificent whales off the coast of Hermanus.

This top-rated activity (4.5 rating from 777 reviews) lets you witness the incredible marine life up close. The tour departs from Hermanus and provides a chance to see southern right whales, humpback whales, and even dolphins.

With pickup available, you can conveniently access this unforgettable experience. Priced at €72.41 per person, the Hermanus Whale Watching Experience is a must-do during your visit.

Witness the power and grace of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, making memories that will last a lifetime.

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Cape Town: Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip & Penguins Tour

Set out on a captivating 9-hour adventure that combines the wonders of whale watching in Hermanus with the enchantment of penguin observation at Stony Point.

You’ll be picked up from your Cape Town hotel, then head to Hermanus for a 2-3 hour boat trip where you may spot southern right whales, seals, and marine birds.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before driving to Bettys Bay to visit the Stony Point Penguins Colony.

The scenic return journey along Route 44 completes this well-rounded excursion.

With a private guide, comfortable transportation, and all entry fees covered, you’ll make the most of this whale watching and penguin-viewing experience.

Read our full review: Cape Town: Hermanus Whale Watching Boat Trip & Penguins Tour Review
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Hermanus: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

For a chance to get up close with magnificent marine mammals, embark on a 2-hour whale and dolphin watching boat trip from the charming coastal town of Hermanus.

Priced from $73.22 per person, this guided tour offers opportunities to see southern right, humpback, and Bryde’s whales, as well as dolphins.

Aboard a purpose-built catamaran, you’ll enjoy comfort features and onboard amenities like light refreshments.

While children under 12 are welcome, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, seamless organization, and incredible wildlife sightings.

Just remember to pack weather-appropriate clothing, sea sickness tablets, and your camera – though tripods and binoculars aren’t advised.

Read our full review: Hermanus: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip Review
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The Sum Up

When you’re looking for the best whale watching tours in Hermanus, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a boat-based tour, a land-based walking tour, or a combination with wine tasting or penguin spotting, Hermanus has a lot to offer. Just pick the tour that fits your interests and budget, and get ready for an unforgettable experience watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.