Durban: Durban: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
ID: GYG274952-476682
Category:
Country: South Africa
Duration:
03:00 hours
Description
Cruise for 2 hours out onto the Indian Ocean and watch migratory humpback whales up close. Discover more about them with a guide and keep an eye out for other local marine life, including dolphins.
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, 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 onto 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, marveling 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 meters (49 feet) and weigh around 30 tons. 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.
Highlights
- Marvel at humpback whales in their natural habitat during the winter months
- See these gigantic mammals play and swim on their arduous migratory trek
- Learn about the life, behavior, and characteristics of the whales with a guide
- Discover other local marine life, such as dolphins, fish, and birds
- Sight various local marine life including dolphins all year round
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Some cruises do not have a dedicated boat and rely on a pool of available vessels to cover fluctuations in weather, seasonal passenger numbers, and planned maintenance. This means that passengers may not be guaranteed a specific boat for their cruise but will still be able to enjoy the same cruise experience on a different vessel
Whale and dolphin sightings are contingent on the time of year. In the winter months, there are dolphins and whales in the area. Whales pass Durban anytime from May to November annually. During the summer months, whales migrate elsewhere. During these months, you will instead go dolphin watching and see other sea creatures
Swimming with the animals is not permitted
No food is provided aboard but you can take some snacks along. There is a restaurant where you can purchase food and a big selection of restaurants to choose from at the end of the excursion
The Isle of Capri Cruises office is located on the Wilson's Wharf Marina, at the Casadena Spur end of the complex. Your ticket must be presented at the office/kiosk 30 minutes before the departure time.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.
