Boat-based whale watching from Hermanus: See whales on the water
Watch whales from a catamaran built for close viewing and comfort
Boat-based whale watching from Hermanus departs from the New Harbour on a purpose-built catamaran with a whale specialist guide, light refreshments and hotel pickup. You get an on-land orientation before boarding, then head out to spot humpback, Bryde's and southern right whales, dolphins and seals depending on the season. A professional videographer captures the highlights.
What’s included
- Hotel pickup and return transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- on-land orientation with the whale specialist.
- boat-based whale watching on the catamaran.
- light refreshments and bottled water.
- professional videography of your excursion.
Times
- Every day 06:30
Before you book
Operated by Paul polano tours
Prices and times updated 4 days ago
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The experience
If you're in Hermanus with a free afternoon and want to see whales without arranging your own boat, this tour handles the logistics: hotel pickup, transport to the New Harbour, and a guide who knows where to look. The catamaran is purpose-built for viewing and comfort, which matters when you're spending roughly two and a half hours on the water. Before you board, a whale specialist leads a brief orientation on land so you know what you're about to see and why the whales behave the way they do.
Once out on the water, the crew stays attentive to passenger comfort while the specialist interprets what's happening around you: explaining whale behaviour, identifying species, pointing out dolphins and seals. Depending on the time of year, you might see humpback whales, Bryde's whales, or southern right whales. A professional videographer is on board to capture moments you'll want to remember, and the boat carries bottled water and light refreshments for the journey.
Departures are weather permitting, so start times may shift based on conditions. The tour operates in English and French, and children from age 3 are welcome on board. If you want a recording of the excursion, a USB movie is available to purchase separately at the end of the day.
Is this one for you?Book this tour if you want to see whales from the water with a guide who explains their behaviour and a crew focused on your comfort, and you prefer not to arrange transport or navigation yourself.
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Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English and French.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (3 to 11 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What whales might I see on this boat tour from Hermanus?
Humpback, Bryde's and southern right whales are the main species you could encounter, along with dolphins and seals. Which ones you see depends on the time of year and where the whales are feeding or migrating.
How long does the boat spend out on the water?
The boat portion lasts approximately two and a half hours, which includes time searching for whales and watching them once you find them.
Is the catamaran comfortable if I get seasick easily?
The boat is purpose-built for viewing and comfort, and the crew provides personal attention throughout. Light refreshments and bottled water are on board. If you're prone to seasickness, mention it when you book so the operator can advise you.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
All departures are weather permitting. If conditions are unsafe, your start time may be adjusted or the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety reasons.
Boat-based whale watching from Hermanus: See whales on the water
6h · EN · FR · at your hotel
from US$ 310 per person
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