September is widely regarded as one of the best months for whale watching in Hermanus, offering incredible sightings of Southern Right Whales and some of the most exciting whale behaviour of the season.

If you’re planning a whale watching trip and wondering whether September is the right time to visit Hermanus, the short answer is yes.

September sits right in the heart of whale season, when Walker Bay is alive with Southern Right Whales that have travelled thousands of kilometres from the Southern Ocean to our sheltered coastal waters..

During this time, sightings are frequent, the weather begins to warm, and visitors often witness unforgettable displays of breaching, tail slapping and curious calves exploring their surroundings.

If you’ve also been wondering whether it’s better to book a morning or afternoon trip, or when whales are most active, here’s everything you need to know.

Why September is one of the Peak Whale Watching Months

Whale season in Hermanus generally runs from June until early December, but September is considered one of the very best months to visit.

By September, large numbers of Southern Right Whales have arrived in Walker Bay. Mothers are caring for their young calves while other unaccompanied adult whales continue to roam the coastline, at times forming mating groups – creating excellent opportunities for sightings.

During the annual aerial survey, Walker Bay consistently ranks as the highest area along the SA coastline at this time of year for numbers of Southern Right Whales close to shore, making both land-based and boat-based whale watching particularly rewarding.

For visitors hoping to tick whale watching off their bucket list, September offers an excellent balance of whale activity, pleasant weather and consistent sightings.

2025 ANNUAL SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALE SURVEY

Whats the best time of day?

One of the questions we hear most often is: “Should I book a morning or afternoon whale watching tour?“. In jest, we often respond “the best time to see the whales is low tide, – then they stick out more!” – that however, is obviously just a joke!

Southern Right Whales can be seen throughout the day, and there isn’t any consistency that they are more active during the morning or afternoon.

Instead, whale behaviour is influenced by a range of natural factors including weather conditions, sea state and simply the unpredictable nature of wild animals.

Every trip is different, which is part of what makes whale watching so exciting.

The most important advice is simple: book the time that works best for you- ideally, keep some flexibility if a trip is cancelled and you need to reschedule.

When are conditions best for whale watching?

While the whales can appear at any time of day, sea conditions often play a role in the overall experience.

A sudden weather change can at times put a ‘spring in their step’, however, calmer seas can make it easier to spot whales and the overall experience – depending on your sea legs!

That said, weather conditions change daily along the Cape coast, and our experienced skippers carefully assess the conditions before every departure to ensure guests enjoy the safest and best possible experience.

No matter what time you choose, every trip offers the opportunity to witness these incredible marine mammals in their natural environment.

What Whale Behaviour Might You See?

Depending on the day, visitors may witness:

• Powerful breaching- as whales launch themselves clear of the water.
• Spy-hopping, where whales lift their heads above the surface to look around.
• Lob tailing and flipper slapping.
• Curious whales approaching the boat.

Since no two whale watching trips are ever the same, every outing offers a unique experience.
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Experience Peak Whale Watching in Hermanus

There’s a reason visitors from around the world travel to Hermanus each September.

Southern Right Whales are one of the best whale species to watch, – surface active, along the coastline of Hermanus in abundance at this time of year, and quite often very curious by nature – coming to do some people watching, while we do whale watching! Coupled with views of Walker bay, Klienriver mountains as the backdrop, it is truly something you’ll have embedded in your mind for a lifetime.

If you’re planning to visit during September, we’d love to welcome you aboard for an unforgettable whale watching adventure.

To find out more or book your whale watching experience, contact Southern Right Charters on mobile: +27 (0)82 353 0550 or WhatsApp: +27 (0)82 353 0550.

FAQs

Is September the best month for whale watching in Hermanus?

September is widely considered one of the best months for whale watching in Hermanus, with large numbers of Southern Right Whales and calves found in the sheltered waters of Walker Bay.

What time of day is best for whale watching in Hermanus?

Whales can be active throughout the day, and there is no consistently “best” time to see them. Both morning and afternoon whale watching tours regularly enjoy excellent sightings.

Are whales more active in the morning or afternoon?

Whale behaviour depends on natural factors rather than the time of day. Every trip offers unique opportunities to observe breaching, spy-hopping and other fascinating behaviours.

What whales can you see in Hermanus during September?

Southern Right Whales are the main attraction during September. Visitors may also spot Humpback Whales migrating through the area and Bryde’s Whales, which are resident year-round.

Should I book my whale watching trip in advance?

Yes. September is one of the busiest months of the season, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred departure time.