A Major Migration
When the sun is setting over the desolate landscape of Antarctica, various whale populations feeding in these icy waters, senses that it is time for their migration up north to the warmer waters of their breeding grounds. Often traveling a distance of nearly 5 000 kilometers, the Humpback whale is known as the mammal with the longest migratory route on earth. Thus during the winter months in the southern hemisphere, the South African coastline welcomes these visitors from the south as the ocean is bringing a plethora of possibilities to have at least a peek into the lives of these magnificent giants of the ocean. Often seen breaching, spy-hopping or lob-tailing just off our shores.
The Southern Right Whale
According to folklore, Southern Right whale inherited its name from times when whales were still hunted, as being the right whale to catch due to their lack of speed and the fact that they float when killed. This brutal slaughter of these brilliant mammals has long ago been stopped, yet the name still remained. Southern right whales are found around the Cape south coast between the wintery months of July and August and is when the majority of them are calving. This is when the privilege of being in the presence of the mystical mammals of the deep is celebrated with the Whale Festival, an annual event held in the coastal village, Hermanus
Having a Whale of a Time in Hermanus
This eco-marine festival usually takes place the last weekend in September and offers visitors from all over the world the opportunity to explore and appreciate the marine mammals. Even though there is plenty of opportunities to explore them from the shore, many whale watching operators take tourists on boat cruises to explore these giants from an even closer vantage point, albeit still a safe distance. No wonder that the town was recently recognized by The Telegraph as being one of the best spots globally, to immerse yourself in whale watching. For three days the town is bursting with festivities, from the Eco-Marine Tent which provides a plethora of entertainment and information to food stalls, craft markets and a general passion to preserve the ocean wildlife.
Whales All Year Round
The celebration of the arrival of the Southern Right whale is however not only celebrated during these three days nor only in Hermanus, but in fact, for much longer whales can be explored via whale cruises and ocean safaris. Tour operators are based in many coastal villages on the South African shoreline and they are keen on not only showing off the local natural wonders but also to educate those interested in the excitement of being close to them. Whale watching is a great influencer in the tourism industry all the way from Doringbaai up on the West Coast around the peninsula to the East Coast and St Lucia. Even though the Southern Right whale is migratory, the coastline is all year round alive with the magnificent presence of Humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, Orcas and dolphins which can be explored via trips, cruises and safaris. A vast number of these trips and tours are available and we gladly assist in finding a reputable company who are caring about both sharing these giants of the big blue as well as conserving their environment. Contact us for an unforgettable whale experience.