A rare encounter unfolded at the V&A Waterfront recently when two whales, believed to be a mother and calf were spotted gliding through the busy harbour waters.

While whale sightings are becoming increasingly common along Cape Town’s coastline, seeing them venture into one of the country’s busiest working harbours remains an unusual spectacle.

A video shared by boat restoration company Aspoesterjie Adventures captured the remarkable sight of the two believed to be humpback whales gliding through the waters of the harbour, offering spectators an unforgettable glimpse of the majestic mammals.

Heather Wares, communications manager for the Two Oceans Aquarium, said whales coming into the V&A Waterfront harbour is a “relatively rare” occurrence, especially a mother and calf.

“However, when they do venture into the harbour, it is usually due to following a school of fish for sustenance purposes. Sometimes, during bad weather, marine animals make their way into the harbour for shelter.”

She added that once Port Control was alerted to the whales’ presence, all vessels operating in the harbour were notified to exercise caution and avoid any potential collisions.

WATCH THE WATERFRONT VISITOR HERE.

According to V&A Waterfront marine manager Joshio Fisher, whales were traditionally more commonly spotted along the False Bay coastline, but sightings in Table Bay have become increasingly frequent in recent years.

He said the animal showed no signs of injury and added that whales do occasionally make their way into the harbour.

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