The Namibian coast is a significant migration route for humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) moving between their Antarctic feeding grounds and their breeding areas in the warmer waters to the north. From May to November, humpback are regularly encountered off Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, with peak sightings in July and August.
The Trips
Whale watching boat trips depart from Walvis Bay harbour and run 1.5 to 2 hours in the open bay and the near-offshore zone. The same operators who run catamaran lagoon cruises typically offer separate whale watching departures in season; some tours combine the lagoon wildlife with an offshore extension for whale searching.
Species encountered: Humpback whale (primary target; regularly seen May to November); Bryde’s whale (year-round; less common); orca (occasional); southern right whale (rare but recorded).
The humpback display: Humpback are active surface animals that breach, tail-slap, and spy-hop with regularity. A humpback breach at close range from a boat is one of the more spectacular wildlife events available from the Namibian coast.
Praktische Notizen
Season: May to November; peak July to August Dauer: 1.5 to 2 hours; may combine with dolphin and seal watching Guarantees: No wildlife encounter can be guaranteed; sightings are frequent in season but not certain on any individual trip Seasickness: The Benguela swell can be significant; those prone to seasickness should take medication before departure
Contact Mat-Travel for whale watching bookings.