Marine Big 5 Safari With Transport From Cape Town

If you want to go whale watching in the Western Cape, you MUST go with Marine Dynamics. Everything was top-notch! Our driver, Heima,, who picked us up from our residence, was a terrific driver and had a wonderful personality (both he and his sons work for the company). This service provider is superbly well-organized, down to the smallest detail. They even arranged for the whales to make a showing (just kidding - but we did see five whales, including some babies!). What makes this provider special, though, is that they are a pioneer in sustainable tourism and are engaged in meaningful conservation efforts.

Great Experience – Saw All of the Marine Big 5 Really enjoyable experience and we were fortunate enough to see all of the Marine Big 5. We saw the penguins on their island, a huge seal colony and were lucky enough to spot a bronze whaler shark, which apparently hadn’t been seen for several weeks. The highlight was definitely the whales. We saw five separate pods, including several whales breaching in pairs multiple times, which was brilliant to watch. Service was excellent throughout and the team were friendly and knowledgeable. The whole experience took around three hours, with approximately two hours on the water once everyone had completed the safety briefing and boarded the boat. I’d recommend sitting at the front of the upper deck if you can, as you get a great view of everything. Overall, a really well-run experience and one we’d definitely recommend.

Pick up in Cape Town, although an early start was well worth the experience, coffee on arrival before trip general talk on H&S and what to expect and see coffee and snack after, well worth it better than most whale watching trips I’ve been on.

Fantastic experience with Marine Dynamics! Perfect size boat, small, very respectful group of travelers. We were blessed with fantastic weather and we did indeed see all of the Marine Big 5! Great guides, driver and boat crew. Even the scenery on the drive was incredible.

Well, initially, I was a bit taken back by the realization that this was a 10 hour tour. We got picked up at Winchester Hotel in Cape Town and we’re informed that it would be about 2 1/2 hour drive to the boat. I initially recoiled at this. But as we picked up other passengers and Rhey, our driver explained the situation and provided a lively narrative all the way to the boat, I soon realized that this was the only way to take such a tour. The 2+ hour drive took us down below all of the rifraf along the coast to an area that teemed with Southern Right Whales as well as everything else we wanted to see. We stopped for a bio break and refreshments was very timely. The check-in process at Green dynamics and the refreshments were also enjoyable. The boarding process and the entire voyage was both memorable and exhilarating the boat and the crew were perfect and we had a wonderful time. One of the most memorable parts of the voyage was at the end when they drove the boat right onto a trailer and it and all 40 passengers were hauled out and up onto the parking lot and a staircase was provided for everybody to disembark. Well, the entire experience, including the crew, the boat, and the weather was everything that was promised the refreshments were a little bit lacking. We did not get any water to drink.

Amazing experience! We saw whales, dolphins, seals, penguins and sharks. The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable and we learned so much.

Not what you would expect but the hospitality was top tier best to go when they are in season so you can see all five we didn't get to see all five just whales

The operators are very good at organizing and conducting the boat exploration. We saw the backs of whales, penguins floating on the water, seals, dolphins, and a few sharks by the shark boat. The workers onboard were extremely helpful and kind. The water was very rough and the boat is fairly small so if someone has motion sickness or balance issues they would need to take medicine and be very careful moving around. I would recommend this trip because you do see a lot of marine life.

Participating in a real conservation program while encountering wildlife is so unique! Our guides were super friendly and always happy to tell us everything they knew about wildlife conservation. This 2 hour trip left a huge impression on our 8 year old son and we hope it will inspire him for his future, as it once did for us. Thanks to all the staff and guides who made this experience unforgettable!

Definitely the best marine trip organisation. The only one with such an scientific, ecological and active role to support all species. Everything perfectly organised to a point exceeding all expectations.

Pay attention to whale season. If it isn’t whale season you aren’t going to see whales. It’s a 2.5 hour bus ride from Cape Town one way. The water has an average tide of 2.3 meters so if your easily sea sick this isn’t for you. Staff was nice, if it were what season this would be totally worth it. But I didn’t see the value if it isn’t whale season!

Booked this trip last minute as we had a few spare days in Cape Town. Pick up was easy and the mini bus was clean and comfortable luckily there were only 5 of us this day so plenty of room for all. Our driver was friendly and helpful. On arrival we were greeted by our guide and given a hot drink and cake. We then had a briefing on what to expect and H&S. Everyone had a life jacket and coat, just in case! On this occasion neither was needed! We then boarded the boat and headed out. The guide was quite clear that we may not see any of the big 5 but we did see all of them even if the whale sighting was brief. We were out on the water for just over two and a half hours. As well as our guide there was a marine biologist on board. We choose Marine Dynamics as they put a lot back into marine conservation and have a sea life sanctuary to help injured animals. After the boat was back on land we went back for hot soup and rolls, which was most welcome. Unfortunately I did feel a bit queasy on the trip even with sea sickness tablets as the swell was quite high but all of the staff on board did their best to help us. Overall a great trip and would recommend this company without hesitation, well worth it.

