Following several days of pumping SE winds the water on Cape Town's Atlantic seaboard was looking about as good as it gets: 20m viz and a chilly 10 deg C. A few enthusiastic divers and photographers jumped onto a boat and headed out into the blue to see if we could get some good dolphin interactions. We saw some common dolphins on the hunt but they were not interested in stopping. The dusky dolphins however were a different story and spent almost half an hour with us allowing for a stunning interaction. While in the water a Brydes whale swam under me but I was not quick enough to get a photo. The excitement on board was infectious and we all agreed the day out had been worth it. On the way home some more dolphins appeared and we jumped back into the water. Finning fast and following some of the dolphins I saw a huge cloud of white water ahead and the next moment I was face to face with two 30 ton humpback whales. This was my first time in the water with a really big whale and I was blown away by how big these animals actually are up close. The law in South Africa prohibits approaching closer than 300m to a whale so we swam back to the boat, but not before taking a few photos of course! On the way back we stopped at Seal Island for a quick dip. So one boat ride out and we were able to dive with three different mammals in one afternoon, not too shabby for a day out in the Cape!
Magnificent; just booked my first trip back 'home' to SA in more than 10 years for next August, can't wait!
Beautiful shots!
I'm planning my first trip "home" too-but in 2011 to catch the Sardine Run. Was planning 2010, but the World Cup has seem that idea off!
Adam
What a lucky man You are Jean!
I think that those who never hesitate to jump in to the waves, to get a shot or two, get rewarded eventually. Looks like Your afternoon trip was this time really worth it - good job!
Karel
Sounds like a great day indeed. The shot of the dolphin with the whale in the background is sweet.
Nice shots ;-)
Very nice!
Love diving in south Africa. Looks like I'll be there for about three months next year.
Looking forward big time to that.
Cheers for the images, great stuff.
Mark.
Jean, it's only illegal if you swim toward the whales. If it comes to you, they can't prosecute
Plus I'm sure "talking to the stone" is possible for the marine police no?
Jean,
Very nice shots. My family and I planning to visit old friend at Capetown next year. The thought of more than 20 hrs of traveling with kids make me think twice. But your shots make me want to go there.
