Hermanus is known as one of the best whale watching destinations in the world, with its stunning coastal views and abundant marine life. Here are some of the best places to see whales in Hermanus:
- Walker Bay: This is the most popular spot to see whales in Hermanus. The whales come here to mate and calve between June and December each year, making it an ideal location for whale watching. There are several viewpoints along the coastline where you can see the whales from land, or you can take a boat tour to get up close.
- Siever’s Point: This viewpoint is located on the western side of Hermanus and offers stunning views of the bay. It’s a great spot to see whales breaching and playing in the water.
- Grotto Beach: This long sandy beach is a great place to spot whales from shore, especially during the peak whale watching season. It’s also a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and picnicking.
- Old Harbor: The Old Harbor area is the historic heart of Hermanus and a popular spot for whale watching. From here, you can take a boat tour to see the whales up close, or simply enjoy the views from the shore.
- Cliff Path: The Cliff Path is a scenic walkway that runs along the coastline from one end of Hermanus to the other. It’s a great place to spot whales, as well as other marine life such as dolphins and seals.
The best time of year to spot whales in Hermanus
The best time of year to spot whales in Hermanus is between June and December, during the southern hemisphere winter and spring. During this time, the Southern Right whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the Antarctic to the warmer waters of South Africa to mate, give birth, and raise their calves.
The peak whale watching season in Hermanus is from September to November, when the whales are most active and visible. However, it’s important to note that whale sightings can vary depending on weather conditions, sea currents, and other factors.
It’s also worth noting that there are other species of whales and dolphins that can be spotted in Hermanus throughout the year, including Humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and several species of dolphins.
General Q & A about Whale Watching
Here are some general Q&A about whale watching in Hermanus:
- What is the best time of year for whale watching in Hermanus? A: The best time of year for whale watching in Hermanus is from June to December, with peak season being from September to November.
- What types of whales can you see in Hermanus? A: The most common species of whale that can be seen in Hermanus is the Southern Right whale, but Humpback whales and Bryde’s whales can also be spotted.
- Where are the best places to see whales in Hermanus? A: The best places to see whales in Hermanus are along the Cliff Path and from the Old Harbour area.
- How close can you get to the whales while whale watching in Hermanus? A: Whale watching boats are required to maintain a distance of at least 300m from the whales, while land-based whale watchers should maintain a distance of at least 50m.
- What should I wear when whale watching in Hermanus? A: It is recommended to wear warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable, and comfortable shoes with good grip, especially if you are walking along the Cliff Path. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended.
- What is the duration of a typical whale watching tour in Hermanus? A: A typical whale watching tour in Hermanus lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours.
- Is it safe to go whale watching in Hermanus? A: Yes, whale watching in Hermanus is safe as long as you follow the safety guidelines provided by tour operators and authorities, such as maintaining a safe distance from the whales and wearing life jackets on board the boats.
- Can you guarantee a whale sighting on a whale watching tour in Hermanus? A: No, it is not possible to guarantee a whale sighting on a whale watching tour in Hermanus. However, the chances of seeing whales during the peak season are high, and many tour operators offer a “whale sighting guarantee” or a partial refund or free tour if no whales are sighted.
- Is it free to watch whales or do you need to pay? You can watch whales for free from various vantage points along the Hermanus coastline, such as the Cliff Path and the Old Harbour area. However, if you would like to go on a guided whale watching tour with a qualified operator, you will need to pay a fee. These tours typically offer a closer and more in-depth experience of whale watching and have the advantage of being led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights and information about the whales and their behaviour.
List of companies that offers Whale Watching Tours
Here is a list of whale watching companies that offer tours in Hermanus:
- Southern Right Charters – https://www.southernrightcharters.co.za/
- Hermanus Whale Watchers – https://whalewatchers.co.za/
- Whale Watchers Hermanus – https://www.whalewatchers.co.za/hermanus-whale-watching/
- Dyer Island Cruises – https://www.whalewatchsa.com/
- Hermanus Experience – https://hermanus-experience.com/
- Ivanhoe Sea Safaris – https://www.boat-based-whale-watching.co.za/
- Whale Coast Rock Lodge – https://whalecoastrocklodge.co.za/
- African Wings – https://africanwings.co.za/
- Lady Stanford River Cruises – https://www.ladystanford.co.za/whale-watching/
- The Whale Route – https://www.thewhaleroute.com/
Remember to always respect the whales and follow responsible whale watching guidelines to ensure the safety and protection of these magnificent creatures.