The tale of the orca buddy duo, Port and Starboard

Once upon a time, in the vast and mysterious ocean, there existed an incredible duo, Port and Starboard. Their unique and remarkable friendship fascinated all who had the luck to witness their incredible bond.

Port and Starboard, two magnificent orcas, swam side by side in perfect harmony. They were always there for each other, navigating the vastness of the ocean together. Their synchronized movements were a sight to behold, showcasing their unwavering connection.

One could not help but be captivated by their communication. It was as if they had their secret language, an unspoken understanding that only they shared. They could anticipate each other’s moves with great precision, effortlessly gliding through the water as if they were one.

Their companionship was not only apparent in their seamless coordination but also in their playful antics. Port and Starboard loved to engage in friendly competitions, racing to see who could swim the fastest or execute the most impressive acrobatic leaps. It was a display of sheer joy and a testament to the bond they shared.

But life in the ocean was not always smooth sailing for Port and Starboard. They faced challenges and obstacles head-on, just like everyone else. However, their friendship and unwavering support for each other helped them weather any storm that came their way.

Whenever one of them felt weary, the other was there to provide solace and encouragement. They reminded each other of their inner strength and resilience, giving them the courage to face whatever difficulties lay ahead.

Together, Port and Starboard embarked on countless adventures and discovered the wonders of the ocean. They explored vibrant coral reefs, encountered fascinating sea creatures, and marveled at the breathtaking beauty that surrounded them. Each new discovery deepened the bond between them, strengthening their connection.

Port and Starboard’s partnership didn’t just benefit them; it also had a positive impact on the other creatures they encountered. Their unity inspired hope, encouraging others to embrace collaboration and appreciate the power of togetherness.

In the end, the story of Port and Starboard teaches us the importance of friendship, support, and shared experiences. Their incredible journey reminds us that when we have a companion by our side, navigating life becomes easier and more meaningful. So let us cherish our friendships, just like Port and Starboard, and make the most out of the adventures that await us.

Did you know that us South Africans absolutely love watching whales? It’s true! One famous pair of orcas, named Port and Starboard, are particularly beloved and can often be spotted along our coastline. It’s pretty amazing, right?

Let me introduce you to a man named Dave Hurwitz, owner of Simon’s Town Boat Company in the Western Cape. He has been following the journey of these incredible creatures, the sea lions, for many years. Today, I had the opportunity to talk to him, and he shared some fascinating insights about these animals.

Have you ever noticed how often you see them in the area? And have you noticed how often you’ve seen them this year?

I first spotted Port and Starboard in Lüderitz in 2009, and I’ve been keeping track of their movements ever since. They’ve been sighted a total of 55 times, traveling between Lüderitz and Port Elizabeth, which seems to be the extent of their range. In 2020, up until July 10th, they’ve been spotted nine times, with seven of those sightings in False Bay.

So, how long have they been visiting Cape Town?

They made their first appearance in the Cape in 2015. They were seen once offshore Cape Point, three times in False Bay, and once in Gansbaai. I gave them the names Port and Starboard because one of their dorsal fins bends to the left while the other bends to the right. I thought it was fitting, considering that “port” and “starboard” are nautical terms for the left and right sides of a ship.

False Bay has had the most sightings since 2015, with a record-breaking 26 confirmed sightings.

Have you ever seen whales hunting sharks? How often does it happen?

I’ve actually witnessed a whale kill a bronze whaler shark (also known as a copper shark), as well as two failed attempts on ocean sunfish (also called Mola-Molas). I’ve also seen whales harassing a Bryde’s whale.

These magnificent creatures are true shark specialists, as they’re always spotted in areas where sharks are known to gather.

Which types of whales are most commonly seen in Cape Town?

The main whale species we encounter in Cape Town are Bryde’s whales, which can be spotted throughout the year. During the months of June to December, we also see humpback whales and southern right whales.

What’s the best time of day to keep an eye on the water for eager whale watchers?

Anytime is good for watching whales, whether you’re on land or in a boat. If you choose a boat, we have two trips daily from late June to November: one at 10:30 am and another at 2 pm.

If you prefer staying on land, I suggest taking a drive along the Atlantic Seaboard to Hout Bay. Then, continue along Chapman’s Peak and the False Bay coast towards Cape Point, making sure to stop at lookout points along the way. Another excellent spot to keep an eye out for whales is the Shark Spotters lookout point on Boyes Drive in Muizenberg.

I can’t wait to start giving tours again! And I have some exciting news for locals – we’re offering special rates so you can experience the beauty of False Bay and get a dose of vitamin ‘SEA’! Right now, the bay is filled with magnificent whales. You won’t want to miss it!

Images: Dave Hurwitz