The best whale watching in Knysna happens aboard Ocean Odyssey’s Close Encounter tours. These efficient 2-hour boat trips get you remarkably close to humpback and southern right whales during migration season.
For $84, you’ll join knowledgeable local guides who share insights about marine wildlife while navigating to prime viewing spots. The tour includes essential safety gear, water, and motion sickness tablets – a thoughtful touch.
Along with whales, expect to spot dolphins, seals, and occasional penguins. While it’s not suitable for small children or folks with back problems, the intimate setting and expert commentary make this our favorite choice.
Let’s explore Knysna’s top whale watching options.
Good To Know
- The Ocean Odyssey Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour in Knysna offers a 2-hour whale watching experience with the possibility of spotting humpback and southern right whales, dolphins, seals, and penguins.
- The tour includes experienced guides, life jackets, water, and motion sickness tablets, providing a comfortable and informative whale watching adventure.
- The tour travels through the scenic Knysna Heads, allowing for close-up encounters with some of the ocean’s largest and most majestic creatures.
- The tour is not recommended for those with back problems or children under 3 years, and is not wheelchair accessible.
- Early booking is recommended as the tour is likely to sell out, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Whale Watching Knysna – Close Encounter Experience Ocean Odyssey
For an up-close experience with some of the ocean’s largest and most majestic creatures, travelers can embark on a whale watching tour with Ocean Odyssey in Knysna. The close-encounter tour allows participants to step aboard a boat with an experienced captain and travel to the waters off the South African coastline. Along the way, they’ll listen to in-depth commentary about marine life biology and behavior, and may spot large pods of dolphins, Bryde’s whales, Southern right and humpback whales.
The tour includes bottled water, national park fees, and informative commentary from the captain and guide. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or children under 3 years, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps. Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, but there are no refunds for no sightings, and the tour may be canceled due to the minimum passenger requirement.
Read our full review: Whale Watching Knysna – Close Encounter Experience Ocean Odyssey Review
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Knysna: Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour by Boat
Travelers seeking a close-up encounter with whales can embark on Ocean Odyssey’s 2-hour whale watching tour in Knysna. The tour, likely to sell out, offers the chance to sail through the Knysna Heads and spot humpback and southern right whales, as well as dolphins, seals, penguins, and other marine life.
Priced at $84.00 per person, the tour includes a life jacket, mineral water, and motion sickness tablets, ensuring a comfortable experience. Led by a live tour guide in English and Afrikaans, the tour provides an opportunity to learn about the local whale population and ecosystem.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, the Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour by Boat is a must-try for those visiting Knysna. The meeting point is at Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching in Thesen Harbour Town, Knysna, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Read our full review: Knysna: Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour by Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Knysna’s whale watching tours provide a close-up view of these majestic creatures. The Ocean Odyssey boat tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness whales breaching and calving up close. With knowledgeable guides and well-equipped vessels, travelers can expect an unforgettable encounter with the region’s thriving whale population. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or seeking an exciting adventure, Knysna’s whale watching excursions are a must-do activity.