Southern Right Whale
Eubalaena australis
Illustration: gardenroutefishing.co.za
The signature whale of the South African coast. Southern rights migrate up from Antarctic feeding grounds to calve and mate in the sheltered bays of the Cape, often coming remarkably close inshore. Stocky, black, with distinctive white callosities on the head and no dorsal fin — look for the V-shaped blow.
Field guide
Whole southern Cape coast incl. Plettenberg Bay, Mossel Bay and Hermanus
Sheltered inshore bays for calving
Protected; recovering after historic whaling
How to catch Southern Right Whale
When to catch Southern Right Whale
June to November, peaking August–October
📏 Limits & restrictions
Protected — viewing only, no take. Boats must keep 50 m unless permitted.
Tours targeting Southern Right 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
Whale Watching Cruise
Ocean Blue Adventures · Plettenberg Bay
R 1 250.00 Adults R1250 · Children R700 · Season June–November
Marine Eco Tour
Ocean Blue Adventures · Plettenberg Bay
R 800.00 Adults R800 · Children R450 · Season December–May
