From orcas to ocean thrills: experience wonder on a West Coast ocean safari.
Out where the Atlantic kisses South Africa’s rugged West Coast, Expert Tours, operating out of Langebaan and St Helena Bay, offers Atlantic Ocean Safaris—a rare ocean experience. As a legally permitted whale and dolphin watching operator in the region, they’ve set the gold standard in marine ecotourism with a bold blend of adrenaline, insight and ecological respect.
At the helm is legendary marine conservationist Rainer Schimpf, who made waves (quite literally) in 2019 after a Bryde’s whale unintentionally scooped him into its mouth—yes, that really happened. Drawn by the raw, untamed potential of the West Coast, Rainer relocated to Langebaan in 2020 and partnered with BBBEE-accredited Fairy Connection to create a business rooted in sustainability, education and inclusive growth.
The crew reads like a who’s who of oceanic prowess. Silke Schimpf, marine guide and world-travelled photographer, captures the pulse of the ocean with every frame. And Siggi Weiss, Namibian-born sailor and operations wizard, ensures every voyage out of Mykonos Marina is seamless, safe and spectacular.
Their tours are nothing short of epic. From one-day whale-watching sprints to ten-day odysseys, expect heart-thumping encounters with southern right whales, humpbacks or the elusive orcas. Birders can geek out on pelagic species rarely seen from shore. Feeling brave? Snorkel with Mako and blue sharks, fin-to-fin, in their own blue backyard.
And then there’s the super pod: hundreds of humpback whales moving as one, twisting through turquoise in a frenzy of movement and sound. It’s surreal. And it’s drawing a wave of ecotourism to a coastline once overlooked.
Film crews are also welcome—Rainer is, after all, the man who documented the first-ever orca predation on dolphins, and a disabled orca thriving thanks to the loyalty of its pod. These aren’t just sea stories—they’re scientific milestones.
Expert Tours offer front-row seats to the raw, wild theatre of the Atlantic with their Atlantic Ocean Safaris. And it’s nothing short of extraordinary.
Book: atlanticoceansafaris.com; Whatsapp 072 1420420. Prices pp for Atlantic Ocean Safari 2hrs R1 450; 4 hrs R1 900; Seal Island ECO Cruise 2 hrs R650; 4 hrs R950; Langebaan to St Helena Cape Padrone Return 2 hrs R550; 4 hrs R950; Ocean Safari 6 hrs R2 550. Full charter for all safaris on request.
