Climb aboard for an unforgettable sea safari in Algoa Bay. One of South Africa’s most biologically diverse marine areas, and home to the Bottlenose Dolphin Capital of the World. Starting from the Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) harbour, this cruise takes you through the Addo Marine Protected Area, offering exceptional opportunities to see whales, dolphins, African penguins, Cape fur seals, and a variety of seabirds, all in their natural environment. Led by the expert team, this is more than just a cruise; it’s a meaningful marine conservation experience.
Did You Know?
Southern right whales are known for their curiosity and often come very close to the boat.
What to Expect on the Day
Morning Meet-Up & Departure
We meet at 08:00 AM on the grass area in front of the Nelson Mandela Bay Yacht Club (please allow for possible time adjustments; confirmed guests will be notified in advance if there are changes). Once you’re onboard our stable catamaran, we cruise out into the protected waters of Algoa Bay, with views of St. Croix Island and Brenton Island, vital habitats for endangered marine birds and penguins.
What You’ll See
Whales
Whale sightings vary by season, but Algoa Bay offers one of the best chances in South Africa to view:
Humpback whales (June to January), especially July–August and November-December, as they migrate with their calves. Southern right whales (July to October) are often seen close to shore near the harbour, and occasional sightings of Bryde’s whales and minke whales.
Dolphins
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins: Seen year-round in groups of 10–400, often bow-riding alongside the boat. Common dolphins: Appear in large superpods (up to 2,000), mostly from January to June. Humpback dolphins: Smaller pods, usually spotted in the warmer summer months.
African Penguins & Marine Birds
St. Croix Island is home to a breeding colony of over 3,000 African penguins, South Africa’s largest. Also spot African black oystercatchers, Cape cormorants, white-breasted cormorants, and Cape gannets. These islands form part of the Addo Elephant National Park’s Marine Protected Area, and although landings are not permitted, the close-up viewing is exceptional.
Other Marine Life
Depending on the season and sea conditions, you may also encounter:
Cape fur seals. Sharks, including the elusive great white. Albatrosses, petrels, terns, shearwaters, skuas, and more.
Cruise Duration & Return Time
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, returning to the harbour by 12:00–12:30 PM, depending on sightings and sea conditions. If marine activity is particularly rewarding and guests are not in a rush, we may extend the experience slightly.
Terms and Conditions Apply
Rates (Per Person in ZAR)
1 November 2024 – 31 October 2025
• Adults: R2 760
• Children under 12: R1 897.50
1 November 2025 – 31 October 2026
• Adults: R2 950
• Children under 12: R1 950
Please Note
Disclaimer:
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. While African penguins are consistently seen at St. Croix, sightings of whales, dolphins, and other marine life vary. If no wildlife is seen, a free return ticket may be issued at the skipper’s discretion.
✔ Passport or ID (or a copy)
✔ Sunscreen, Sunglasses & hat
✔ Camera or Binoculars
✔ Warm, windproof jacket (it can get chilly out at sea)
✔ Comfortable, non-slip shoes
✔ Motion sickness medication (just in case)
✔ Extra drinking water if required
✔ Light refreshments & Snacks
✔ Professional English-speaking guide
✘ Tips and gratuities
✘ Personal expenses
✘ Activities not mentioned
✘ Accommodation
✘ Transport
✘ Lunch
✘ Items of a personal nature
Disclaimer:
The client shall not hold any claim against Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd, our partners or employees for any injury, loss, accident, discomfort or inconvenience that may have been caused to the client’s self/partner/children/family members or friends on any tour or transfer including against any of his/her/their property and/or belongings from any cause whatsoever whether occasioned by any act, neglect or default of Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd or our service providers, employees or associates or by any act of God, nature, theft or civil commotion/disruption. The client in whole hereby indemnifies Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd against any such claim and hereby holds Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd harmless in all respect thereof.
Disclaimer: The client shall not hold any claim against Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd, our partners or employees for any injury, loss, accident, discomfort or inconvenience that may have been caused to the client’s self/partner/children/family members or friends on any tour or transfer including against any of his/her/their property and/or belongings from any cause whatsoever whether occasioned by any act, neglect or default of Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd or our service providers, employees or associates or by any act of God, nature, theft or civil commotion/disruption. The client in whole hereby indemnifies Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd against any such claim and hereby holds Blu-Pebbles Tours & Transfer (PTY) Ltd harmless in all respect thereof.
