Dolphins are beloved residents of Hout Bay, bringing joy and excitement to all who spot them. And believe us, it never gets old watching them jumping out of the water and showing off. Hout Bay is home to several dolphin species, including the common dolphin, heavyside dolphin and bottlenose dolphin. So, let’s have a closer look at the marine acrobats in our bay.
Breathtaking sightings, Image Credit: Steve Benjamin
Fun Facts About Hout Bay’s Dolphins
Each dolphin species in Hout Bay has unique characteristics and behaviours. The common dolphin, known for its distinctive yellow and grey markings, is incredibly fast, reaching speeds up to 60 km/h! Heaviside’s dolphins are small, stocky dolphins with distinctive black, white, and grey markings. They’re easy to identify by their triangular dorsal fins. Known for their playful behaviour, they often approach boats, making them a delight on our seal island boat tours. Lastly, bottlenose dolphins are recognizable by their sleek, grey bodies and friendly demeanour. They’re incredibly intelligent and often seen surfing the waves and leaping out of the water.
Dolphins just wanna have fun, Image Credit: Steve Benjamin
When to See Dolphins in Hout Bay
Dolphins can be spotted year-round in Hout Bay, with good chances of catching a glimpse at our resident heavyside dolphins. Other species are most commonly seen in the warmer months, from October to March, when food sources like sardines and anchovies are more plentiful. Typically, early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for dolphin sightings, as they are often actively hunting and playing during these times.
Next time you’re in Hout Bay, keep your eyes peeled for tiny fins, Image Credit: Steve Benjamin
Spot Dolphins in Hout Bay From the Water
So, are you eager to witness the magic of Hout Bay’s dolphins? Our Seal Island boat tour is the perfect way to enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and see pods of playful dolphins in action. While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, we ensure you’ll have an unforgettable experience with Hout Bay’s marine wonders at all times.
Hout Bay has once again been abuzz with the arrival of a unique guest: Buffel, a Southern elephant seal. This impressive creature has taken up residence on Duiker Island, sharing space with our local Cape fur seals. Buffel’s appearance is a rare treat, as elephant seals typically roam the South Atlantic near subantarctic islands, with the closest colony on South Africa’s Marion Island – over 2,100 kilometres away from Cape Town. Let’s get to know Hout Bay’s elephant seal a bit better.
Hi there, Image Credit: Steve Benjamin
Fun Facts about Southern Elephant Seals
Southern Elephant seals are remarkable animals known for their immense size and resilience. The males, or “bulls,” can weigh between 2,200 to 4,000 kilograms and reach lengths of nearly 6 metres! This makes Buffel truly stand out among the smaller Cape fur seals, which typically weigh up to 330 kilograms. Female Southern Elephant seals are smaller but can still weigh up to 900 kilograms. Interestingly, these seals are also record-breaking divers, hunting for fish and squid at depths of up to 1,000 metres and sometimes even beyond 2,000 metres – making them the deepest-diving air-breathing non-cetaceans.
Buffel definitely stands out, Image Credit: Steve Benjamin
Buffel’s Unique Behavior and Challenges
Buffel the elephant seal in Hout Bay has stirred quite a bit of attention not only due to his size but also because of his unusual behaviour. He has a habit of “playing” with the local Cape fur seals. Although his idea of play can be rough. His interactions with our fur seals sometimes lead to injury, for both. Given that it’s breeding season for elephant seals right now, Buffel’s behaviour is likely influenced by hormones. And his presence on Duiker Island is a reminder of the complex characteristics of these majestic animals.
Buffel is now on top of Duiker Island’s food chain
Recently, concerns arose about Buffel’s health due to a rabies outbreak in local seal colonies, which could potentially spread to visiting marine mammals. Fortunately, a team of marine scientists and veterinarians, including experts from the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, successfully administered a rabies vaccine to Buffel. This vaccination effort highlights the commitment to protecting not only Buffel but also his distant South Atlantic relatives from potential disease.
What does the Future hold for Buffel?
