Whale Watching in Knysna - Knysna Hollow Menu

Whale Watching in Knysna

Posted on June 29, 2023
Witness Whales in Their Natural Habitat in Knysna

Whale watching is an incredible experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime; a chance to see some of the most majestic creatures on earth in their natural habitat. A great place to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat in South Africa is Knysna, a beloved town located along the Garden Route. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about whale watching in Knysna – from the best time to visit, what to wear, the different types of whales you can spot, and much more.

Whale Watching Season

From June to November each year, the Knysna Heads becomes a hotspot for Humpback and Southern Right whales migrating across the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. These gentle giants come from the cold feeding grounds of Antarctica to mate and give birth along the Southern African coastline. As you watch these magnificent creatures swim past our coastline, you’ll be amazed by their complex mating rituals – from blowing and breaching to spyhopping and tail slapping. Keep your eyes peeled for adorable mother-calf pairs who often spend weeks in the protective waters of Buffalo Bay. The Bryde’s Whale is often seen in smaller groups and can be more elusive but are still a fascinating sight to behold.

What to Expect on a Whale Watching Trip

Ocean Odyssey are the only close encounter whale watching permit holders in the greater Knysna area. From the western side of the Robberg Peninsula to Gericke’s Point in Sedgefield, their boats have the privilege of approaching within 50m of these majestic creatures – an experience that requires great skill and understanding of these intelligent mammals. These whale watching tours in Knysna typically last for 1 – 2 hours, during which you might witness the whales breaching, tail slapping, or blowing water into the air. You may also catch a glimpse of dolphins, seals, and various bird species. On every trip, there is a dedicated whale spotter on board to help the highly experienced skipper locate sightings. The team is committed to providing a safe and unforgettable whale watching experience to all their guests. Weather and sea conditions permitting, their trips depart 3 times daily.

Tips for Your Whale Watching Experience

To make the most of your whale watching experience in Knysna, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, dress warmly! Even though the weather in Knysna is generally warm, it can still get chilly out on the ocean. Take a motion sickness tablet if you are prone to sea sickness, and don’t forget your camera! Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

What Else to Do in Knysna

While you’re in Knysna, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Visit the Knysna Heads, take a walk through the Knysna Forest – one of the few remaining indigenous forests in South Africa, stroll through the Knysna Waterfront, visit a wildlife park or take a drive out one of the region’s wine farms for a day of wine tasting.

Whale watching in Knysna is a must-do experience; both awe-inspiring and breathtaking. If you’re staying at Knysna Hollow Country Estate, simply stop in at reception to arrange a whale watching trip with a member of our team. If you’d like to learn more about the various things to do in Knysna, navigate to our activities page, or simply drop us a line on reservations@knysnahollow.co.za.

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