Set out on a captivating journey to witness the world-renowned Hermanus whale watching experience. This full-day tour from Cape Town promises an unforgettable adventure, blending scenic drives, botanical garden visits, and the opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and a professional guide, the tour ensures a seamless and accessible experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or simply seeking a unique day trip, this Hermanus excursion offers a chance to learn about the wonders of the Southern Right Whales. Prepare to be captivated, as the tour unveils the enchanting sights and sounds of this remarkable coastal region.

Good To Know

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  • This full-day shared tour from Cape Town includes a scenic drive, visit to Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, and optional 2-hour whale watching boat cruise.
  • The tour starts with hotel pickup from downtown Cape Town and has a duration of approximately 8 hours.
  • Tour pricing starts at $108 per person, with discounts available for students and children, and additional costs for the optional whale watching boat cruise.
  • The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Lunch is not included, but the tour provides free time in Hermanus town to explore local dining options and coastal scenery.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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The Hermanus Whale Watching Full Day Shared Tour from Cape Town offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Priced from $108.00 per person, the 8-hour tour includes pickup from downtown Cape Town, a scenic drive with photo stops, and a visit to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden.

Guests can opt for a 2-hour whale watching boat cruise at their own expense.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary is subject to change, and no pets are allowed on the tour.

Itinerary Details

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The tour begins with hotel pickup (10 minutes before the scheduled departure time) from one of seven locations in downtown Cape Town.

After the pickup, the journey commences with a scenic 1.5-hour drive, featuring photo stops at notable townships, including Langa, the oldest township in South Africa, and Khayelitsha, the largest township in Cape Town.

The tour also includes:

  • A 15-minute stop at Gordon’s Bay for photographs
  • A drive through picturesque towns like Pringle Bay, Fisherhaven, and Betty’s Bay (home to a penguin colony)
  • A 30-minute visit to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden

Upon arrival in Hermanus, travelers have the option to embark on a 2-hour whale-watching boat cruise at their own expense.

Whale Watching Experience

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Upon arrival in Hermanus, travelers have the option to embark on a 2-hour whale-watching boat cruise at their own expense.

The boat cruise cost is R1300 per adult, R1200 for students, and R650 for children. Before the cruise, participants receive a 15-20 minute safety briefing. During the trip, the guide provides insights into whale behavior. The boat has a capacity of 80 people.

For those who prefer to stay on land, whale watching is also possible from the coastal cliffs.

After the cruise, travelers have 2 hours of free time to explore Hermanus town, including opportunities for shopping and dining at their own expense.

Lunch and Free Time

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Lunch isn’t included in the tour package, but travelers can enjoy exploring the culinary options available in Hermanus town during the 2 hours of free time.

This gives participants the flexibility to choose from a variety of local restaurants and cafes, catering to different tastes and budgets.

The free time also allows visitors to:

  • Stroll through the charming streets and browse the shops for souvenirs or local crafts
  • Visit the Old Harbour Museum to learn about the town’s rich maritime history
  • Admire the stunning coastal scenery and watch for whales from the shore.
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Inclusions and Exclusions

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The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, a bottle of water, fuel surcharge, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden.

However, lunch isn’t included and is available at the participant’s own expense in Hermanus town.

Plus, the optional 2-hour boat cruise for whale watching is an additional cost of R1300 per adult, R1200 for students, and R650 for children.

Passengers prone to seasickness should consider this additional expense.

The tour doesn’t allow pets, and itineraries are subject to change based on availability and conditions.

Important Information

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Customers should check availability for starting times, as itineraries are subject to change.

No pets are allowed on the tour.

The whale watching boat has a capacity of 80 people, and a safety briefing is provided before the cruise.

Plus, those prone to seasickness should be aware that the boat trip costs aren’t included in the tour price.

  • Itineraries are subject to change.
  • No pets allowed on the tour.
  • Boat capacity: 80 people.

Pricing and Availability

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The tour’s price starts from $108.00 per person, and customers can opt for the convenient "reserve now & pay later" option. The tour duration is 8 hours, and the language is English. Pickup is included from 7 locations in downtown Cape Town, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

Pricing Details Cost
Adult Ticket $108.00
Student Ticket $98.00
Child Ticket $54.00
Whale Watching Boat Cruise $98.00
Lunch Not Included

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, lunch is not included, so you will need to purchase meals at their own expense in Hermanus town during the free time.

Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Cruise?

Photography is allowed during the boat cruise. Guests can capture photos of the whales and scenic views from the boat, though they should be mindful of other passengers and follow the tour guide’s instructions.

How Many Restroom Stops Are Included During the Tour?

The tour includes 1-2 restroom stops along the scenic drive to Hermanus. Exact number may vary depending on the itinerary and participant needs. Comfort breaks are provided throughout the day-long excursion.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Whale Watching?

The tour does not require any special equipment for the whale watching portion. Participants should dress warmly and bring any medications they may need for seasickness, as the boat cruise can be choppy.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Run?

There’s no minimum number of participants required for the tour to run. The tour operates as a shared tour, so it will run regardless of the number of bookings, as long as there’s at least one participant.

The Sum Up

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The Hermanus Whale Watching Full Day Shared Tour from Cape Town offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers can witness the majestic whales, explore the scenic beauty of the region, and enjoy the local cuisine and shops. With hotel pickup, a professional guide, and optional boat cruises, this tour provides an accessible and comfortable way to explore the wonders of Hermanus.

You can check availability for your dates here: