Ocean Safari
Explore Cape Town’s Untouched Ocean Wilderness
An unforgettable marine adventure through wild coastlines, vibrant wildlife, and the world-famous African Seaforest.
Step aboard for an Ocean Safari that brings you face-to-face with the raw beauty of Cape Town’s Atlantic coastline. This is not just a boat trip — it’s an immersion into a world shaped by granite cliffs, swirling ocean currents, playful wildlife, and underwater forests that feel almost otherworldly.
Our expert team will guide you through secret bays, seal colonies, dramatic rock formations, and rich feeding grounds where dolphins and seabirds often gather.
Whether you’re joining us to snorkel or to enjoy the spectacle from the deck, this experience reveals a side of Cape Town few ever see.
Snorkelling in the African Seaforest
Dive Into One of Earth’s Most Extraordinary Ecosystems
For confident swimmers, this safari includes the opportunity to explore the iconic kelp forests of Cape Town — a living cathedral of swaying golden fronds, tiny endemic sharks, darting fish, starfish, and colourful marine invertebrates.
Guided by professionals, you’ll spend 10–40 minutes in the water depending on the day’s conditions. Every snorkel session reveals something different — no two experiences are ever the same.
QUICK INFO
Location:
Hout Bay
Price:
R3150 per person
Duration:
4 Hours
Transfer: Transfers can be arranged at R850 per person.
Ocean Safari
Your 4-Hour Ocean Safari
Your journey begins with a coastal cruise past the towering landscapes of the Peninsula. From there, conditions permitting, you’ll have the chance to slip into the water and explore the Great African Seaforest — a breathtaking underwater realm alive with colour and movement.
KEY FEATURES
- Ages 10+
- Ability to swim required
- Weight limit: 120kg
- Snorkeling optional
- All equipment supplied
- Route & timing are dependent
SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
- Snorkelling through the Great African Seaforest
- Viewing Cape Fur Seals in the harbour
- Duiker Island Seal Colony — one of Africa’s largest
- Chapman’s Peak’s dramatic sea cliffs
- Maori Bay with the BOS 400 shipwreck
- The Twelve Apostles mountain backdrop
- Seal haul-outs at Strawberry Rocks
- Encounters with dolphins, whales, penguins & seabirds
- Guided by passionate, qualified ocean professionals
FAQ / SAFETY
Why don’t we snorkel at the seal colony?
Although Cape Fur Seals are naturally curious and usually very relaxed around snorkelers, we avoid entering the water at the main colony to prevent contact with any seals that may be unwell or showing abnormal behaviour. This ensures a safe, ethical wildlife encounter.
Will I see sharks?
Yes — but only small, harmless species unique to South Africa’s coastline. These include the puffadder, leopard, pyjama, and dark shysharks. They are beautiful, shy, and completely safe to snorkel with.
Great Whites are not seen in these areas.
The shallow, kelp-protected waters simply aren’t a place they frequent.
Do I need previous snorkelling experience?
Not at all. Our guides walk you through everything, from equipment to techniques, ensuring you feel supported and confident.
SPECIES YOU MAY ENCOUNTER
Wildlife You Might See
Common Sightings (Most Trips)
- Cape Fur Seals
- Heaviside’s Dolphins
- Cape, Bank & White-Breasted Cormorants
- Hartlaub’s & Kelp Gulls
- West Coast Rock Lobsters
- Sea Urchins, starfish & coastal fish species
- Swift, Common & Sandwich Terns
Occasional Sightings
- Elephant Seals
- Four species of endemic shyshark
- Sunfish
- African Penguins
- Humpback Whales (seasonal)
- Dusky & Common Dolphins
- Common Octopus
- Giant Petrels & Sabine’s Gulls
FACILITIES
What You’ll Find at Our Dive Base
- Hot showers & clean changing facilities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Relaxed lounge area
- On-site Ocean Shop
- Café & coffee shop next door
- Friendly, experienced staff on hand to help
PRICE & CANCELLATION POLICY
The price for the Ocean Safari Tour is from R3150 per person, excluding hotel pick-ups and drop-off transfers.
Cancellation Policy:
- 16-30 days before start date: 50% cancellation fee
- 15 days before start date: 100% cancellation fee (for groups of more than 4)
- Less than 7 days: 75% cancellation fee
- 48 hours before start date: 100% cancellation fee
In the event of cancellation by ASEC, no cancellation fee will apply, and deposits will be refunded. Please note: As of October 1, 2023, card transaction fees will not be refunded by the bank. Refunds will be issued minus the card fee.
Ready to Explore Cape Town’s Wild Side?
Join us for an unforgettable adventure across the ocean wilderness of the Cape Peninsula.