Walvis Bay: Dolphin & Seal Catamaran Cruise with Oysters

Summary

Walvis Bay lagoon cruise with seals dolphins oysters & local stories

You’ll ride a catamaran from Walvis Bay with friendly guides, watching seals and pelicans come right onboard as dolphins surface nearby. Taste fresh Namibian oysters with sparkling wine while drifting past oyster farms and shipwrecks toward Pelican Point’s seal colony. It’s relaxed, sometimes funny, always real — perfect if you want to feel close to Namibia’s wild coast for a morning.

What’s the experience like?

“That’s not a dog, it’s a seal!” someone shouted, and I nearly dropped my coffee. We’d just left the Walvis Bay Waterfront — still wiping sleep from my eyes — when these fat brown seals started flopping right onto the catamaran deck. Our guide, Pieter (who everyone seemed to know), handed out blankets and pointed at a pelican strutting around like he owned the place. The air smelled salty and sharp, but then you’d get this whiff of something briny-sweet when they brought out the oysters later. I didn’t expect to laugh so much before 10am.

The boat glided past lines of oyster farms — rows of black dots in the glassy lagoon — while Pieter told us how Walvis Bay’s tides shape everything here. He showed us where dolphins usually pop up (they did, right on cue, which made me look like I’d staged it for my friend). There was this moment near Pelican Point where everything went quiet except for the wind and some distant barking from the seal colony. The sun broke through and lit up the water so bright it almost hurt to look at. I still think about that view sometimes.

We tried fresh oysters with sparkling wine — honestly, I was nervous because raw things aren’t usually my thing, but they tasted cold and clean, almost like biting into the ocean itself. Someone asked about shipwrecks and Pieter laughed: “You want stories? Namibia’s got too many.” He let us linger by the lighthouse a bit longer than planned because no one wanted to leave yet. The snacks were simple but good (I ate more than my share), and there was always someone offering tea or coffee if you wanted it instead of bubbly. There’s something about being out there with locals who actually love what they do — makes you feel like you’re part of their morning routine for a few hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Walvis Bay Marine Wildlife Cruise

• Depart from Walvis Bay Waterfront
• Sail along Walvis Bay tidal lagoon
• Pass oyster farms and shipwreck
• Visit Pelican Point and lighthouse
• Observe seal colony and marine life
• Enjoy fresh oysters and sparkling wine
• Receive guided educational commentary
• Return to Walvis Bay Waterfront

Top questions

How long is the Walvis Bay dolphin & seal cruise?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours along Walvis Bay lagoon to Pelican Point.

Are fresh oysters included on this tour?

Yes, complimentary fresh oysters are served onboard along with sparkling wine.

Is this cruise suitable for children or families?

Yes, all ages are welcome—infants can ride in strollers or sit on laps.

Is wheelchair access available on the catamarans?

Yes, vessels are wheelchair accessible and have facilities for easy boarding.

What wildlife can I see during this Walvis Bay cruise?

You may see dolphins, seals (often onboard), pelicans, seasonal whales, turtles, sunfish and various birds.

Where does the tour depart from?

The cruise departs every morning from Walvis Bay Waterfront.

Are drinks and snacks provided during the trip?

Yes—snacks platter, fresh oysters, sparkling wine, coffee/tea & assorted drinks are included.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes—special dietary needs can be catered for if informed in advance.

What’s included

Your morning includes departure from Walvis Bay Waterfront on a comfortable catamaran with blankets and toilet facilities onboard; enjoy complimentary light lunch featuring fresh Namibian oysters with sparkling wine plus assorted snacks and drinks; coffee and tea are always available; safety equipment is provided for adults and children; wheelchair access is available throughout your trip before returning after about three hours on the water.