We were picked up from our hotel right on time. After arriving at the destination we donned the life jackets and proceeded to the boat. We saw so many animals and were amazed by the scenic views from out on the water. All of the staff we came in contact with were so friendly and professional.id definitely do this tour again if I’m ever back in Cape Town.

If travelling from Cape Town it is a long day, two hours there and the same back. However the nature you see makes it worth it

We saw all big5 :) Lucky I took motion sickness pills though, as it was quite a bumpy ride. Worth the stuggle, be prepared though for rough waters. Was absolutely breathtaking to see thousands of dolfins around you 🥰

The day was well organised from pick up at the hotel to the time on the boat. Staff were welcoming and informative and we were fortunate to see all of the marine life mentioned in the programme including whales which are not normally seen in early December. Beautiful scenery en route and a fantastic time out on the water. Excellent trip.

Utterly brilliant tour - despite somewhat difficult seas!! Long drive in minivan from city - a little uncomfortable. Staff were all awesome. A snack and safety briefing then out to the boat. The day I went the sea was unforgiving - blowing a gale with very difficult sea conditions. The boat took off through the surf like a bucking bronco - which wasn't for everyone. The team on the boat were fab - informative, careful and always helping the guests. As with all these things, nature doesn't always play ball, and the sea conditions meant we could not safely go where some of the animals were, which was a pity, and the swell/lumpy sea meant actually spotting things was difficult. I wanted brilliant photos, and I could not get these, So for me a disappointment, however the trip was great and on any other day would have been perfect.

Incredible experience! As someone who loves whales and has not had the opportunity to see them before, I was over joyed to have the opportunity to see them. We were given plenty of time to view the animals the boat, and the boar was moved to accommodate the best view and all those on the boat. We were also lucky enough to see all 5, the guide was knowledgeable and friendly and the team onboard were professional and experienced. Well organised and stunning location.

The staff were all very friendly and knowledgeable. However, I recommend that you read the fine print since pick up at the hotel was much earlier than what was on the website. The driver picked me up at 4:55 am. I thought it was a 9 am departure. Because of my jet lag and time difference, I wouldn’t have booked a trip this early.

A 04.30 pickup from our Cape Town accommodation was worth it, for the wildlife we saw, Marine Dynamics' professionalism, and a late afternoon return to Cape Town. (I'd booked us on the 1st trip of the day.) The drive took almost 3 hours, and seeing more of South Africa's countryside, small towns and coastline was a bonus. Arriving at MD's base in Gansbaai, we had time for complimentary tea/coffees/ht chocolate and biscuits, and an introductory video - what to expect, safety, etc. Then, life vests on and ponchos too. Seating on the boat was comfy - padded seats formed the lids of lockers, in which we put our backpacks, spare clothing, etc. Very useful. Hold onto the boat's rails for safety. Within 10mins of leaving the jetty, we were watching a mother Right Whale with her calf. Frankly I'd have counted the whole day a success just for this. Everyone on board had lots of opportunity for a clear view, with the crew clearly focussed on our safety, and respect for the animals, throughout. After 15min, we moved on...and 10mins later, were watching 2 more Right Whales. Wonderful. From there, off to watch 1,000s of fur seals as they basked on rocks and swam near the boat, dozens of penguins, a Copper shark...and a wet-suited poacher, probably illegally taking abalones from the sea floor of this marine sanctuary - the boat had to change course to avoid running him over! Back on dry land, we relaxed again in the huge MD cafe/bar/seating/shop area, with complimentary home made soup with bread rolls. Spot-on. We'd originally booked this trip for 2 days earlier, but it was postponed due to the poor sea state. For this reason, we always book marine trips at the start of holidays, so we have "back up" days. Also, do dress up warm, as it's usually colder at sea than on land. Eg: knitted bobble hats, not baseball caps. The latter blow off in the wind! While we didn't see all of the "big 5" on fhis trip, (no dolphins), everyone agreed that it had been a huge success. The MD team, both on shore and aboard, were friendly, helpful and full of knowledge and enthusiasm for what they do. Thanks guys. And we visited the local penguin sanctuary too, which was so interesting. Finally, if you go on this, or other similar trips, do ask questions of the wildlife officers. While they do give commentary and info, they k ow so much additional detail, which can really add to the experience. Enjoy!

