Whale watching

Dyer Island Cruises operates from Gansbaai, near Hermanus in the Western Cape, South Africa.
We offer exciting and informative eco-tours around Dyer Island all year (excluding May), and between July and December we combine the Island experience with boat- based whale watching. Our whale watching trips are considered not just magical but rewarding too, and are sure to capture everyone’s imagination. We can guarantee Southern right whale sightings between July and December. We also operate great white shark cage diving tours with Marine Dynamics. Join our team to experience both the whales and the sharks that have made Dyer Island world famous.



Where do we meet?

Dyer Island Cruises’ staff will meet you in our Marine Room at the Great White House in Kleinbaai for your trip.  There are bathroom facilities, as well as a restaurant and gift shop.

Click here for Map & Directions

What is a typical trip?

Every trip is preceded by a brief introductory talk about the route and what to look out for.  Passengers are fitted with comfortable life-jackets.  Safety is of the outmost importance.  We have extensive public liability insurance.

All cruises depart from Kleinbaai harbour near Gansbaai. Dyer Island is located 8 km from shore and is completely protected for the conservation of its many resident bird species, including African penguins. Adjacent to Dyer Island is Geyser Rock, home to a 60,000 strong Cape fur seal colony. These seals are also present all year round. The channel of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock is the now world renowned Shark Alley. This channel is part of our trip. On our whale watching and Dyer Island trips we also see: Great white sharks, Bryde’s whales, Humpback whales, Southern giant petrels, Cape gannets and Dolphins. 

We pride ourselves on being both fun and educational. Each trip is led by experienced marine guides who will share their knowledge with you, keeping emphasis on the welfare and conservation of the animal. Responsible tourism is our main objective so we focus on conservation, education, community upliftment and safety.

Whale Meeting
 

Anyone who has had the joy of meeting a mighty whale face to face will tell you just how magical it is. Huge, gentle, mysterious, curious. Can you imagine a giant friend, like none other? As captivated by you as you are by him. A whale longer and wider than the boat in which you sit. An old acquaintance to us, a new discovery for you. A whale of 40 tonnes launching clear of the sparkling blue sea. A majestic tail of 5 metres, saluting you against the backdrop of the rugged hills. An old enchanter, who may live to 200 years, who has had spellbinding adventures at sea which will be his secrets forever.