The Plettenberg Hotel, part of the of The Liz McGrath Collection and a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, revealed that it has seen an increased demand from guests wanting the whale and dolphin experience.
The hotel is celebrating after Plettenberg Bay was certified as an official Whale Heritage Site (WHS), making them one of only 3 in South Africa.
As of early 2025, Plettenberg Bay has become South Africa’s third UNESCO‑affiliated Whale Heritage Site, joining The Bluff (KwaZulu‑Natal) and Algoa Bay (Eastern Cape). Globally, fewer than ten destinations hold this prestigious status, which recognizes communities that actively protect, cherish and responsibly showcase local cetacean populations.
- Conservation and Community
Plettenberg Bay’s designation underscores ongoing collaboration between marine biologists, local fishers and tourism operators to safeguard critical feeding and nursery grounds within the adjacent Tsitsikamma and Robberg Marine Protected Areas. - Educational Outreach
Accredited operators now offer certified whale‑watching experiences, complete with interpretive briefings on species identification, migratory patterns and conservation best practices.
Impact on Guest Experience at The Plettenberg Hotel
Elevated Demand for Marine Encounters
General Manager Melissa Theron reports a clear uptick in bookings from marine‑enthusiast travelers seeking immersive, low‑impact wildlife experiences. “Our guests arrive eager to witness cetaceans in their natural realm,” says Theron, “and leave with a deeper appreciation for ocean stewardship.”
Signature On‑Site Whale & Dolphin Watching
- Panoramic Viewing Points
Guests can spot whales and dolphins directly from two pool decks, private balconies and the open‑air restaurant terrace. - Whale‑Watching Bell Ceremony
A beloved ritual sees the first sighting of the day celebrated by the ringing of a polished brass bell, uniting onlookers in shared wonder.
Commitment to Sustainability
The hotel’s eco‑initiatives—ranging from solar‑heated water systems to beach clean‑ups—align seamlessly with Plettenberg Bay’s Whale Heritage Site principles. Personalized guest briefings encourage responsible viewing distances and “leave‑no‑trace” ethics.
The Wider Garden Route Marine Mosaic
Positioned between the Tsitsikamma and Robberg Marine Protected Areas, Plettenberg Bay boasts one of the richest assemblages of marine megafauna on South Africa’s coastline. Key species include:
- Humpback Whales migrating from Polar feeding grounds
- Southern Right Whales, notable for close coastal calving
- Bryde’s Whales year‑round residents favoring warmer waters
- Orcas, occasional apex predators frequenting deeper channels
- Indo‑Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins, forming large, sociable pods
Visitors also glimpse endemic fynbos on the bordering Tsitsikamma Mountains, framing each seaward vista with lush, indigenous flora.
Looking Ahead: Marine Tourism Reinvented
Post‑COVID‑19 travel trends reveal a pronounced shift toward sustainable, nature‑centric journeys. Plettenberg Bay’s Whale Heritage Site status is poised to amplify this momentum, attracting discerning guests who prioritize environmental integrity alongside luxury.
“This accolade cements Plett’s reputation as a responsible marine tourism destination,” adds Theron. “We anticipate even more travelers drawn not just to observe wildlife, but to actively support its preservation.”
Between expertly guided boat excursions and spontaneous sightings from the hotel’s decks, The Plettenberg offers an authentic gateway to one of the world’s most celebrated marine habitats—where every bell ring heralds a moment of connection with the ocean’s giants
Related Content
