This is one of the most immersive whale experiences in the world. For 4 months of the year South Africa’s south western coastline calls itself home to the largest gathering of Humpback whales in the Southern Hemisphere.
THE HUMPBACK HIGHWAY
The West Coast offers vast open spaces, is home to spectacular nature reserves and seascapes that appear to extend further than the horizon, it is the perfect backdrop in which to experience the Humpback Supergroups. The Expedition crew are well versed in Whale Approach and Behaviour with over a decade of whale watching experience in various locations worldwide. Small groups, customisable and adaptable expeditions.
These social gatherings, typically composed of dozens of individuals, showcase the unique and complex social structure of humpback whales. Witnessing these majestic creatures interact, breach, and communicate with one another in such large numbers is not only awe-inspiring but also provides valuable insight into their behavior and dynamics. The nutrient-rich waters off the coast provide the perfect feeding grounds for these massive marine mammals, allowing them to refuel before continuing their long migration journeys.
DAY TRIP ITINERARY
1. An early morning departure from your accommodation in Cape Town or the Winelands for a 1hr drive to the coastal town of Yzerfontein
2. Breakfast, orientation session and safety briefing with crew
3. Spend 3-4 hours on the water in search of humpback supergroups and the myriad of marine life
4. Return back to shore for debrief and lunch at the crew house and depart back to your accommodation
*Times can vary but the experience is typically from 7AM (Pick up in Cape Town) until 4pm (Drop-off in Cape Town)
IMPORTANT INFO
(THIS TOUR ONLY RUNS FROM NOVEMBER - FEBRUARY DURING THE SUPERGROUPS SEASON)
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Small group promise with only 10 pax max onboard
4-5hr Whale watching experience with whale experts
Expediton video and professional photographs
Continental breakfast spread
BBQ lunch and non-alcoholic beverages
On-board drinking water and snacks whilst in vehicle and out at sea
Life jacket suited to size
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Return road transfer to launch point
Photographic equipment
Meals not mentioned
Alcoholic beverages
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What do to bring? A warm jacket, change of clothing, camera, hat, sunglasses, motion sickness tablets if necessary.
What time do we launch? This depends on ocean swell but normally before 9am.
What time do we leave Cape Town? Depends on the launch time but be prepared to leave as early as 6am.
What do we wear? This is the cold Atlantic ocean, layer up! We will provide a splash suit/poncho.
What can we expect to see? Nature is never a guarantee - we all understand that. Choosing to come with us is you, putting yourself in the best possible position to witness unbelievable whale sightings. During peak season we regularly see Humpback whales, - at times in groups of 200+ however, we also see dolphins, seals, penguins and sunfish. We have multiple islands we can visit which offer great birding opportunities & chance to see several shipwrecks.
What happens if the weather is too bad? When booking, we strongly advise for you to have a few days either side of your chosen date available, so we can shift your booking if needed. If cancelled and you can't move to a suitable day you will receive a full refund less a 5% cash handling fee.
Are children allowed? Children under 12 are unfortunately not allowed, unless a private charter is booked.
What is the cost of a private charter? 57 000.00 ZAR
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Windbreaker or jacket
Sun cream and a hat
Binoculars and camera gear
Change of clothing
Sea sick tablets if needed
COST BREAKDOWN:
FROM 6550.00 zar per person
+ ADDitional cost FOR RETURN TRANSFER
THE BOAT CAN TAKE UP TO 10 PAX ONLY
THE BOAT LAUNCH POINT IS IN THE TOWN OF YZERFONTEIN, 1 HOUR DRIVE FROM CAPE TOWN
6550.00 ZAR PP APPLIES FOR SELF-DRIVE GUESTS
PRICE VALID NOVEMBER 2026 - FEBRUARY 2027