Southern Right Charters — one of only three operators with a government 50-metre approach permit in Walker Bay. Marine biologist on every trip.
About this experience
Hermanus is the only town in the world with a designated whale-cryer for good reason — Walker Bay is the chosen calving ground of the entire Southern Right population every winter. Our partner Southern Right Charters is one of only three permit holders allowed to approach within 50 metres of the animals.
Southern Rights were named for being the 'right' whale to hunt — slow, oil-rich and floating once dead. They were driven to under a hundred breeding females globally by the 1930s. Today the population is recovering at roughly 7% a year, and Walker Bay is the single most important nursery in the southern hemisphere. Trips run on a sturdy semi-rigid with a covered cabin and a marine biologist on board.
A glimpse of the day
Imagery courtesy of Southern Right Charters.
Your day, hour by hour
- 0:00New Harbour check-in
Welcome briefing on the jetty with your skipper and marine biologist, life vests issued.
- 0:15Out into Walker Bay
Short cruise to the calving grounds — the only such nursery in the southern hemisphere.
- 0:30With the whales
Up to 90 minutes at the permitted 50m approach distance; the whales often choose to come much closer.
- 1:45Return to harbour
Coffee, rusks and a debrief from the marine biologist on the way back in.
Highlights
- ✓Government-permitted 50m approach
- ✓Marine biologist on every trip
- ✓Jun–Nov: southern right calving season
- ✓Year-round: humpbacks, Bryde's, dolphins, seals
What's included
- +2hr boat trip
- +Permit & port fees
- +Marine biologist guide
- +Coffee & rusks on return
What to bring
- ·Warm layers (wind on the water)
- ·Waterproof jacket
- ·Soft-soled shoes
- ·Camera with strap
Things to know
- 📍 Meeting point: New Harbour jetty, Hermanus
- 🗓 Best season: Peak Jul–Oct · trips year-round
- 🥾 Fitness: Light · stable boat but standing for the best views
- 👶 Minimum age: 6 years
- ♿ Accessibility: Tell us about any mobility needs or disabilities at checkout — we'll share them with the operator in advance so they can prepare.
- 💳 Payment: Secure card payment, instant confirmation
Frequently asked questions
How do I confirm my booking?+
Pay securely by card and you'll receive instant confirmation by email with a booking reference, an add-to-calendar file, and the operator's contact details.
What's the cancellation policy?+
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your departure for a full refund. Inside 48 hours the booking is non-refundable, but you can change the date or transfer the booking to another person — manage it any time from the Manage Booking page.
What if the weather is bad?+
If your operator cancels for safety or weather, you'll be offered a free reschedule or a full refund — no questions asked. Light rain or wind usually does not affect departures.
Are children welcome?+
This activity has a minimum age of 6. Younger children unfortunately can't be accommodated for safety reasons.
Where do we meet?+
New Harbour jetty, Hermanus. Full meeting instructions, a map link and the operator's mobile number are included in your confirmation email.
Can I pay in cash on the day?+
No — all bookings are pre-paid by card to secure your seats. This is what allows us to give you instant confirmation.
Cancellation & changes
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure for a full refund. Inside 48 hours, the booking is non-refundable but can be rescheduled or transferred to another guest. Manage your booking any time at /manage.
Disclaimer of liability
overberg.activities operates as a booking aggregator. The activity is provided by Southern Right Charters, an independent operator. By booking you accept that all outdoor activities carry inherent risk and that you participate at your own risk. The operator's own safety briefings, waivers and indemnities apply on the day.
You must disclose any medical conditions, pregnancy, mobility limitations, or recent injuries at the time of booking (in the field provided) so the operator can assess suitability. Misrepresenting your fitness, age or medical status may void the booking and any insurance cover.
Full terms and the complete disclaimer of liability are available on our Terms & Conditions page.