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The Inside Guide

Knysna Whale Watching - Close Encounter (June - Nov)

Knysna

Activity Description

Ocean Odyssey is Knysna’s only official whale watching permit holder, allowing us to approach whales to within 50m; if the whale chooses to come closer, we don’t have to move away. With a maximum of 25 passengers on board, personal service is guaranteed.

During the tour, stops are made to watch whales, dolphins, sharks, and seals, as well as any seabirds that may be encountered. Other interesting features pointed out to clients include cultural facts, shipwrecks, geology, bird colonies, and anecdotal information.

Inshore we’re always on the lookout for Humpback dolphins and Bottlenose dolphins. We see dolphins on 80% of cruises year around.

In the deepwater, we’re in search of common dolphins and Bryde’s whales. The Bryde’s whale is resident in Knysna, and sighted on approximately 70% of cruises year-round. Common dolphins are known for their large group sizes, in Knysna the largest group we’ve seen during a cruise was approximately 10,000 individuals.

During whale season, we have regular sightings of Southern Right whales and Humpback whales. Both species travel to South African waters for their breeding season. During peak whale season we spot whales on 95% of cruises.

Arrangements

Duration2 hours
WhenFrom June to November
WhereOcean Odyssey Charters & Retail store TH 22, Long street Thesen Harbour Town Thesen Island Knysna GPS Directions to our offices for check-in on Thesen Island, Knysna. From George direction: drive into Knysna on N2. Turn right at the traffic lights onto Waterfront drive. Follow the road until the second set of traffic lights, turn right into Long Street,Travel down Long street, over the white little bridge and make your way on to Thesen Island. Just before you reach the traffic circle at the end of Long st our shop is located on the left hand side (Opposite The Time Machine and next to Diana Loon Boutique) From Plettenberg Bay direction: Drive into Knysna on N2, At the third set of traffic lights, go Left into Waterfront Drive, at the next set of traffic lights, turn left into Long Street, Travel down Long street, over the white little bridge and make your way on to Thesen Island. Just before you reach the traffic circle at the end of Long st our shop is located on the left hand side (Opposite The Time Machine and next to Diana Loon Boutique) GUESTS WILL CHECK IN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE AT OUR RECEPTION, WHERE THEY ARE REQUIRED TO SIGN THE INDEMNITY FORM.
WeatherAll trips through the Knysna Heads and out to sea are dependent on weather and sea conditions. Only the skipper is able to make a decision whether the cruise can depart. This decision is made according to wind direction and speed, sea swell and tide. This decision can only be made on the day of the cruise.
What to WearWind breaker or jumper
Things to BringCamera
Guests or SpectatorsOnly paid guests on board. COVID-19 - Masks are compulsory- Guests experiencing symptoms or show high temperatures will not be allowed to proceed with the activity.

Requirements

Minimum Age3 years
Minimum Height0.0 m
Maximum Height0.0 m
Fitness LevelNo Fitness Requirement
QualificationsNot Applicable
Maximum Weight0.0 kg
CertificationNone Required
Experience LevelNo Experience Requirement

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

Bottle of water
Life Jacket

ExclusionsFood and other beverages (Besides bottled water) is not allowed on this tour.

Notes

Minimum of 4 guests required to run this trip.
Trip duration is 1½ – 2 hours, depending on conditions.
Children welcome, no experience necessary.
COVID-19 – Masks are compulsory- Guests experiencing symptoms or show high temperatures will not be allowed to proceed with the activity.
GUESTS WILL CHECK IN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE AT OUR RECEPTION, WHERE THEY ARE REQUIRED TO SIGN THE INDEMNITY FORM.

Customer Reviews

We had a great whale watching tour. We shared the boat with another couple. They explained many things and helped us to take good pictures. A really good choice to for a whale watching tour in Knysna. - Lars Koehler

10/10. One of the most Memorable events of my Honeymoon. We enjoyed every moment with the team. Definitely on my to-do again list for the future Thank you for a wonderful experience Riaan and Linda Uys - Riaan Uys

Whale watching with Ocean Oddysey was an activity that my family thoroughly enjoyed during our vacation in Knysna. We were fortunate to see a few humpback whales on our expedition. And the coastline views from the deep blue waters alone are worth the experience! - Chetna Daya

We absolutely loved our trip and were lucky enough to see 3 groups of hump back whales. The staff are friendly but professional and really know their stuff. Even if you don't see whales, the trip far out yo sea is thrilling. Can't wait for next year - John Hoffmann

This was a very special experience. We saw whales and dolphins! Excellent guides. Enjoyed every moment. Strongly recommended. - Harko Mulder

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