As the only elephant seal in Hout Bay, Buffel has become something of a celebrity. His distinctive face, complete with a scar through his left eyebrow and a blind left eye, makes him easily recognizable. His life on Duiker Island hasn’t been without its challenges, but he’s shown remarkable resilience. Buffel spends his days sunbathing, cooling off in the Atlantic, and occasionally asserting himself among the Cape fur seals.
Embark on an ocean adventure with us, Image Credit: Jean Tresfon
Meet Buffel on a Seal Island Boat Tour
If you would like to see Buffel up close, join a boat tour with Circe Launches. Our seal-watching tours offer the best vantage point to observe Buffel, the Cape fur seals and other marine life in their natural habitat. Book a cruise with us today to experience Hout Bay’s unique marine world and catch a glimpse of our famous elephant seal.
While Cape fur seals are our business, we cannot get around (sometimes, quite literally) our bigger marine mammals. From the best lookout spots to the various species – we tell you all you need to know about whale watching in Cape Town. Are you ready to have a whale of a time?
Cape Town is a great place for whale watching
Where to go Whale Watching in Cape Town?
You’re in luck! Did you know that you don’t even have to leave the mainland to watch whales in Cape Town? They come so close to our shores that you can often spot them without binoculars. Here are a few excellent whale watching spots if you want to see our ocean mammals in action.
Hout Bay
Our home offers excellent chances of spotting whales. Whether from the jetty or beach near the harbour, we often see smaller pods of whales in our bay. Chapman’s Peak Drive offers you an elevated view over the whole bay, ideal for spotting whales, dolphins and seals frolicking in the water below.
Excellent view from Chapman’s Peak Drive
Sea Point Promenade
Combine a relaxed stroll along the promenade with whale watching in Cape Town. Keep your eyes peeled for a blow, a cloud of moist air that whales breathe out when they surface. The promenade stretches all the way from Camps Bay via Clifton, Bantry Bay, Sea Point, Green Point and Mouille Point to the V&A Waterfront.
Combine coastal walks with whale watching
False Bay
There are many great whale watching spots in False Bay. With a little luck, you might spot whales while enjoying seafood in Kalk Bay or on your drive to the penguin colony at Boulders Beach outside of Simon’s Town. Scan the ocean when visiting Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope – you might be surprised how many ocean animals you can see.
Stunning views of False Bay
False Bay is also home (at least every now and then) to two orcas that can’t get enough of our waters: Port and Starboard.
Kommetjie
Kommetjie is not just another surf and beach walk location. It’s also a beautiful place to spot marine wildlife. Pack a picnic and look out for whales making their way down the coast.
Hermanus, Walker Bay & beyond
If you can’t get enough of whales, you should also visit Hermanus, the capital of whale watching. Drive along the coast via Clarence Drive to maximise your chances of spotting whales. There are plenty of lookout points and options for a snack with a view. Walker Bay in Hermanus is famous for some of the best land-based whale watching in the world.
Hermanus is world-renowned for its land-based whale watching
But South Africa’s whale watching opportunities are not limited to the Western Cape. In fact, the majority of our coastline is a seasonal feeding, mating and birthing ground for whales. This includes the West Coast, Garden Route, Sunshine Coast and KwaZulu-Natal.
When can I spot Whales in Cape Town?
Our annual whale season begins in June and ends in November. Theoretically, there is a chance of spotting whales along our shores year-round, but our winter and spring months give you excellent opportunities to watch the ocean mammals in numbers.
Meet our gentle giants
The Whales of Southern Africa
There are a few whale species that live in South African waters. Here’s an overview.
Southern Right Whale
Southern Right whales are frequent visitors to South African shores. These gentle giants are easy to identify by their broad, V-shaped blow and the distinctive white callosities (rough patches of skin) on their heads. Fun fact: They are known for their playful behaviour, often breaching and slapping the water with their fins.
Southern Right whale says hi
Humpback Whale
Famous for their majestic breaching and long, complex songs, Humpback whales can also be seen migrating along our coast during whale season. They have long pectoral fins and a distinctive knobby head. Did you know? Humpbacks are famous for their acrobatics, often leaping entirely out of the water. Their hump-shaped back, seen when they dive, is the best way to identify them.
