Skip to content
Whale Watching Hermanus Boat Tours Logo

Help

Whale Watching Hermanus FAQ

Common questions about whale watching in Hermanus, answered.

Everything you need to know before booking your Hermanus whale watching trip.

The main Southern Right Whale season in Hermanus generally runs from June through November, with sightings sometimes continuing into early December. September and October are typically peak months.

There is no fixed best time of day for whale watching in Hermanus. Morning and afternoon trips can both produce excellent sightings, and each trip is different because whale activity, sea conditions and weather can change throughout the day.

Typical Hermanus boat-based whale-watching departures are at 07:00, 09:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 and 17:00. An additional 06:30 departure may operate during summer. The 06:30 and 07:00 early departures are subject to sufficient daylight. All departures are subject to weather, sea conditions, availability and operator scheduling.

Southern Right Whales (most common), Humpback Whales, Bryde's Whales, plus dolphins, seals and African penguins.

Boat-based whale watching trips last 1.5 to 2 hours and are weather dependent.

Adults R1,500 per person, Pensioners and Students R1,400 per person, Children 3–12 R750, and Children under 3 are free.

Yes — all ages are welcome and life jackets are provided for children.

Safety always comes first. If conditions are unsafe, we reschedule or refund — or you can join our Cliff Path walking tour.

Warm layers, a windproof jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and closed shoes.

Walker Bay is usually calm, but if you're prone to motion sickness take tablets 30–60 minutes before departure.

About 120 km — a 1.5 hour drive on the N2 + R43, or longer on the scenic R44 coastal route.

Yes — especially during peak Southern Right Whale activity in September and October. Book online, via WhatsApp or by phone.

Boat-based whale watching trips in Hermanus depart from the New Harbour, located approximately 2 km from the town centre. You can open the Hermanus New Harbour in Google Maps. Guests are requested to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow sufficient time for harbour entry, parking, check-in, safety briefing and life jacket fitting before boarding.

Parking is generally available inside Hermanus New Harbour close to the whale watching departure area. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for harbour entry, parking and check-in. Parking is at the visitor's own risk. A small harbour entry fee may be payable at the harbour gate; this fee is payable separately by the guest, is not included in the boat fare, is controlled by the harbour authorities and is subject to change.

Yes. The New Harbour is home to several popular restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy breakfast, lunch, drinks or a meal before or after their whale watching trip, including Harbour Rock Restaurant, Gecko Bar & Restaurant and Quayside Cabin.

Boarding arrangements may vary depending on the vessel, tide, weather and sea conditions. Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to discuss their requirements when making an enquiry.

Yes. We offer private return transfers for guests travelling from Cape Town City Centre to Hermanus for boat-based whale watching. We collect you from your Cape Town City Centre accommodation and take you directly to Hermanus New Harbour. After your boat-based whale-watching trip is completed, your private transfer returns you to Cape Town.

Private Cape Town → Hermanus transfers start from R3,700 for 1–2 guests. This is transport only: it does not include sightseeing stops, lunch stops, Cliff Path stops, free sightseeing time in Hermanus or guided Hermanus sightseeing.

Guests wanting a more complete guided experience with additional time and stops should book our Private Hermanus Whale Watching Day Tour, or the more affordable shared Small-Group Hermanus Day Tour from Cape Town at R1,400 per person, which operates once 4 paying adult guests are booked.

Ready for a Whale of a Day?

Secure your spot on a boat-based whale watching tour in Hermanus. Daily departures, June – December.

Book NowWhatsApp UsCall +27 28 050 2273Email Reservation Request