Had a great day on this marine safari! Saw whales, penguins, seals and sharks. Driver was quick to pick us up and deliver us to the boat. Yes, the drive from Cape Town was 2 1/2 hours, but we think the safari was worth the drive. The soup and bread served after the safari was delicious and filling. Thanks for a wonderful time!

Such a fun experience! Very lucky to see some baby whales with their moms! Maybe not for those that get easily sea sick.

Great trip, a very early start but worth it to see the whales! Was disappointed not to see any sharks or dolphins, but that's completely the luck of the trip and the whales made it all worthwhile! Be mindful when selecting the time of your trip, I picked the 7am start thinking I'd be picked up around then, but that's the start time of the boat and actually got picked up at 4am from Capetown! (Maybe this was my stupidity lol but I do think the booking could have been more clear) The crew were really knowledgeable and alert to the wildlife around them, they were patient when we had a sighting and allowed us time to watch and observe. So glad I did this trip!

Well organised transport from Cape Town. Brilliant trip lucky enough to see 5 whales and a mum and infant very close. Also shark penguins and seals. It’s great this is supporting marine research and care for penguins.

Early start to get away early from boat landing. Driver was amazing and friendly, stopped for breakfast and toilet break there and back. Cake and coffee awaits on your arrival before getting on boat. We'll organised and informative. Lots of opportunity's to take pictures and see the marine wildlife. On arrival back soup and roll was a nice surprise. We were returned to Capetown mid afternoon.

What fun! All the crew was so knowledgeable about all the marine life! We had an incredible experience! If you see the big 5, great! If you don’t see the big 5, great! The experience is still worth it! Reconnect with the childlike wonder within you and join this tour!

This was an enjoyable outing. Great day to be on the water and enjoyed seeing the Southern Right Whales. The drive from the hotel was much longer than expected and it was hard to hear the guides on the boat much of the time. I would have preferred to have skipped cage diving boat.

The journey can be long, be prepared. The actual experience once you get to site is AMAZING. All staff are helpful and will assist in getting a better view of the whales. The boat crew were exceptional 👌. Please go the whales need tourist money to keep them safe and well protected.

Very well organized!! The boat trip is quite an experience and the drive to the place has beautifully landscape. Highly recommended!

A dream come true.😊 I spent at least 6 hours researching the best tour operator to realise my hope to see a larger whale. I've been to Iceland and Norway and only managed to see a whale in the far distance. I'm so glad I selected this operator. They were easy to contact and communicate my wishes and needs. The driver picked us up from our hotel and drove to and from the harbour. Ashton was excellent, he was informative, he stopped for our restbreaks and to take a photo of Cape-Town from a great vantage points. We were taken to the meeting place which had a well stocked shop, restaurant, bar and restrooms. We had coffee and muffin during the briefing and a much welcomed bowl of hot soup and bread after our boat ride. This trip surpassed everything I expected. We saw all 5 of the Marine 5 creatures during the trip. A humpback whale, 2 sharks, a few penguins, some dolphins and lots of seals. We even saw a shy albatross. Laticia was fabulous on the microphone, I found out a few days later she was training! I would never have guessed. The staff, including the very knowledgeable biologist were extremely helpful. Constantly checking we were all ok. Gerhard & Admire sweets and ginger to help settle anyone feeling sea sick. An added bonus was a stop off at their rehabilitate centre for the endangered African penguins. All in all a very well organized and professional set up. MOST DEFINITELY worth participating in this activity if you are staying near or around the area. It would have been even better if we'd seen a whale tail flap or breaching. I was quite jealous that just 3 days later this happened. NB I started following Marine Dynamics before my trip on Facebook and its amazing what is seen during the trips.

Had an amazing whale watching trip with Marine Dynamics today! The crew was friendly, professional, and made the whole experience unforgettable. Highly recommend!

Excellent service and very friendly staff. So helpful to make our experience memorable. Would recommend to anyone who is thinking of going.

The experience is located 2.5hrs drive from Cape Town. The tour lasts 2.5hrs. Great organisation, brilliant staff. Great day out.

We had a 720 am pick up in Cape Town and didn't arrive until 945 for the boat ride. Yet, it was a pleasant ride. Our driver stopped along the way, pointed some things out and made the time fly by. He was even better on the ride back, stopping at view points for is to take photos. As for the boat trip. You're lucky if you see a whale. Well, we did. It breached a couple times and put on a show for us, flapping its flippers. Highly recommend the entire day.

A great day made special with the magic delivered by nature. We got to see a Whale, shark, seals, sun fish and penguins. The crew were very helpful and the morning coffee and muffin set us up for the day. Soup at the end of the trip was a welcome warmer.

