Apex Shark Expeditions Gansbaai Whale Watching

The oceans off the southern tip of Africa offer some of the most exciting whale watching in the world with at least 37 different species of dolphins and whales calling these waters home!

The whale watching trip gives you an opportunity to marvel at the size and grace of these incredible animals and be thrilled by encounters with a host of other marine life including African penguins, Cape Fur seals, Cormorants, Bank Cormorants and possibly even sharks.
Around June each year the Southern Right whales tend to arrive, and usually depart late November. Between May and December we see the Humpback whales migrate through the region, and we are fortunate to have the Brydes whales offshore all year round.

The area, however, is famous for the frequent encounters with Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, as well as a number of species of coastal dolphins. You also have the chance to see Cape Fur seals, African penguins, oyster catchers and a variation of marine life.

How to avoid sea-sickness
Avoid any alcohol the evening before your trip, or at least drink with moderation. Alcohol and hangovers are a near guarantee for sea-sickness.
Take an anti-motion sickness tablet the evening before your trip, and another one an hour before boarding the boat (these are available at any pharmacy without prescription – we recommend Dramamine or Stugeron).
During the trip, stay outside of the cabin, remain in the fresh breeze, and avoid the toilet. Keep your eyes on the horizon from the start, and try not to look through your camera's view finders for too long (most compact digital cameras offer a screen, use this option). If the sea is choppy, avoid going on the top deck where the boat's movements will be accentuated. Wear comfortable and loose clothing items, or just make yourselves as comfortable as possible by opening buttons or belts.
This service is weather dependent. We receive our final weather report at 14h00 each day and the decision to put to sea is made by the skipper based on this weather update. We will, therefore, confirm or cancel the afternoon prior to your trip.

Location - Old Harbour in Hermanus

When - The service is available 1 June to 16 November each year.

Wear - Warm clothing in winter: June to September – Closed shoes, long pants, waterproof jacket and cap / beanie. In summer: October – April – a wind-breaker, cap / hat.

Bring - Dress in layers, Warm weather jacket, closed shoes, beanie, scarf, hat/cap, polarized sunglasses, sun block & camera.

Spectators can wait for the guests at our offices until the boat returns.