Knysna Close Encounter Whale Watching

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Activity Snapshot

Fitness level: Everybody welcome
Duration: 2 hrs
Spoken languages: English, Afrikaans
Minimum age: From 3 years-old and up
Cancellation policy: flexible More info

Activity description

Come aboard our tour boat and experience the whales of the South African coast up close! Ocean Odyssey has an official whale-watching permit holder, allowing us to approach whales to within 50m; then, if the whale chooses to come even closer, they are welcome to do so. 

This tour will make several stops to observe the diverse wildlife of the coast, from whales, dolphins and sharks, to seals and an array of seabirds who migrate here seasonally. 

On the way, there will also be other interesting features, such as shipwrecks, and information related to culture and geology, which we will communicate to you along the way.

Our marine life observation will evolve as we navigate the waters. In the shallower parts, our most specific attention will be paid to the coast's many humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins - in fact, we find social pods of dolphins on more than 80% of our cruises year-round.

In the deepwater, we will find different species. Common dolphins and Bryde’s whales are among them. The Bryde’s whale is a Knysna local, and we spot them on approximately 70% of cruises year-round. Common dolphins are so-called not only because they can be found in nearly ever ocean, but also because they are known for travelling in large pods - in Knysna, we have spotted pods of over 10 000 of them, swimming along by our boat.

During whale season, we have regular sightings of Southern Right whales and Humpback whales. Both species travel to South African waters for their breeding season. During peak whale season we spot whales on 95% of cruises.

With a maximum of 25 passengers on board, this is a pleasant and personal cruise into the world of these cetaceans. 

Activity requirements

Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before the start of the activity.

Special terms

Food and drinks (other than water) are not permitted aboard the boat.

Included
  • Bottle of water
  • Safety equipment (life jacket)
Excluded
  • Food
Do not forget to bring
  • Sun cream
  • Hat
  • Windbreaker
  • Camera
100% secure payments
by credit card or Paypal
Meeting point
Ocean Odyssey Charters & Retail store TH 22, Long street Thesen Harbour Town Thesen Island Knysna Get directions

Cancellation policy

Cancellation 4 days or more prior to the agreed activity date
You will be automatically refunded for the full amount for the activity
4 days
Cancellation between 48 and 96 hours prior to the agreed activity date
You are entitled to a 50% refund
48 hrs
Cancellation 48 hours or later prior to the agreed activity date
No refund will be possible
Weather Guarantee
Regardless of the date, if the activity is cancelled due to bad weather conditions, you will be offered a refund or the chance to reschedule