Top 5 Dolphin Watching Tours in South Africa

1.Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 807 reviews · 2 hours · from $98Our pick

Two-hour Hermanus whale-watching catamaran with a whale specialist guide, close dolphin action, and onboard refreshments near South Africa’s coast

“What a beautiful experience: From the expert introduction to Hermanus' whales by Ken, to the explanations of Jacques and the Crew taking care of us and making sure to keep watching out for marine life, this tour was great. Not only did we find ourselves in the middle of a large school of dolphins and did spot a whale while it was already end of season. I also felt the Crew did run the tour with expertise, ensuring to not chase the animals but give them space to approach us.”

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2.Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 687 reviews · from $185Top rated

Slow, small-group cruise from Port Elizabeth to see humpback whales, dolphins, and endangered African penguins at St. Croix Island.

“Jake and his crew shared their expert knowledge of local marine wildlife and went out of their way to make our voyage a memorable one. The highlight of the trip was spotting a mother and baby humpback whale and sailing with the dolphins. Read more”

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3.Dolphin & Ocean Wildlife Kayaking Adventure ⚓️

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 57 reviews · 2 hours · from $37Best value

Kayak Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard in 2 hours, spot dolphins, penguins, seals and possible whales, then unwind in the garden with smoothies.

“An absolute vibe from start to finish! The guides were absolute legends, kept the energy high, had us laughing the whole time and ended up hanging out afterwards with a matcha and bagel. Obviously the views of Cape town from the water are unreal but getting to see dolphins and even some whales on this particular outing was extra special. Honestly, couldn't recommend it enough.”

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4.Durban: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 45 reviews · 2 hours · from $102

Two-hour Durban whale watching on the Indian Ocean for humpbacks, dolphins, and more, with expert guides from Wilson’s Wharf.

“Lovely boat, saw nothing closer to shorw but as soon as our guide went further out to shore we saw at least six whales...mother and baby humpback and male and female pairs. Guide very respectful od not getting too close to the whales but still allowing us the best view and giving us plenty of photo opportunities. He also shared his videos with us at the end of the tour. No dolphins but the whales were amazing.”

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5.Dolphin and Marine Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 45 reviews · 1h 30m · from $46

Spot dolphins, sharks, and Cape fur seals off Robberg Peninsula on a 90-minute boat tour from Plettenberg Bay.

“It was enjoyable and lots of fun. The guides were informative. However we didn’t think it was suitable for tiny babies and small children. It is not a Disneyland ride!”

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