Gansbaai: Whale Watching Boat Tour & De Kelders Cliffs

Summary

Southern right whales up close along Gansbaai’s wild coastline

You’ll feel salt spray on your face as you watch Southern right whales glide past De Kelders’ cliffs with a small group and local guide. Expect real closeness to wildlife, uncrowded decks for clear views, and quiet moments broken only by waves or laughter. It’s not just sightseeing — it’s being part of something wild for two hours.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was nervous stepping onto the boat in Gansbaai — not scared, just that jittery feeling you get before something you’ve only seen in documentaries. Our guide, Pieter, grinned and handed out rain jackets (good call — the wind off De Kelders is no joke). The boat wasn’t packed at all, so everyone could actually see without craning necks or fighting for space. I found myself next to an older couple from Joburg who’d brought binoculars and shared them with me when my camera fogged up. Salt in the air, diesel smell from the engine, and then just open water.

About twenty minutes in, Pieter pointed out a dark shape rolling just past the cliffs. “Southern right whale,” he said quietly, almost like he didn’t want to jinx it. The silence on board was weirdly loud for a second — everyone holding their breath until we saw that unmistakable tail flick. I probably grinned like an idiot. There were more after that — calves sticking close to their mothers, one even slapped its fin on the water and made a sound like someone dropping a suitcase overboard. You could hear gulls arguing overhead and sometimes the low rumble of distant waves hitting rock somewhere behind us.

The whole thing lasted about two hours but it felt both longer and shorter at once (I know that sounds strange). At some point I stopped taking photos because it just felt better to watch — cold fingers gripping the rail, sun glinting off wet backs as the whales surfaced. I still think about how quiet everyone got whenever one came close; you don’t expect that kind of hush on a boat full of strangers. Pieter told us these whales come here every winter to calf because of the sheltered bay — he seemed proud of that fact.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching from Gansbaai

• Board boat at De Keldar cliffs
• Watch Southern right whales
• Observe other marine life
• Enjoy uncrowded boat experience

Top questions

How long does the whale watching tour from Gansbaai last?

The whale watching tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is the whale watching boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed on this whale watching experience?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for whale watching in Gansbaai?

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

Will there be a guide during the whale watching tour?

Yes, a professional local guide is included throughout the boat ride.

Is public transportation available near Gansbaai whale watching?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby.

Are infant seats or strollers allowed on board?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your outing includes a two-hour boat ride along De Kelders cliffs with a professional local guide leading the way. The boat isn’t crowded so you’ll have space to move around for better views. All accessibility needs are covered—wheelchair access throughout—and infants can ride safely with specialized seats or strollers if needed.