Starts
Pickup from your Port Elizabeth hotel
Finishes
Back to Hotel
Stops
4 Locations
Guide
Live Expert Guide
Set sail from the Port Elizabeth harbour on an exhilarating marine cruise to St Croix Island, home to the largest breeding colony of African penguins in the world — over 12,000 breeding pairs. This 2-hour boat trip takes you into the heart of Algoa Bay, recently declared a Hope Spot by Mission Blue for its extraordinary marine biodiversity.
As you cruise across the bay, keep watch for the "Marine Big Five" — southern right whales (seasonal June-November), bottlenose dolphins, Cape fur seals, great white sharks, and penguins. Your marine biologist guide identifies species and shares conservation insights.
Circle St Croix Island as thousands of penguins waddle across the rocks, and Cape gannets dive-bomb the waters around you in spectacular feeding frenzies. On the return journey, dolphins often surf the boat's bow wave, creating magical photo opportunities.
Cinematic Timeline
Board the eco-friendly vessel at the harbour and meet your marine guide for the morning briefing.
Board the eco-friendly vessel at the harbour and meet your marine guide for the morning briefing.
Cruise to the penguin colony island, observing thousands of African penguins in their natural habitat from the boat.
Cruise to the penguin colony island, observing thousands of African penguins in their natural habitat from the boat.
Continue along the coast looking for whales, dolphins, Cape fur seals, and various seabird species.
Continue along the coast looking for whales, dolphins, Cape fur seals, and various seabird species.
Head back to harbour with time for final photos and a warm drink on board.
Head back to harbour with time for final photos and a warm drink on board.
3 Experiences · 2h 55m Journey
8:00 AM departure · 10:55 AM return · Every moment accounted for
Route is approximate and may vary based on conditions.
per person
11 people booked this tour in the last 48 hours
Every tour supports local communities, minimises environmental impact, and contributes to conservation.
Our local experts are available 7 days a week to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
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Licensed & Insured
"Absolutely incredible experience! Our guide was so knowledgeable and passionate. The views were breathtaking and the whole day was perfectly organized. Best tour we've ever done in South Africa."
James & Maria
Verified Booking · TripAdvisor
One of 213+ five-star reviews from verified guests
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