The cold Atlantic waters off the Namib
coast harbor a wealth of marine life, including two dolphin species and a large
colony of Cape fur seals resident at Pelican Point.
The 1.3-metre-long Heaviside’s dolphin
is endemic to the west coast and sightings are 99% successful, while the larger
Atlantic bottlenose and dusky dolphins are seen less often. In season, larger
mammals like the southern right and humpback whales may be spotted, and with a
bit of luck, the mighty killer whales (orcas). Rare sightings of sunfish (mola
mola) and leatherback turtles also keep guests on the lookout.
Walvis Bay-based Mola Mola Safaris has
been conducting dolphin cruises for many years. The company has a high success
rate in tracking down the dolphins and giving clients close-up views of Cape
fur seals. Levo Tours, also based in Walvis Bay, takes guests on dolphin and
seal tours, which last for approximately four hours. A variety of birds such as
pelicans, flamingos and cormorants can be seen and wild seals are fed by hand
on the ski-boat. Fresh oysters, champagne and snacks are enjoyed at the seal
colony where dolphins join the fun around the boat. Another way to experience
the marine life around Pelican Point and Walvis Bay is through Catamaran
Charters. Conducted on one of three catamarans, the chances of encountering
dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and mola molas (sunfish) make the search for
the Marine Big 5 an adventurous excursion.