About Animal Ocean
Animal Ocean has been running marine wildlife tours from Hout Bay harbour since 2009, offering visitors a rare up-close encounter with the Cape's rich coastal ecosystem. Founded by marine biologist Steve Benjamin, the company originally made its name with seal snorkelling at Duiker Island before evolving into a broader ocean safari experience focused on wildlife viewing and kelp forest exploration.
Their signature Ocean Safari departs from Hout Bay and heads out to the waters around Duiker Island, home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. The trip combines boat-based wildlife spotting — with possible sightings of dolphins, humpback whales, penguins, and sunfish — with guided snorkelling through the spectacular kelp forests that line this stretch of coast. All gear is provided, and the experience is suitable for beginners and confident swimmers alike.
Animal Ocean's marine biology heritage sets it apart from standard boat tour operators. Steve and his team bring genuine scientific knowledge to every trip, explaining the ecology of the kelp forests, the behaviour of the seals, and the significance of the Benguela Current ecosystem. It's education wrapped in adventure, and consistently one of the highest-rated marine experiences in Cape Town.
