About this Experience
Experience the world capital of land & boat‑based whale watching with added local flavours.
Tour Highlights
Guaranteed seat on top‑rated operator | - Marine biologist commentary onboard | - Penguin & wine bonus stops
Your Journey
Stop 1
Coastal drive on Clarence Drive
Stop 2
Hermanus boat trip (Southern Right Whales)
Stop 3
Free time on cliff path
Stop 4
Hemel‑en‑Aarde wine tasting
Stop 5
Stony Point penguin colony
Stop 6
Return.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Transport, boat ticket, wine tasting, penguin entry, snacks.
Not Included
- Lunch in Hermanus (choice of eateries).
Important Information
Seasonal Notes
Operates 1 Jun–30 Nov.
Child Policy
Min age 3 yrs on boat.
Accessibility
Boat not wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if trip cancelled by weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise is typically a full-day experience lasting 8-10 hours including transport from Cape Town. Half-day options may be available lasting 4-5 hours. Specific timing depends on your pickup location and chosen package.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise includes round-trip transportation from Cape Town hotels, professional guide services, entrance fees, and specified activities. Meals and refreshments inclusion varies by package - check your specific booking for details.
Yes, the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise offers excellent value combining professional guidance, comfortable transport, and unique Cape Town experiences. The convenience of organized tours with local expertise makes it worthwhile for visitors wanting authentic experiences.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise includes hotel pickup from Cape Town city center and Atlantic Seaboard areas. Specific pickup times are confirmed 24 hours before your tour. Alternative meeting points can be arranged for accommodations outside standard pickup zones.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise operates year-round with each season offering unique advantages. Summer (October-March) provides warm weather and longer days, while winter (May-September) offers clearer skies and dramatic landscapes. Cape Town's Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant conditions most days.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise welcomes families with age-appropriate activities for children. Some activities may have minimum age requirements for safety. Child rates are usually available for under 12s. Please inform operators of children's ages when booking.
For the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise, bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing in layers. Carry water and snacks unless meals are included. Don't forget cash for optional purchases and tips.
Book the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise at least 48-72 hours in advance, especially during peak season (October-March). Popular tours can sell out weeks ahead during holidays. Last-minute availability depends on group sizes and season.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise typically offers free cancellation 24-48 hours before the tour date for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur charges. Weather-related cancellations receive full refunds or free rescheduling.
Yes, the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise includes complimentary pickup from most Cape Town city center and Atlantic Seaboard hotels. Pickup typically begins 30-60 minutes before tour start time. Exact pickup time is confirmed the day before your tour.
Yes, the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise operates subject to safe sea conditions. Tours may be postponed in rough seas or severe weather. Operators monitor conditions closely and offer full refunds or rescheduling if cancellation is necessary.
Swimming ability is not required for the Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise as all activities include safety equipment and supervision. Life jackets are provided and mandatory. Professional crew ensures safety throughout your marine experience.
Tour Location
Tour Meeting Point
Hotels Cape Town & Stellenbosch
Getting There
Free hotel pickup included
Duration
9 h
Meeting Point
Hotels Cape Town & Stellenbosch
Guest Reviews
Hermanus Whale Watching Cruise was spectacular! At R1,950, experiencing the world capital of land & boat-based whale watching exceeded expectations. The 2-hour drive along the coast was scenic. Hermanus truly deserves its reputation - we saw 12 Southern Right whales including mothers with calves! The boat crew's expertise in locating whales while respecting their space was impressive. The hydrophone allowed us to hear whale songs underwater - absolutely magical! The local flavours included during the tour (biltong, dried fruit, wine tasting) added authentic touches. The town's cliff path whale watching spots were bonus additions. The marine biologist onboard shared fascinating whale migration facts. September-November is peak season but we saw plenty in August. This world-class whale watching experience is unmissable!
Hermanus boat-based whale watching was incredible! R1,950 for the world's best land & boat whale watching experience was great value. The Southern Right whales were so active - breaching, tail-slapping, and spy-hopping! We counted 15 whales including curious juveniles approaching our boat. The local flavours tour addition with wine tasting and traditional snacks was a nice touch. The crew's knowledge about whale behavior and conservation was impressive. Best experience between June and November!
Hermanus is truly the whale watching capital of the world! At R1,950, this boat cruise exceeded all expectations. We saw numerous Southern Right whales including mothers teaching their calves. The hydrophone let us hear their haunting songs underwater - absolutely magical! The coastal scenery is spectacular. The marine biologist onboard was incredibly knowledgeable about whale migration patterns and conservation efforts. The included local treats and wine tasting added a nice cultural touch. September to November is peak season but we saw plenty in August. Don't miss this world-class experience!