The Algoa Bay Whale Festival 2026 Returns with an Inspiring and Dynamic Programme.
- 60 minutes ago
- 4 min read
The Algoa Bay Whale Festival 2026 returns with an inspiring and dynamic programme celebrating our marine environment, rich coastal heritage, and the annual humpback whale migration along our shores, with this year’s spotlight on exploration, science, and the mysteries of the deep.
Set against the picturesque Willows Resort and Conference Centre, this two-day event blends conservation, exploration, cultural expression, family-friendly activities, and local creativity into an unforgettable experience.
Saturday, 6 June 2026
The day begins with the new Aweh-Let’s Swim “Rocking the Whale Tail” Ocean Swim, outdoor walk-and-talk experiences, where nature enthusiasts and curious minds can join guided intertidal conservation and historical walks highlighting the importance of protecting our marine ecosystems and coastal heritage. These will be led by Nature Guide Graeme Pienaar (Saturday only) and Historian Graham Taylor (Saturday and Sunday).
Indoor talks will feature an exceptional line-up of speakers, including:
Dr Paul Trixier: Ecology and Conservation of Subantarctic Killer Whales of the Southern Indian Ocean
Prof Pierre Pistorius: An Underwater Perspective on African Penguins
Antonia Immerz: Giants of the Oceans
Aaron Barnes: Killer Whales of Southern Africa: Past, Present and Future
Lloyd Edwards and the Raggy Charters Team: The Addo Submarine Canyon – A Year of Discovery (Saturday and Sunday)
At the heart of this year’s festival is the Addo Canyons Research and Exploration Cruise Showcase, offering a rare insight into one of South Africa’s most significant and lesser-known marine ecosystems. Visitors will discover ongoing research, remarkable biodiversity, and the vital role these submarine canyons play in supporting whales, dolphins, and deep-sea life.
Sunday, 7 June 2026
Guests will be welcomed by the uplifting rhythms of African Drumbeat drummers and marimbas, setting the tone for a day of connection, celebration, and discovery.
Families can enjoy:
Interactive activities from Kid’s Perfect Events
Virtual reality experiences
Jumping castles
Conservation and tourism exhibits
Artisan and small business stalls
Food trucks featuring a variety of flavours
Visitors are encouraged to engage with interactive displays from:
Bayworld
SANCCOB
Waste Trade Recycling Project
Live performances from local musicians will create a festive atmosphere throughout the day, culminating in a spectacular fire-dancing finale by the Fyre Team, accompanied by live drumming under the stars.
Whether you're drawn by the ocean, inspired by science and exploration, passionate about conservation, or simply looking for a meaningful family day out, the Algoa Bay Whale Festival 2026 promises an unforgettable experience that brings the community together to celebrate, explore, and protect our ocean.
Festival Highlights – Sunday, 7 June
07:00 – 10:30
Raggy Charters Sunrise Whale Watching Tour(Pre-booking required. Limited space. Subject to weather and sea conditions.)
Lecture Room & Main Stage
09:45
Graham Taylor: Coastal History Walk and Talk (R50 per person)
11:00
Lloyd Edwards and the Raggy Charters Team:
The Addo Submarine Canyon – A Year of Discovery
African Drumbeat Experience (08:30 – 11:00)
08:30 – 09:30: African Drumbeat Welcome
09:30 – 10:15: Interactive Drumming Session
10:20 – 11:00: Interactive Drumming Session
Live Music on the Main Stage (11:00 – 19:00)
11:00 – 11:45: Kerry Hiles & Kristo Zondagh
12:00 – 12:45: Claire North
13:00 – 13:45: Kendal Beadon
14:00 – 14:45: Simon Shaw & Jame VDM
15:00 – 15:45: Elizabeth Kayne
16:00 – 16:45: Jaco Ras
17:00 – 17:45: Claire North & Russel Sneyd
18:15 – 19:00: Jack & Jill
Festival Finale
17:30 – 18:30
Fyre Faeries Fire Dancing & Drummers
All-Day Activities (08:30 – 16:00)
Cash bar (open until 19:00)
The Willows Spin and Win
Train Tour and Show House
Indoor and outdoor exhibition stalls
Indoor and outdoor craft markets
Kid’s Perfect Events Virtual Reality and Jumping Castles
Food trucks
Waste Trade Recycling Project
Swim GQ Snorkel and Float Fest at the tidal pools
Photographic exhibition featuring images from Algoa Bay by Lloyd Edwards and Jake Keeton of Raggy Charters
Pre-Festival Events
28 May
16:00 – Press Launch and Photographic ExhibitionBoardwalk Mall Atrium
Cheese, wine and live music for invited media, exhibitors, stallholders and guests.
29–31 May
Photographic Exhibition Boardwalk Mall Atrium
6 June
08:30 – Aweh-Let’s Swim “Rocking the Whale Tail” Ocean SwimRegistration closes on 2 June 2026.
6 June
08:45 – Raggy Charters Educational DayThe Willows Resort
An engaging day of marine education for learners and ocean enthusiasts, featuring expert speakers.
Food and refreshments available from:
Lincoln Coffee Co.
Grillicious Food Truck
Festival Bar
Educational Walks, Talks and Presentations
09:00
Graeme Pienaar: Coastal Vegetation Walk and Talk (R50 per person)
10:15
Graham Taylor: Coastal History Walk and Talk (R50 per person)
10:15
Dr Paul Trixier:
Ecology and Conservation of Subantarctic Killer Whales of the Southern Indian Ocean
11:30
Prof Pierre Pistorius:
Using Animal-Borne Cameras to Study Penguin Foraging Behaviour and Ecosystem Processes
12:45
Antonia Immerz:
Giants of the Ocean: Science and Conservation in a Changing World
14:00
Aaron Barnes:
Killer Whales of Southern Africa: Past, Present and Future
15:15
Lloyd Edwards and the Raggy Charters Team:
The Addo Submarine Canyon – A Year of Discovery
Join Us in Celebrating, Educating and Protecting Our Oceans
The Algoa Bay Whale Festival is more than an event — it is an opportunity to come together and celebrate marine life while promoting ocean conservation. With a diverse programme catering to all ages and interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
For more, visit: https://www.raggycharters.co.za/
Comments