Showing off
Bryde’s Whale
Bryde’s whales are more elusive and often remain in South African waters year-round. They are smaller than other baleen whales and can be identified by three distinctive ridges on the top of their heads. Bryde’s whales can dive for up to 20 minutes while feeding on schooling fish, which makes them more elusive than other species.
Although not as common as other species, orcas occasionally pass through Table Bay and False Bay. These apex predators are easily recognisable by their striking black and white coloration and tall dorsal fins, which can reach up to 2 metres in males. Keep an eye out for their characteristic black dorsal fins cutting through the water! Good to know: Port and Starboard both have collapsed dorsal fins.
Every now and then orcas grace us with their presence
Happy Whale Watching in Cape Town!
Let us know if you would like to know anything else about whales around Cape Town. We are often lucky enough to encounter whales on our Seal Island boat tours. Book your cruise today and observe the abundant marine wildlife around our Cape Peninsula. We look forward to welcoming you on board!
Welcome to the fascinating world of Cape fur seals, one of the most charismatic marine creatures found in the waters around Hout Bay. As the original seal island tour operator, we’re thrilled to share five intriguing facts about these playful creatures that inhabit our iconic Seal Island and beyond. So, grab your virtual snorkel and dive into the depths of knowledge about our seals!
Always showing off, Image Credit: Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling
1. Aquatic Acrobats
Cape fur seals are renowned for their playful and acrobatic behaviour in the water. From somersaults to barrel rolls, these agile creatures never fail to impress with their underwater antics. Watching them twist and turn with grace and agility is a delightful sight on our boat tours.
2. Incredible Adaptations
Cape fur seals boast a remarkable set of adaptations that allow them to thrive in their marine environment. Their dense fur coat, composed of short, water-repellent hairs, helps keep them warm in the chilly ocean waters. Additionally, their streamlined bodies and flipper-like limbs enable them to navigate through the water with remarkable agility, making them adept hunters of fish and squid.
Visiting Hout Bay’s seal colony
3. Social Creatures
South Africa’s seals are highly social animals, often congregating in large colonies both on land and at sea. At Seal Island, you can witness the bustling energy of Hout Bay’s colony as seals playfully interact with one another, bask in the sun, and engage in spirited vocalisations. Watching these social dynamics unfold is a memorable experience for anyone lucky enough to visit.
4. Impressive Diving Abilities
Cape fur seals are renowned for their impressive diving abilities. They are capable of descending to depths of over 200 metres in search of food. Equipped with large lung capacities and efficient oxygen storage mechanisms, they can remain submerged for extended periods, gracefully navigating the underwater realm in pursuit of their next meal.
Look at these whiskers!
5. Whisker Wonders
One fun fact about Cape fur seals is their unique whiskers, which are highly sensitive and play a crucial role in their hunting abilities. These long, sensitive whiskers help them detect vibrations and movements in the water, allowing them to locate prey with remarkable precision, even in murky conditions. It’s a fascinating adaptation that showcases the ingenuity of these incredible marine mammals.
See Hout Bay’s Cape Fur Seals
Ready to witness the wonder of Cape fur seals in Hout Bay? Join us for an unforgettable boat tour to Seal Island, where you’ll have the chance to observe these charismatic creatures in their natural habitat. Book your tour today and get ready to create lasting memories amidst the breathtaking beauty of Hout Bay’s marine wonders!
Hout Bay is our home and we simply cannot get enough of that coastal charm that makes our self-proclaimed republic so unique. As experts in the area, our very own seal island boating business has been running for more than 50 years, we want to share our top activities in Hout Bay with you. So, don’t forget to add Hout Bay to your Cape Town itinerary and look forward to many maritime adventures.
Hout Bay has something to offer for everyone
1. Seal Island Boat Trips
We usually don’t like to blow our own horn, but you should not miss out on a classic seal island boat cruise with us. The 45-min trip allows you to admire Hout Bay from the ocean and observe the adorable Cape fur seals around Duiker Island.
