# Whale Watching in Hermanus, South Africa: A Marvelous Adventure
## Overview
Whale watching in South Africa ranks among the top experiences worldwide. From June to November, Southern Right Whales (*Eubalaena australis*) congregate along South Africa’s southern coast to mate and give birth. The coastal town of Hermanus in the Western Cape is a renowned spot to witness this awe-inspiring natural event. Whale watching in Hermanus is a memorable experience that attracts global visitors.
## Southern Right Whale Migration in South Africa
During the austral summer (December through May), Southern Right Whales feed on krill in the polar waters of the Southern Hemisphere. In winter (early June through November), they migrate to the shallow coastal regions of Southern Africa, South America, and Australia. This period is the peak whale-watching season in Hermanus.
In Hermanus, male whales arrive in June, followed by females coming to mate in the Cape’s coastal waters. Pregnant females are the last to arrive and leave, departing only once their calves are strong enough to journey back to Antarctic waters to feed on krill.
## Top Whale-Watching Spots in Hermanus
Hermanus boasts some of the finest land-based whale-watching opportunities. From the cliffs that overlook Walker Bay, visitors can watch whales or join a boat tour to learn about their behaviors.
### Whale Behaviors to Observe
While watching whales in Walker Bay, you might see intriguing behaviors like:
– **Spy-hopping**: Whales poking their heads out of the water to look around.
– **Lobtailing**: Whales slapping the water with their tails.
– **Breaching**: Whales propelling their bodies out of the water.
If you’re especially lucky, you might even witness a whale giving birth.
## Other Marine Wildlife in Hermanus
Aside from Southern Right Whales, visitors may see Humpback and Bryde’s whales, common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Cape Fur seals, and various marine birds like African black oystercatchers and African penguins. Orcas have also become more frequent along the South African coast. Watch the rocky shore for Clawless Cape otters foraging among the kelp.
## Distinguishing Southern Right Whales from Humpback Whales
Southern Right Whales are recognizable by their callosities (rough, bulging white patches), a V-shaped blow, and the absence of a dorsal fin. Conversely, Humpback Whales have a small dorsal fin and long pectoral fins.
## White Whales
Interestingly, around 5% of Southern Right Whales are born white due to a condition called grey morphism. These white calves are not albino and will darken as they age.
## Whale-Watching Tours from Hermanus
### Land-Based Whale Watching
For those prone to seasickness, land-based whale watching is a great alternative. In Hermanus, whales come near the shore, making it possible to observe them from various coastal points. A notable location is Bientang’s Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar, where you can enjoy lunch while watching whales.
The Whale Crier of Hermanus signals whale sightings by blowing a kelp horn along the cliff top. Visitors can walk the 7.5-mile clifftop path to spot whales or join a land-based whale-watching tour that includes multiple viewing points and a visit to the Whale House Museum.
### Boat-Based Whale Watching
Hermanus also offers several boat-based whale-watching tours. Popular operators include:
– **Hermanus Whale Watchers**: This tour features a 36-seater catamaran with eco-friendly engines that minimize underwater noise. The boat is