Hermanus Whale Watching and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Planning a day out in South Africa that combines breathtaking nature, marine encounters, and fine wine? This Hermanus Whale Watching and Wine Tasting Private Tour might just be your perfect fit. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a well-balanced, immersive experience that highlights some of the best South Africa has to offer.

What we love about this tour are its focused encounters with wildlife, especially the chance to see Southern Right whales up close, the scenic beauty of the drive and surroundings, and the opportunity for delicious wine tastings in the mountains. The tour’s private format also means it feels personalized and flexible, perfect for travelers craving a tailored day.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the full day involves a lot of moving parts—so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and a love for variety. Overall, if you’re after a well-rounded, nature-filled day that combines the thrill of marine life with the relaxing pleasure of wine, this could be a standout choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife and marine life: Up-close encounters with Southern Right whales, dolphins, seals, and penguins.
• Spectacular scenery: Scenic drives through Sir Lowry’s Pass and along Clarence Drive offer picture-perfect vistas.
• Authentic experiences: Wine tasting at a top South African vineyard provides a taste of local craftsmanship.
• Flexible and private: The tour is exclusive to your group, making it more personalized and comfortable.
• Value-packed: The price covers transport, whale watching, and some entry fees, offering good value compared to booking separately.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Jean, add insight and context to your journey.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early with Scenic Drive

Starting bright and early at 5:30 am from The Silo Hotel at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the tour kicks off with an approximately 90-minute drive through Sir Lowry’s Pass. This route is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, with sweeping views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains and lush vineyards. This drive alone sets the tone, offering ample opportunities for photo stops and soaking in the natural beauty of the Cape countryside.

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be in comfort while your guide shares insights about the region’s geography and ecology. The early start means you get a head start on the day, especially important for whale sightings which are most common from June to November.

Hermanus: The Name that Means Whale

Hermanus is celebrated as one of the world’s top whale watching destinations. Its reputation is well-earned—thanks to the WWF’s recognition and the consistent sightings of Southern Right whales. Generally, from June to November, these whales come to Hermanus to mate and give birth, making it an ideal time for sightings.

Once in Hermanus, the tour heads straight to Hermanus Whale Cruises for a 3-hour boat trip. This part is the heart of the experience: being on the water, watching these gentle giants breach and tail slap—an astonishing sight. Reviewers, like one who mentions seeing whales “super happy,” highlight the thrill of witnessing these massive creatures in their natural habitat. The boat ride also offers chances to see dolphins, seals, penguins, and a variety of birdlife, adding layers of wildlife to the day.

What to Expect on the Boat Trip

The boat trip is admission included and is run by a reputable operator, ensuring safety and knowledgeable guides. Expect to be out at sea for roughly three hours, with plenty of room to move around and get different perspectives.

One reviewer notes the calm sea conditions and clear skies, which significantly enhance the experience. Others mention the closeness of the whales, with some coming quite near the boat—creating perfect photo opportunities and lifelong memories.

Lunch at Lemonicious

After the boat cruise, you’ll have about an hour and a half to enjoy a relaxing lunch at Lemonicious, a well-regarded restaurant on the scenic Hermanus shore. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, reviewers mention it as a highlight, praising the quality of food and the tranquil views. It’s a good chance to unwind, chat about the morning’s marine encounters, and prepare for the next stage of your day.

Wine Tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

Post-lunch, the tour ventures into the famous Hemel-en-Aarde mountains for a wine tasting session at Creation Wines. This vineyard is renowned for its finesse and distinction, and many visitors leave impressed with both the wines and the spectacular setting.

In about an hour, you’ll have the chance to sample some of South Africa’s finest wines, often praised for their quality and value. It’s a perfect complement to the morning’s marine adventure, offering a taste of the country’s vinicultural excellence amid picturesque vineyard vistas.

Penguin Encounter at Stony Point

Next, a quick visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve offers a chance to see the rare African Penguins. This park is free to visit and provides a close-up view of these charming, flightless birds. Reviewers describe the experience as marvellous, emphasizing how natural and authentic it feels—an easy, rewarding stop that enriches your understanding of local wildlife.

Scenic Return Along Clarence Drive

As the day winds down, the return journey takes you along Clarence Drive, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes. You’ll pass through craggy mountains, colorful fynbos, and rolling waves crashing on white sandy beaches of False Bay. This 90-minute drive offers plenty of opportunity for photos and reflection on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, an accredited guide/driver, air-conditioned transport, the whale watching boat trip, and access to Stony Point Penguins Colony. The tour also provides bottled water—a small but appreciated touch.

Not included are meals, drinks, and wine tasting fees, giving you flexibility to choose what and where to eat. Reviewers often recommend bringing snacks and extra cash for wine tastings and optional gratuities, which are at your discretion.

Practical Considerations

This tour is designed to be private, meaning only your group will participate. The early start may seem daunting, but it ensures you maximize your time and eyewitnessing opportunities. Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife, and wine will find this tour ticks all the boxes.

The cost of $300 per person is reasonable when considering all included activities, especially given the private nature, expert guides, and multiple stops. However, it’s worth noting that meals and wine tasting fees are extras, so budgeting extra for lunch and tastings is wise.

Most travelers seem to find the 9-hour duration well worth it, with reviews praising the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Jean, who adds a personal touch to the journey.

The Sum Up

This Hermanus Whale Watching and Wine Tasting Private Tour offers an impressive combination of nature, wildlife, and culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized experience without the hassles of organizing each stop independently. The tour’s highlights—whale encounters, scenic drives, wine tasting, and penguin sightings—are all authentic, beautifully curated moments that showcase South Africa’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides, beautiful vistas, and delicious local wines, this tour delivers great value and memorable experiences. The private format means you can tailor the day slightly to your interests, and the well-paced itinerary ensures you won’t feel rushed.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, the payoff is a full day of standout sights, wildlife, and scenic beauty that’s hard to match. For nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, or wine aficionados, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Hermanus’ best features—all in one memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the whale watching boat trip? The boat cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to see whales and marine wildlife.

Are meals included in the tour? No, meals are not included, but there is time for lunch at Lemonicious, which is recommended for its scenic setting and quality food.

Can I visit the penguin colony? Yes, the visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve is included, and it’s free to enter and view the African Penguins.

What about wine tasting costs? Wine tastings at Creation Wines are not included and will require extra payment, but many reviews highlight the quality of the wines.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should confirm with the operator, especially for boat trips and walking around reserves.

How scenic is the drive back? The return along Clarence Drive is considered one of the most beautiful coastal routes worldwide, packed with stunning vistas and photo opportunities.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, camera, a water bottle, and some cash for optional extras like wine tastings and meals are recommended.