2. Chapman’s Peak Drive
Ever wanted to feel like you’re in a car commercial? Chapman’s Peak Drive is the epitome of coastal drives. And without doubt one of the most popular activities in Hout Bay. Feel the wind in your hair while the waves of the Atlantic ocean crash beneath you. Even if you don’t drive a convertible, the views are stunning and the lookout spots are plenty!
Enjoy magnificent views on Chapman’s Peak Drive
3. Bay Harbour Market
The Bay Harbour Market opens its doors from Friday (for a fun evening) to Sunday. Expect to find handcrafted jewellery, paintings, woodwork and other gems. Treat yourself to delicious food – there are countless savoury and sweet options to choose from. One of the best activities in Hout Bay, it’s a vibe!
4. The Clay Café
A relaxed afternoon at the Clay Café is the perfect family activity in Hout Bay. Find your inner artist and paint beautiful ceramics – from vases and mugs to unicorn figurines and plates. The spacious outdoor area boosts a big playground for kids. Combine this with healthy food and you’ve got yourself the perfect outing for young and old.
5. Beach Bliss
Feel the sand between your toes and wander along Hout Bay’s beautiful sand beach. Locals love walking their dogs along the coastline and you’ll find many families with kids building sandcastles. If the conditions are great, why not rent a surfboard and catch some waves?
Join us on a kayaking tour in the bay
6. Kayaking
Join Cape Town Kayaks on a group or private paddling adventure in Hout Bay. Tide permitting, you’ll start by venturing under the harbour wall, a true adventure. Look out for fish and crabs in the clear waters around the harbour. Then, you’ll continue along the beach all the way to the other side of the bay, where Chapman’s Peak Drive begins. Eventually, you’ll head back to the harbour, where you’re greeted by seals. What a fun workout on a sunny day!
7. Fish and Chips at Snoekies
Do we have to say more? Nothing tops a lekker fish n chips at Snoekies, a Hout Bay institution. The fresh sea breeze simply calls for fried fish fillets and potatoes. Plus, Snoekies is located at the other end of the harbour, just a stone’s throw away from the Hout Bay market.
8. Mariner’s Wharf
Harbour charm: Before you embark on a seal island tour with us, we highly recommend taking a stroll down to Mariner’s Wharf. Stock up on maritime décor at the souvenir shop or enjoy lunch at the restaurant. There are also various vendors selling African art, wooden figures and beaded animals.
Snorkel with Cape fur seals
9. Snorkelling with Seals
Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling allows you to dive into the natural habitat of Hout Bay’s Cape fur seals. Snorkel around the kelp forest and watch the seals play in the waters. Experienced guides are always at your side to ensure a safe underwater adventure. Book your snorkelling tour today!.
10. World of Birds
More than 3,000 birds and 400 species, including mammals and reptiles, have found refuge at this sanctuary. Nestled between forest and mountains, World of Birds is one of the most popular activities in Hout Bay. You can even take the hop-on hop-off bus to get there before heading to the harbour.
11. Dinner at Chef’s Warehouse
Are you a fan of fine dining? The restaurant Chef’s Warehouse at the boutique hotel Atlantic Tintswalo serves exquisite food in a breathtaking setting. While you sip on your favourite cocktail or a glass of champagne, you can watch the sun set behind the Sentinel. Enjoy multiple courses, all perfectly curated. Make sure you book your table as soon as possible.
Hiking in Hout Bay promises great views over mountains and ocean
12. Hiking
Since Hout Bay is surrounded by mountains, it’s no surprise that hiking is also very popular. Hout Bay Corner is a moderate route, ideal for everyone who doesn’t want to commit to a full day outing. If you prefer a little bit of a challenge, the Chapman’s Peak Hike is the right choice for you. Whichever path you choose, please make sure to follow all safety precautions.
13. Horseback Riding
Why not go for a little horse ride? There are options in Hout Bay itself, but you can also drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive and explore the long sandy beach in Noordhoek on horseback. You don’t need to be an experienced rider in order to have a great time.
