Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 864 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise worth booking?
Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise is a 4-hour experience in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, from $268 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 864 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (864)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $268 per person
Our cruise is unique in that we operate in the diverse Algoa Bay, rich in wildlife and history. Visiting St Croix island, home to half the worlds remaining endangered African Penguins. This tour is run just once a day instead of trying to run multiple cruises in one day. This ensures that our skippers and guides are fresh and alert for every cruise and makes it possible to spend more time and effort searching for wildlife in our Bay or observing something special that we come across provided that no one on board is in a rush to get back for a flight or bookings previously made. Our main focus is education, conservation and assisting in research which is made possible by the funds generated from our Marine Eco-Cruises out into Algoa Bay. Trees are planted to balance our carbon footprint for each cruise conducted. We use smaller boats so as to keep our cruises personal. Our skippers and Guides are very knowledge and are there to answer any questions and see to the needs of our Guests.
What you get
About this experience
Our cruise is unique in that we operate in the diverse Algoa Bay, rich in wildlife and history. Visiting St Croix island, home to half the worlds remaining endangered African Penguins. This tour is run just once a day instead of trying to run multiple cruises in one day. This ensures that our skippers and guides are fresh and alert for every cruise and makes it possible to spend more time and effort searching for wildlife in our Bay or observing something special that we come across provided that no one on board is in a rush to get back for a flight or bookings previously made. Our main focus is education, conservation and assisting in research which is made possible by the funds generated from our Marine Eco-Cruises out into Algoa Bay. Trees are planted to balance our carbon footprint for each cruise conducted. We use smaller boats so as to keep our cruises personal. Our skippers and Guides are very knowledge and are there to answer any questions and see to the needs of our Guests.
What's included
Included
- Snacks
What you'll see and do
Port Elizabeth
We meet our guests at 8am and after a short briefing before we head out into PE's beautiful Algoa Bay on our twin-engine catamaran. The whale season begins in June when we see humpback whales moving along the coast as they head up the East coast of Africa towards their breeding grounds. Humpback whales can be seen in Algoa Bay from June to early December. They make their return journey from October, females with calves in tow. Southern right whales can be seen close in shore from July to September.
240 minutes here
Port Elizabeth
Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins are the most frequently observed dolphins in the bay and can be spotted all year round, in groups from 10-400. These playful dolphins are mostly found in shallow waters either near the beaches or around St Croix Island, and tend to come right up to the boat and ride along in the bow waves. Common dolphins are also a spectacular sight as they are seen in groups of 1000-2000, swimming along at great speeds. These dolphins are often spotted all year round further out to sea, especially on the bird island tours, as they follow large shoals of baitfish which move past the bay. We also get humpback dolphins in Algoa Bay, which usually occur in much smaller groups, anywhere between 1 and 20, and are most commonly seen during the summer months.
Pass by without stopping
Port Elizabeth
St. Croix Island is home to 12,000 endangered African penguins, the largest breeding colony found in Africa (though we have lost 70% in 10 years). It is here where you will get a close-up encounter with these comical birds. The African penguin’s breeding season reaches its peak between March and May, when you may be able to see the chicks from the boat. As well as African penguins, both St. Croix and Brenton Island are inhabited by the endangered African black oystercatcher, white-breasted cormorants and Cape cormorants. The St. Croix Island group, along with the Bird Island group, became part of the Addo Elephant National Park, allowing rangers to patrol the islands in aid of conservation efforts to protect the African penguin population. As they are Marine Protected Are-as, please note that you are not allowed to actually go on to the islands.
Pass by without stopping
Port Elizabeth
Next to the above-mentioned animals you have the opportunity to see of spotting white-breasted cormorants, Cape cormorants, bryde’s whales, minke whales, Cape fur seals, various species of sharks, Cape gannets and various species of pelagic birds including terns, petrels, skuas, shearwa-ters and albatrosses.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Port Elizabeth
Enter the harbour and follow the road to the right and sign in at harbour security. Continue straight for approximately 370m, turn left and PE Deep Sea Angling Club is located just to the right of the following intersection.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Enter the harbour and follow the road to the right and sign in at harbour security. Continue straight for approximately 370m, turn left and PE Deep Sea Angling Club is located just to the right of the following intersection.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Raggy Charters
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Disabled who can board with assistance from family and crew are welcome to join. There is no age restriction. Life jackets are available for all ages
- Please join at your own discretion regarding health and fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 864 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
864 verified traveler reviews for Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An unforgettable experience on our honeymoon! ❤️
My husband and I went on this boat trip hoping to see whales, and it turned out to be even more magical than we expected. We were lucky enough to see a whale and her calf, along with lots of dolphins, seals, and even penguins! It was such a special experience, and we’ll remember it for a long time. The group size was just right, so everyone had a good view of the animals without feeling crowded. The crew was wonderful and really made an effort to help us see as much wildlife as possible. We absolutely loved every moment and would highly recommend this trip to anyone visiting Port Elisabeth. A perfect experience to remember! 🐋❤️
via Tripadvisor
Great experience
The staff is very kind and friendly. They were very accommodating on the departure time as we were driving from far. Karen was very professional and flexible while Jake was knowledgeable and competent. The experience was fantastic as we saw lots of dolphins, whales and penguins. Would have just appreciated a more interaction and explanation by the crew
via Tripadvisor
Had a Whale of a Time
One of the most amazing trips out of many I have done in Africa over the last 2 months. Saw 8-10 whales, birds dive-bombing fish, penguins on an island, and topped off with so many active dolphins close up that I lost count. All the crew were so passionate (and part of a conservation group) about the sightings and conserva. The boat was comfortable and not crowded. Sean, who was one of the guides, was awesome at spotting and explaining behavior. Later Sean was my private guide to Addo Elephant Park, where we saw many elephants including bulls with one less than 2 meters away. Sean is very experienced. I really appreciated his knowledge and focus on safety and insight on where to go. We also so a buffalo herd and many different types of antelopes as well as zebras. Really appreciate Karen in the office as well.
via Tripadvisor
Don't hesitate book now!
Fabulous day, exceeded our expectations in terms of experience (which is often happenchance) and ethics of the operator. Loved it!
via Tripadvisor
Great day
A great day, saw loads of dolphins, 3 of the SA Bryde's whales, the long skinny ones, sad to see so few penguins on the island- lots of birds diving and saw a seal- if you get sea sick, take the pills, you'll be fine
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $268 to $4,330
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 302
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Port Elizabeth.
How much does Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise cost?
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Prices start at $268 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Port Elizabeth usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Port Elizabeth is not rushed.
Is Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 864 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Port Elizabeth, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Around 302 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Port Elizabeth can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Port Elizabeth and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Port Elizabeth within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Port Elizabeth?
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On Outty we rank every Port Elizabeth experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Addo Elephant Full Day Safari with a Traditional South African Braai (BBQ) Lunch, Addo Elephant National Park All Inclusive Full-Day Safari, Addo Elephant National Park from Port Elizabeth - FD01. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Port Elizabeth?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Port Elizabeth?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Included: Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Enter the harbour and follow the road to the right and sign in at harbour security. Continue straight for approximately 370m. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Whale, Dolphin & Penguin Island Cruise?
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Across 864 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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