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Tours/Cape Town/Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

4.9(37)Cape Town6 hours
TRIPADVISOR4.9(37)
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
+34 photos
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus
Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

At a glance

Duration
6 hours
Price from
$309 / person
Location
Cape Town, South Africa
Rating
4.9 / 5 · 37 reviews
Languages
EN, FR
Group
Private
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Hotel pickup
Available
Confirmation
Instant
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operator
Paul polano tours

Description

Boat-Based Whale Watching (Weather Permitting) Begin your adventure with a brief on-land orientation led by our Whale Specialist guide before boarding the purpose-built catamaran at the Hermanus New Harbour. We then head out in search of the “gentle giants,” enjoying superior viewing and comfort on board. Throughout the trip, our friendly, knowledgeable crew provide personal attention while the Whale Specialist interprets marine life and explains whale behaviour as you watch them in action. A professional videographer is on hand to capture the highlights of your excursion. Duration: Approximately 2 Hours and 30 Minutes - Boat Weather Advisory: Start time or pickup time may be adjusted based on weather conditions. All departures are weather permitting and may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety reasons.

Schedule & prices

Runs
Every day
Start times
6:30 AM
Next available
Wed, Oct 14
Adult (ages 18+)
$309
Child (ages 3–11)
$242

Prices are per person when two book together; a solo traveller pays $434.

Larger groups pay less per person.

From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 13.

Tour Options

Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

Pickup included

What's included

Included
Private transportation
Light refreshments
Support Crew - Passenger Comfort
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Whale Specialist Guide - Board
Not included
USB Movie of tour (available to purchase at R390)

Pickup Locations & Times

Your guide or driver will meet you outside your hotel. They may also send you a WhatsApp message to confirm the pickup time.

Traveller Ratings

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

4.9
37 reviews
5
35
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
1

Important Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund

Frequently asked questions

How long does Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus take?

Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus lasts about 6 hours.

How much does Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus cost?

Prices start at $309 per person for this Cape Town experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. That is the per-person price when two book together; a solo traveller pays $434. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.

What days does Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus run?

According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 6:30 AM.

How much does Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus cost for children?

Children aged 3–11 pay from $242, adults from $309.

Can I cancel Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus for free?

Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, pickup is offered. Your guide or driver will meet you outside your hotel. They may also send you a WhatsApp message to confirm the pickup time. Pickup points include ONOMO Hotel Cape Town Waterfront, The Village Lodge.

What languages is Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus offered in?

The experience is available in EN, FR.

Is this a private or a group tour?

It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 15 travellers can book together.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Specialized infant seats are available

Will my booking be confirmed immediately?

Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.

Is Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus worth it?

Travellers rate it 4.9 out of 5 across 37 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Paul polano tours.

Reviews(37)

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

R
Roving61452535176
October 5, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Whale watching , penguins and wine

Great experience from Start to finish. Prompt pick up, informative driver (Paul) and great whale watching. Called in on an amazing wine farm on the way back to Cape Town too, and a penguin reserve.

2
224nkulum
August 26, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great service I enjoy it

Thank you for your fantastic review! It was a pleasure having you with Paul Palono tours. We' re proud to provide memorable Cape Town, and Hermanus whale watching. It was a pleasure helping you discover the beautiful coastline and marine life of South Africa

Operator response

Thanks you so mush for your wondeful review We're delighted that you enjoyed about providing memorable cape town sightseeing experiences , professional tour guide , and excellent service . We hope to welcome you back to South Africa soon .

V
Vacation53616886215
August 5, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Merci beaucoup!

Thank you so much, Paul Polano! The whale watching in Hermanus and the tour of the Cape Province were absolutely amazing. Paul was very friendly, punctual, and shared lots of interesting stories and local anecdotes throughout the excursion and the drive. I highly recommend him!

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed the Hermanus whale watching and Cape Province tour with Paul. It was a pleasure sharing the local stories and scenery with you. Thank you for recommending Paul Polano Tours!

W
Wander263108
July 1, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Wonderfully experiences..Great viewed

Whale watching experiences was amazing ..we will love to come back again ..I personally recommend to all because

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the Hermanus whale watching experience. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for another amazing experience!

