Ocean adventures in Plettenberg Bay deliver fantastic marine encounters, with three standout options worth your time.
The efficient 1.5-hour seal-watching tour at Robberg Nature Reserve is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
For serious wildlife spotting, we love the whale-watching excursions (June-November) – they’re well-organized and consistently deliver sightings of Southern Right and Humpback whales.
The 2-hour speedboat cruise combines the best of both worlds, offering thrills and excellent viewing chances for whales, dolphins, and seals along the dramatic coastline.
Check out these top-rated boat tours in Plettenberg Bay.
Key Points
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Plettenberg Bay offers a variety of boat tours, including seal viewing, whale watching, and dolphin encounters, catering to different interests and budgets.
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The whale-watching cruises provide an opportunity to spot Southern Right and Humpback whales, as well as other marine life, such as dolphins and seals.
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The 2-hour whale watching boat cruise along the Plettenberg Bay coastline is a popular choice, with high chances of sighting whales, dolphins, and seals.
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Dolphin and marine boat tours offer a unique experience, including a James Bond-style landing on Central Beach and the chance to see bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.
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The seal viewing boat trips provide a 1.5-hour tour to observe the Cape Fur Seal colony, with potential sightings of other seabirds and marine life.
5-Hour Seal Viewing Boat Tour in Plettenberg Bay
The 1.5-Hour Seal Viewing Boat Tour in Plettenberg Bay offers an up-close encounter with thousands of seals at the Robberg Nature Reserve.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this small group tour provides personalized attention and educational insights into the local seal colony and ecosystem.
Accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, the tour includes a boat ride, tour photos emailed to you, and bottled water.
Meeting 30 minutes prior to departure, the tour ends back at the starting point.
Priced from $27.78 per person, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible payment options.
Plettenberg Bay: Whale-Watching Cruise
Plettenberg Bay’s whale-watching cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey to spot the majestic Southern Right and Humpback whales that frequent the area’s waters.
Departing from Ocean Blue Adventures, you’ll embark on a guided tour led by knowledgeable guides and have the chance to see other marine life, like inshore dolphins, Cape Fur Seals, and even Great White Sharks.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you’ll receive a safety briefing and life jacket before launch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this whale-watching experience is an excellent value at $54.67 per person.
Just be sure to disclose any medical conditions for safety and avoid prohibited items like smoking and drones.
Read our full review: Plettenberg Bay: Whale-Watching Cruise Review
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Plettenberg Bay: Whale Watching Boat Cruise
A 2-hour whale-watching adventure awaits you along the picturesque Plettenberg Bay coastline.
You’re likely to spot Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales from June to November, as well as dolphins, seals, seabirds, sharks, and more.
The safety-focused speedboat launch takes you on an exciting journey, with knowledgeable guides providing insights throughout the tour.
Included are bottled water, a snack pack, life jacket, and rain jacket, plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
While the overall experience is highly rated, some note confusion about the meeting point.
With limited availability, it’s best to reserve your spot soon.
Read our full review: Plettenberg Bay: Whale Watching Boat Cruise Review
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Plettenberg Bay: Dolphin and Marine Boat Tours
Explore the vibrant marine life of Plettenberg Bay with the Dolphin and Marine Boat Tours.
Starting at just R854 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour offers a thrilling beach launch through the surf to encounter bottlenose and rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.
You’ll also spot shark species and pelagic seabirds, visit the Robberg Peninsula and Cape Fur Seal Colony, and may even glimpse Bryde’s whales and great white sharks.
Conclude your adventure with a James Bond-style landing on Central Beach.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating, this tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with unique wildlife sightings and stunning coastal landscapes.
Read our full review: Plettenberg Bay: Dolphin and Marine Boat Tours Review
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Plettenberg Bay: Seal Viewing Boat Trip
Embark on an exhilarating seal viewing adventure in the picturesque Plettenberg Bay.
The Plettenberg Bay Seal Viewing Boat Trip offers a 1.5-hour journey to observe Cape Fur Seals in their natural habitat. Priced from $27.09 per person, this family-friendly experience departs from the Beacon Island Resort.
You’ll enjoy a guided tour, scenic boat cruise, and the possibility of spotting marine life like cormorants, gannets, whales, and dolphins. Rent waterproof cameras to capture the moment.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an overall 4.6/5 rating, this is an unforgettable way to learn about the coastal wonders of Plettenberg Bay.
Read our full review: Plettenberg Bay: Seal Viewing Boat Trip Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Departure Times for the Boat Tours?
The departure times for the boat tours can vary, so you’ll want to check with the tour operators for the specific schedule. Many offer morning and afternoon options to accommodate different schedules.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on the boat tours. Many tour operators encourage you to pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery while on the water. However, be sure to check with the specific tour company beforehand.
Are the Boat Tours Suitable for Children and Families?
The boat tours are generally family-friendly and suitable for children. Many operators welcome kids and provide activities or amenities to keep them engaged throughout the tour. It’s best to check with the specific company for their policies and accommodations for families.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows you to cancel your boat tour reservation without penalty up to 24-48 hours before the scheduled departure time. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking your tour.
Do the Boat Tours Offer Any Onboard Amenities or Facilities?
The boat tours typically offer a range of onboard amenities and facilities, which may include comfortable seating, snacks and refreshments, restrooms, and sometimes even entertainment or educational activities. You’ll want to check the specific details for each tour.
The Sum Up
Plettenberg Bay offers a range of exciting boat tours and cruises that allow you to explore the area’s diverse marine life. From seal viewings to whale watching, and dolphin encounters, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the beauty of the region’s coastline and the incredible creatures that call it home. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing sightseeing experience, Plettenberg Bay has something to suit every preference.