It was insane! We saw humpback whales (multiple) humpback dolphins, seals and penuins. What a fabulous experience! It's a long drive to the bay but completely worth it.

A great adventure for us and the kids. Two of my kids were Seasick and the staff was Bert caring and making sure they were ok. The experience was magical! Two whales up close❤️!!! Staff was extremely professional, maling sure everybody was ok since the sea was rough and the waves high! Never fellt unsafe!! Would book again in a minute! A big thank you to everyone, making our S-A trip unforgettable❤️❤️

We were lucky enough to see all of the big 5 up close! The tour guides had a very good eye and were really welcoming and informative, including our bus driver. I felt the time we stayed with each species was ideal to take in the sight but also leave enough time to find more! The stop at the penguin sanctuary was also a nice touch. You get the feeling that the crew are really passionate about what they do and it’s infectious. Special mention for the common dolphin pod which will stay with us forever. Thank you

This was a great experience. The biologists were very informative & crew very helpful. Sea was rough today - 3m swell (rescheduled from yesterday which was too rough - 4m swell). Saw a pod of humpback whales, African penguins, fur seals & a couple of copper sharks. Disappointed we didn’t see dolphins, but that’s nature. The onboard photographer did a good job capturing fantastic images from a pitching boat. It’s quite a journey from Cape Town to Gansbaai, 2-1/2 hour drive each way, but driver was bang on time at our hotel. The team do great conservation work so glad we helped a worthy cause.

Lovely trip! Our driver was great and the tour was amazing. Love how they are teaching about conservation and trying to protect our oceans and the penguins. Would 100% do this tour again!

The boat trip was great & was saw 3 out of the big 5. The sfaff & hospitality was excellent, as was the soup. The bus ride was a little long, but tolerable. I would recommend this company. A 4.5 * if it were possible.

Everything went fine the weather was fine we saw whales ..penguins ..many seals ..sharks ..missed the dolphins but the crew was really amazing very informative and everything went so well at the sea

Prompt, efficient and safe transportation to the port area and a very knowledgeable and friendly staff awaiting there to go in search of the marine big 5! We found 4 including the first Southern Right Whale sighting of the season!

Wonderful trip. Early morning from cape town but it was all worth it. Only minus was that the food afterwards was a bit small for the long day.

The first thing anyone thinking of taking this trip should know is that the depart time is the time of the boat, not the pickup time. We booked this thinking we’d have a 10am pick up from Cape Town, not the 5.30am pick up we did have. I think if we’d known this we probably wouldn’t have done this tour. To be fair the the company, we knew when booking this trip that January wasn’t really the best time to see whales. They were upfront about the probability and what we might see. The crew were all fantastic, really knowledgeable and keen to share this. The long mini bus journey goes through some nice countryside and I liked what I saw of Hermanus. As we were a smaller group, they used a smaller boat which did bang down on the big waves. I don’t think it is an experience for those of a nervous predisposition! All in, no whales seen, just seals and some small sharks being fed by another vessel. We knew we were taking our chances re seeing whales so I can’t say it was a waste of money. I wouldn’t do it again as I hate small boats but I imagine at a different time of year ..or you get lucky.. this would be a really magical experience. And again, a big thank you to the excellent company who delivered this.

Great team with emphasis on Safety. My most memorable part will be the encounter with the seals and the penguins. # LOVED IT

These guys are real pros! They picked me up at Hout Bay when they said they would, had life jackets and rain coats and explained everything real well, including their conservation efforts helping hurt or sick birds. When I told them I'm learning to photograph wildlife, they picked me a good spot on the top deck and two guys helped me spot birds and marine life so I could snap quickly and learn the names of everything. They even had warm soup and bread afterwards to warm us up! It was early, but well worth it. Such a wonderful day!

The pick up from our hotel was on time and smooth. The drive along the coast was beautiful. The staff at the harbor explained everything and made sure everyone was safe before leaving. The boat ride was amazing. The water was beautiful. We saw 2 species of dolphin, including a huge pack that swam alongside the boat. We saw some small sharks, many, many seals, and a couple penguins. The staff were very knowledgeable and helpful and friendly and made sure everyone knew where to look and why the boat was going in certain directions, slowing down, stopping, etc. Conservation is the priority, which makes for the best tour. When back at the harbor we had delicious soup and bread, then went to the penguin sanctuary nearby before heading back.

Tour was cancelled 10 min to collection time due to bad weather. Now I understand yes if the weather is bad its for my own safety but the way the communication was handled and how this was done last minute when i was just waiting to be picked up for the trip. If weather was bad their is forecast reports this could have been communicated earlier to allow a person to make other plans. Honestly, I was very dissappointed.