D
Daydream01487844108
June 17, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Most informative tour 👌

Had wonderful experiences with Paul Polano tours whale washing service the mostly great experiences i can really recommend this trip with Paul i appreciated best 👌 service informative tour

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great whale watching experience with Paul Polano Tours. It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed the informative tour and our service. Your recommendation truly means a lot to us, and we really appreciate your kind words. We hope to welcome you again soon for another memorable experience! Warm regards, Paul Polano Tours

O
Odyssey01224821789
June 11, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great service in Capetown I can recommend

Highly recommended Paul Polano tours absolutely stunning, especially as the sun began to set over the reserve.we were lucky enough to see several whale watching including whole experience even more magical.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a stunning experience, especially during sunset, it truly is a magical time. Seeing whales during the tour makes the experience even more special, and we’re so glad you were able to enjoy that moment. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we really appreciate your kind words. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable experience! Warm regards, Paul Polano Tours

E
Explore48382845277
June 7, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Perfect time amazing service

Wonderful time with Paul Polano tours Everything was organized smoothly great experience and whole day felt stress fee. Definitely a 5 Star experience whale wish 🤞 ✨️ and would highly recommend booking through them!!!

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a smooth and stress-free experience with us. That’s exactly what we aim to provide for every guest. We’re also happy you enjoyed the whale watching experience, it truly is something special and magical! Your 5-star recommendation means a lot to us, and we really appreciate your kind words. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable tour! Warm regards, Paul Polano Tours

G
Getaway13998052189
June 5, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
The Best Tour Guide! Majestic Whales and a Seamless Trip

If you are looking for an extraordinary, seamless, and memorable experience, look no further than Paul Polano Tours. We went out with Paul last week, and it was simply the highlight of our trip. From the smooth pickup to the wealth of knowledge Paul shared along the way, everything was handled with absolute professionalism and a genuine passion for what he does. He knew exactly where to take us for the best views, and we were rewarded with the most magical sighting of a pod of majestic whales swimming in the vibrant turquoise waters. It’s incredibly rare to find a guide who combines excellent value, perfect logistics, and such a warm, engaging personality. Whether you are a local or a visitor, booking with Paul Polano Tours is an absolute must. We cannot recommend him highly enough and will definitely be booking again in the future!

Operator response

Thank you so much for your incredible and detailed review! We’re truly honoured to hear that your experience with us was the highlight of your trip. It means a lot to know that everything from the pickup to the overall journey met your expectations. Seeing whales in their natural environment is always a magical experience, and we’re so glad you were able to witness such a special moment. Your kind words about the professionalism, knowledge, and passion behind our tours are deeply appreciated. We always strive to provide seamless, memorable experiences, and your feedback truly means everything to us. Thank you once again for your support and recommendation. We look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure in the future! Warm regards, Paul Polano Tours

Q
Quest02257509352
January 8, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience I recommend

I had an amazing time when I was there’s it was very wonderful during well watching 🥺 with Paul Polano tour very remarkable very amazing tour guide very present

Operator response

Thanks for the great feedback.

D
Dave T
November 4, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Real insights and a really unforgettable tour.

There are so many “cookie cutter” tours for this activity so it’s important to choose one that stands out, and for all the right reasons.. Paul’s company has significant USPs. Firstly, the journey to Hermanus is stunning, the boat is like a cruise liner compared to most options you’ll get there, and the skipper is a like a de facto whale whisperer … you’re pretty much guaranteed to have an experience like being inside the National Geographic channel. On top of all that, Paul is a gent who is fun to hang out with for the day, as well as him being highly reliable and possessing an encyclopaedic knowledge. If you want a true insider’s take on the history of South Africa, especially the last 80 years in Cape Town, with intriguing anecdotes, and fascinating insights regarding contemporary living across the diverse class and racial spectrum of the country, then you’re not going to get a better grounding than this. If you’re visiting South Africa / Cape Town for the first time and you want a tourist’s experience that stands out from the crowd then select this tour with Paul.

Operator response

Thanks for the great feedback.

$309/ person
4.9(37)
Duration6 hours
LanguagesEN, FR
ConfirmationInstant
Check availability on Viator →
Booked and paid on Viator.com
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

No booking fees from Excurgo
Payment and confirmation are handled by Viator
Excurgo support

Excurgo earns a commission from Viator when you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.

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