Explore Table Mountain National Park
OCEAN SAFARI
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Table Mountain National Park, both above and below the water, with an Ocean Safari. Nestled at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the African continent, this national park has been ranked amongst the New 7 Wonders of the World and is a national heritage site. It is best explored by ocean safari and is a sure way to escape the crowds. Marvel at its magnificent mountains plunging into kelp-edged Atlantic seas, fringed with white sand beaches and granite cliffs, as we travel by sea along the Cape Peninsula.
We will explore hidden coves, historic shipwrecks, and bustling Cape Fur seal colonies. Glide over Atlantic swells, past towering cliffs and granite islands, and spot humpback whales or Heaviside's dolphins. For the adventurous, snorkel in majestic kelp forests to encounter endemic shy sharks, curious fur seals, or elusive penguins. You will be guided by passionate local wildlife experts who will reveal the stories of the Cape.
What can I expect on this Ocean Safari?
Embark on an adventure filled with fun, passion, and ocean exploration on our ocean safari with Animal Ocean. Marvel at scenic mountain cliffs, and explore a kelp forest as you snorkel freely, Conditions may vary, but our experienced guides ensure a safe experience. We will travel on the ocean looking for wildlife viewing from the boat before entering Duiker Island and snorkeling in the Kelp forests nearby. No prior experience is required, but one must be over 10 years old, weigh less than 120kgs, and be able to swim. Please note that seal encounters depend on natural wildlife factors and trips will be adjusted for weather, swell, and animal behavior.
Can I snorkel on the safari?
Yes! For confident swimmers there is the option to snorkel. Equipment included upon request. Sizes need to be provided.
Will we see whales and dolphins ?
Heaviside and Dusky dolphins are very common. November - Febuary is the the Humpback whale supergroup feeding season, where you can see them on the safari. Common dolphins and Southern right whales can also be seen occasionally. We are not a specific whale-watching boat so will stick to the appropriate guidelines.
What are the trip highlights ?
Kelp Forest snorkel
Close-up viewing of Cape Fur seals in Hout bay harbor
Chapmans Peak Drive Ocean Cliffs
Duiker Island Seal colony - 5000 Fur seals
Maori bay and the Bos 400 shipwreck
Oude Schip Fur seal haul out point - 20 Fur seals
Twelve Apostles Mountain range
Strawberry Rocks Fur seal haul out rocks - 100 fur seals
Facilities on arrival?
We will be meeting and going directly onto the boat, please go to the bathroom before arrival. There is no toilet on the boat. Please be wearing your swim suit if you plan on snorkeling. Valuables to be locked in your vehicle.
Do Fur seals bite?
A normal Cape Fur seal is not aggressive and is completely safe to snorkel with however some individuals can become ill and show abnormal aggression. We provide a cage for your safety when snorkeling at Duiker Island. It’s important you know there is an element of risk entering the natural environment with any wild creature, this is the same with our Cape Fur seals. Injuries will need immediate medical care and disinfection. Please choose to view the seals from the boat to avoid all risk.
Are there sharks?
No Great White sharks have ever been seen on our snorkeling trips. The cold Atlantic Ocean around Cape Town is not the preferred habitat of this species. there is little incentive for a Great White shark to come to Duiker Island as it is shallow, surrounded by kelp, and few young seals to attempt to feed on. In recent years, since 2017, orcas have killed many Great White sharks in the Western Cape, forcing these sharks to move away from our waters.
What other marine wildlife can be seen?
Embark on an oceanic journey to our seal snorkeling site and encounter a diverse array of marine species. From the agile Heaviside's dolphin to the majestic Humpback and Southern Right whales, our waters host a rich variety of cetaceans. Notably, Heaviside's dolphins are relatively small, reaching lengths of about 1.7 meters, and are predominantly found in the cool waters off the coast of Namibia and South Africa.
Watch along the shores for African penguins, Cape cormorants, and Swift terns, each contributing to the vibrant coastal spectacle. Fascinatingly, African penguins are exceptional marine hunters, capable of reaching speeds up to 20 km/h (12 mph) as they skillfully pursue fish, anchovies, and squid. Unlike many other birds, penguins cannot fly but showcase remarkable agility and speed underwater.
Dive deeper to spot intriguing fish species such as the elusive Sunfish, known for its affinity for jellyfish. Did you know? Sunfish are the heaviest bony fish globally, with some individuals weighing over two tons. They can be found at depths ranging from the surface to about 2,300 feet (700 meters).
Explore the kelp forest at Duiker Island, a thriving ecosystem for a variety of marine life. Kelp, a type of brown algae, undergoes a fascinating life cycle. It starts with microscopic spores developing into floating microscopic plants called gametophytes, which then fuse to form diploid sporophytes, growing into tall, floating structures. The kelp's holdfast anchors it to the substrate, while the stipes and blades reach toward the surface, providing a rich habitat for numerous species. Within the kelp's intricate embrace, you may encounter the Cape Rock Crab, Pyjama Shark, Red Roman, Sea Urchins, Kelp Klipfish, and Octopus. These captivating species navigate the kelp's stipes and blades, contributing to the dynamic underwater tapestry. Kelp Gulls and Cape Fur Seals also interact with this environment, creating a harmonious and diverse marine community.
Booking policy?
Bookings are confirmed only when payment has been received. Our online booking system only takes payment in full by credit card. Please be careful not to double book yourself onto multiple time slots, if this occurs there will be a 10% admin fee on the refund unless it is within 48 hours, then no refund is given.
Refund policy?
We will only cancel when conditions are unsafe to go out. We try cancel trips 24 hours before arrival but will cancel at short notice if the ocean is unexpectedly rough. A full refund will be given if we cancel due to poor weather conditions. We only refund via the same method that we received the payment from. NB! No refund if we change the trip route to an ocean safari and kelp forest snorkel experience due to aggressive seal behavior at a seal colony
Cancellation policy?
Cancellations within 48 hours of departure and no-shows will not be refunded. All cancellations prior to 48hrs incur a 10% administration fee.
Cost
OCEAN SAFARI - R2500 p/p
Scheduled trips available, 2-10 geusts
PRIVATE OCEAN SAFARI - R15 000
Enjoy a private tour tailored to your needs
What is our refund policy?
We will only cancel when conditions are unsafe to go out. Trips are canceled 24 hours before arrival. Will cancel at short notice if the ocean is unexpectedly rough. Full refund will be given if we cancel due to poor ocean conditions. Cancellations by the guest within 48 hours of departure and no-shows will not be given a refund. All cancellations prior to 48hrs incur a 10% administration fee.
FAQ: How does payment work?
Please fill out the booking form with all the relevant details. Make sure your contact details are correct, we may need to cancel the trip or re-schedule. We take full payment when booking. Master Card and Visa credit cards are accepted through the online payment and booking system. At the Harbour cash and Credit Cards are accepted for Go pro payments. If the trip is canceled due to bad weather we will try reschedule the trip or refund you.
Address:
Find Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling at the ANIMAL OCEAN OFFICES
Drive through Hout Bay suburb towards Hout Bay harbor, just after the circle on the beach you will turn right onto Albert road, number 8, which will be on your right.
