1. Warm, Layered Clothing

Out on the water, things can get nippy – especially during the South African winter. Your outfit should say “I came to see whales, not freeze quietly in the corner.”

Wear:

• A thermal base layer
• A fleece or insulated jumper
• A windproof/waterproof outer layer
• Beanie and gloves (yes, even in Africa)

Layers let you adapt as the boat moves from sunshine to sea spray in seconds.

2. Non-Slip Footwear

Boat decks + ocean spray = impromptu skating rink. Rubber-soled shoes with grip are a must. Think trainers, walking shoes, or boat shoes. Leave the heels and flip-flops at home unless you fancy testing your balance on live television (our videographer captures everything).

3. Sun Protection

Even in winter, UV rays are a real factor – especially at sea where the sunlight reflects off the water.

Bring:

• A hat or cap that won’t fly away
• Polarised sunglasses (This also helps for the glare.)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

Top tip: Apply your sunscreen before boarding, or risk trying to open a slippery lens cap with greasy hands.

4. Camera or Binoculars

When it comes to capturing your experience, you have the following options at your disposal: Your smart phone or bringing along a camera with a good zoom lens or action mode. Alternatively, you could simply sit back, enjoy the experience and let our onboard videographer do the honours.

Don’t forget your binoculars, especially for spotting distant blows or birds!

5. Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is key, especially if the ocean has you feeling a bit green. Choose a bottle with a secure lid – spills and swells go hand in hand.

6. Snacks

SRC offers light refreshments, but if you get peckish at sea (who doesn’t?), pack a simple snack. Granola bars, trail mix, or crackers work well. Just skip the bananas. (This is an old sailor superstition – look it up if you’re curious…)

7. Motion Sickness Remedies

Our custom-built catamaran is designed for stability, but if you’re prone to seasickness, come prepared.

8. Wet Wipes Or Tissues

From salty spray to snack fingers, a little cleanup goes a long way.

9. Small Backpack Or Dry Bag

Bring something compact and waterproof to stash your gear. Leave bulky bags at home – you’ll want room to move when someone yells, “There she blows!”

• Drones: Not allowed on board. They stress the whales, and no one wants to be that tourist.
• Umbrellas: Umbrellas at sea aren’t a thing, and our cosy cabin and sheltered viewing deck will do perfectly well for keeping your warm and dry.

Hermanus whale watching season 2025 runs from June to early December, with August to October being the peak. This is when Southern Right whales are especially active – breaching, spy-hopping, tail-slapping, and sometimes swimming right up to the boat.

Thanks to SRC’s special marine permits and low-impact approach, we’re able to get respectfully close without disturbing the whales, offering one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in South Africa.

Besides having front-row seats to Hermanus whale watching season 2025, SRC brings 20+ years of experience, a top-notch crew, and a strong “observe, don’t disturb” ethos to every outing.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert guides who know their fins
• A custom-built, eco-conscious catamaran with open and sheltered viewing decks
• Onboard videography so you can be in the moment without missing the moment
• A commitment to marine conservation and guest comfort

In short: We’re passionate about whales, and even more passionate about giving you a world-class experience watching them.

• Arrive early: Check-in, grab your seat, breathe in the sea air.
• Check the forecast: Whale-watching is weather-dependent, but we’ll let you know if nature has other plans.
• Book in advance: Weekends and school holidays fill up fast during peak Hermanus whale watching season 2025.

See you on deck!