Noordhoek, on the other side of Chapman’s Peak Drive
14. Urban Brewing Co.
The Urban Brewing Company is right next to the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay. If you like craft beer, you don’t want to miss out on this experience. Their creations are inspired by Bavarian beer culture and you are able to buy lager by the litre. A little bit of Oktoberfest feeling in South Africa!
15. Art Galleries
Stunning views of mountains, forest and ocean bring lots of artists to Hout Bay. Make sure to visit the family-run Hout Bay Gallery. You might even find paintings, sculptures and fine art prints for your own home. And who knows, our home might inspire you to become creative as well.
16. Imizamo Yethu Experience
A walking tour through the Imizamo Yethu informal settlement is one of the most authentic cultural activities in Hout Bay. A local resident will take you on a 40-minute walk through the township and introduce you to the people of the busy settlement.
Whale season brings lots of visitors
17. Dolphin & Whale Watching
Southern Right Whales come to South African water between June and November every year. But technically, you can see them or Humpback Whales anytime of the year. During whale season, we are often lucky enough to spot these ocean mammals on our seal island tours. In addition, there is a mega pod of dolphins that regularly returns to our bay for a fishy meal.
18. Llandudno Beach
Cape Town has many dream beaches, but Llandudno next to Hout Bay is a firm favourite among locals and visitors. White sand, boulders and turquoise water make your sunbathing dreams come true. Parking is limited, so arrive early.
We hope you find our list of top activities in Hout Bay helpful. Make sure to visit our neighbourhood during your next stay in Cape Town. We can’t wait to welcome you in our vibrant republic.
A private charter in Cape Town? Yes, please! There’s nothing quite like going on a cruise with Circe Launches in stunning Hout Bay. Our private charter experience is not just a journey, it’s a memory that you’ll cherish forever. No matter if it’s personal or business, a private charter with us is always a good idea.
Let’s go cruising!
Unique Venue for a Big Day
Celebrating a special occasion? Circe Launches is your canvas for creating magical moments. Whether it’s a milestone birthday or an anniversary, the backdrop of Hout Bay adds an unparalleled touch of elegance to your festivities. Without the constraints of a traditional venue, your special day becomes an open sea of possibilities (pun intended!).
For those who prefer a more relaxed vibe, picture this: a sundowner party with friends aboard a private charter. As the sun dips below the horizon, turning the sky into a canvas of warm hues, your group can revel in the joy of friendship against the tranquil backdrop of Hout Bay. It’s a sundowner soiree that goes beyond the ordinary – an exclusive gathering where laughter and connection are set against the mesmerising tapestry of a South African sunset.
Enjoy magical sunsets on your private boat tour
Where Business is Fun
Imagine turning your next work function into a sea-bound sensation. We offer the perfect setting for team-building, strategic discussions, and a break from the usual office grind. Picture your colleagues soaking in the fresh sea breeze as you navigate the waters together, fostering camaraderie while enjoying the breathtaking views of Chapman’s Peak Drive. It’s not just another work function, it’s a corporate escape that will leave a lasting impression.
Book Your Private Charter in Cape Town now
So, whether it’s work, celebration, or simply a sunset with friends, let us make your outing memorable. What are you waiting for? Let’s book your private charter in Cape Town with Circe Launches. We’re looking forward to welcoming you on board!
Just outside of Hout Bay, Duiker Island – also known as Seal Island – is home to about 64,000 individual Cape fur seals. Between 5,000 and 7,000 try to find a sunny spot on the island at once. When it comes to seals in Cape Town, this rocky outpost is where our seals truly steal the show.
Discover Duiker Island with Circe Launches
It only takes you about 20 minutes to get to Duiker Island on our glass-bottom boat Calypso. As our vessel draws closer, the playful antics of these marine maestros become a performance that rivals any blockbuster. Besides Cape fur seals, the area is also known for marine birds such as common cormorants and kelp gulls. Occasionally, you might also spot a seal elephant that seeks our waters seasonally.
Seal Island and its Cape fur seals
Only 95 x 77 metres in size, Duiker Island isn’t just a destination, it’s a front-row seat to the fascinating world of Cape fur seals in South Africa. From basking in the sun to agile dives into the cool Atlantic Ocean, these creatures create a living mosaic of natural wonder.
