Embark on an exhilarating 2-hour expedition into the Indian Ocean, where you'll have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales up close. Join a qualified whale tour guide who will provide fascinating insights into these magnificent creatures and other local marine life.
Upon arrival at the meeting point, you'll be warmly greeted by your guide. Step aboard the 11-passenger boat (but we have two boats that will depart at overlapping time slots ), which has been registered with the South African Safety Authority as a suitable Whale and Dolphin Watching vessel since 2012. It proudly holds one of the limited whale watching permits in Durban. Set sail into the deep blue ocean, navigating towards the Mozambican current, and settle into your front-facing seats with the skipper and crew positioned behind you.
Between June and November each year, keep a lookout for the awe-inspiring displays of the whales breaching the surface as they make their migratory journey from the Southern Oceans to warmer tropical waters for mating and giving birth. Witness the whales in their natural habitat, marvelling at their inquisitive nature. If luck is on your side, you may witness remarkable moments such as a mother nurturing or playing with her calf, or older calves engaging in playful jumps and interactions to seek the attention of the adults.
In addition to the whales, this tour offers the chance to observe dolphins frolicking in the ocean swells and, on occasion, catch a glimpse of turtles emerging from the crystal-clear depths to feed on surface delights. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse local wildlife, ranging from birds and fish to the colossal humpback whales themselves, which can reach lengths of approximately 15 metres (49 feet) and weigh around 30 tonnes. Occasionally, you may even encounter orcas, manta rays, and formidable killer sharks.
Please note that cruises do not have a dedicated boat and rely on a selection of available vessels to accommodate fluctuations in weather, seasonal passenger numbers, and planned maintenance. While you may not be guaranteed a specific boat for your cruise, rest assured that you will still enjoy the same remarkable cruise experience aboard a different vessel.
Important information:
- This activity is not wheelchair-friendly.
- It is not recommended for toddlers (parental responsibility).
- The cruise route is subject to weather conditions.
