Gansbaai: Walker Bay sea safari with local guide & boat

Summary

Chasing Walker Bay’s marine Big 5 by boat from Gansbaai

You’ll set out from Gansbaai by boat into Walker Bay with a local guide, searching for whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and marine birds. Listen to stories from your skipper as you watch wildlife along dramatic cliffs and beaches. With salty air in your hair and surprises around every corner, this is one of those sea safaris you’ll remember long after the spray dries.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salty wind — not harsh, but enough to wake you up as we left the Gansbaai harbor. Our guide, Pieter, waved at a fisherman untangling nets nearby (they all seem to know each other here), then pointed out the cliffs of De Kelders. The water had that weird chameleon color — blue one minute, greenish the next — and honestly, I kept squinting at every splash thinking it might be a dolphin. It wasn’t yet. But you get this feeling anything could pop up at any second.

Pieter started telling us about Walker Bay’s “Big 5” — whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and these wild-looking marine birds whose names I can’t pronounce (he tried to teach me; I gave up after two). There was this moment when everyone went quiet except for the engine hum and some gulls overhead — just waiting. Then someone shouted “there!” and sure enough, a whale’s back broke the surface way off in the distance. Not close enough for a perfect photo (I tried anyway), but close enough that you could hear people exhale all at once.

I didn’t expect how much I’d enjoy watching the seals lolling around on De Platt Beach — they looked like they were sunbathing on purpose. And then there were penguins waddling along rocks like tiny old men in tuxedos. Pieter laughed when my friend called them “little bosses.” The whole time he kept sharing stories about growing up here and what changes he’s seen in the bay over the years — it made everything feel more real somehow.

The trip lasted about two hours but felt both longer and shorter than that (time does something strange out there). We didn’t see every single animal up close — no guarantees with nature — but honestly? That made it better. There’s something about not knowing what you’ll spot next that sticks with you long after you’re back on land.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Big 5 Sea Safari in Walker Bay

• 2 Hour Big 5 Sea Safari targeting marine wildlife
• Depart from Gansbaai harbor
• Cruise past De Kelders and De Platt Beach cliffs
• Observe coastline and beaches from Gansbaai to Hermanus
• Head into middle of Walker Bay searching for Big 5
• Learn about marine life from marine biologist and skipper

Top questions

How long is the Walker Bay sea safari from Gansbaai?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from departure to return.

What animals might I see on this sea safari?

You may spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and various marine birds during the trip.

Is there a local guide or expert on board?

Yes, trips include an experienced skipper and a qualified marine biologist as guides.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible for this tour.

What should I bring for the sea safari?

You should bring warm clothes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera or video camera, and binoculars if possible.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat departs from Gansbaai harbor along Walker Bay’s coast.

What’s included

Your experience includes a guided boat ride led by an expert skipper and marine biologist through Walker Bay departing from Gansbaai harbor. All guidance is provided throughout the journey; infants can use specialized seats if needed; accessibility is ensured for wheelchairs and strollers so everyone can join comfortably.