Marine Mammal

Humpback Whale

Megaptera novaeangliae

Illustration: gardenroutefishing.co.za

Famous for breaching and long pectoral fins. Humpbacks pass the Garden Route on migration, generally further offshore than southern rights, in deeper water. Watch for the bushy blow and the raised, knobbly dorsal hump when they dive.

Field guide

📍 Distribution

Along the entire South African coast on migration

🌊 Habitat

Open coastal and offshore waters

🛡️ Conservation

Protected; populations recovering well

How to catch Humpback Whale

When to catch Humpback Whale

📅 Best months

Migration May–July and again Nov–December

📏 Limits & restrictions

Protected — viewing only, no take.

Full regulations info →

Tours targeting Humpback Whale

Dolphin Discovery Cruise

Ocean Safaris · Plettenberg Bay

R 0.00 Season 1 December – 31 May · pricing on enquiry

Whale Watching Cruise

Ocean Safaris · Plettenberg Bay

R 0.00 Season 1 June – 30 November · pricing on enquiry

Marine Eco Tour

Ocean Blue Adventures · Plettenberg Bay

R 800.00 Adults R800 · Children R450 · Season December–May