Knysna Close Encounter Whale Watching

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.