A Haven for Cape Fur Seals
Seals in Cape Town may be a common sight, but Duiker Island takes it to the next level. As you navigate the waters surrounding the island, the air is filled with the unmistakable sounds of seals engaging in their daily symphony. And yes, you can smell them, too. That’s also part of Mother Nature. But don’t worry, the fresh sea breeze ensures that your seal island cruise is an enjoyable outing.
Playful seal pup near Duiker Island
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just seeking a unique adventure, Duiker Island promises an encounter with Cape fur seals that fascinates young and old. These charismatic creatures make every visit a dynamic and ever-changing experience, ensuring that no two trips are alike. If you want to get even closer to our marine animals, make sure to book a seal snorkelling trip.
Explore Duiker Island with us
Book Your Seal Island Tour now
So, if you find yourself in Hout Bay, make sure to join us on a cruise to Duiker Island. Witness our Cape fur seals in their natural habitat and let the magic of this marine spectacle leave an indelible mark on your weekend getaway or holiday. Your rendezvous with Cape Town’s seals awaits – and Seal Island is where the curtain rises on this extraordinary wildlife performance.
As you venture along the Cape Peninsula, a visit to Hout Bay and Duiker Island is a must. Join us, Circe Launches, a trusted name in boat excursions for the past 50 years, on a seal island cruise. We ensure a memorable experience aboard our glass-bottom boat Calypso. Here’s what you can expect from our seal island boat trips.
Get ready to see countless Cape fur seals in their natural habitat
Upon entering Hout Bay Harbour, our friendly staff is ready to greet you warmly. Our ticket kiosk is conveniently located right next to the parking area. Simply look out for our big sign.
Explore Hout Bay from the water
Our cruise commences by gliding past the Hout Bay Yacht Club Marina. As we navigate the waters, historical landmarks unfold, such as West Fort, a relic from 1781, built by the Dutch East India Company and the French. Strategically positioned, the fort’s cannons once guarded the bay’s center.
Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most stunning coastal roads in the world
Further along, Chapman’s Peak Drive graces the port side, while Sentinel Mountain stands tall on the starboard side. Chapman’s Peak Drive with its many outlook points and picnic spots, a marvel completed in under eight years in 1922, is another highlight you should add to our travel list.
Approaching Duiker Island, our skipper positions the boat for an up-close encounter with the curious Cape fur seals. Calypso’s glass-bottom viewing compartment promises spectacular glimpses of kelp forests and marine life beneath the boat – get a scuba-diver’s view without the need to get wet.
We’re the only ones with a glass-bottom boat in Hout Bay
Seals, dolphins, whales and so much more
After spending time with the seal colony, Calypso sets course back to the bay, where dolphins and whales may grace your journey, depending on the season. We at Circe Launches ensure an immersive and educational maritime experience, leaving you with treasured memories of Hout Bay and its fascinating marine life. Let’s hop on board! Book your cruise tickets today. We look forward to welcoming you on board!
2023 marked the golden jubilee of Circe Launches, an integral part of Hout Bay’s maritime heritage. Since its inception in 1973, the family business has played a vital role in supporting the local community and tourism industry in Hout Bay.
Our home Hout Bay
50 Years of Seal Island Tours
As the original and first seal island boat trip operator in Hout Bay, we have welcomed more than 5 million passengers from all over the world. It all began with the transformation of the two old air-sea rescue vessels “Circe” and “R9”.
Since 2001, “Calypso”, the glass-bottom boat, has taken ocean lovers out to Duiker Island. The 22 metre-long vessel offers (shaded) seating outside as well as sheltered seating inside. Well-trained skippers navigate guests safely through the bay while sharing lots of interesting fun facts about the coastal town and its history.
Cape fur seals are our business
Become part of the Circe Launches family
The 50th anniversary celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of Hout Bay’s maritime heritage and the role that Circe Launches continues to play in shaping the maritime future of this coastal gem. Cheers to 50 years of Circe Launches – a beacon of resilience, unity, and maritime excellence in Hout Bay!
