Southern Africa has some of the best whale and dolphin watching opportunities in
the world, with over half of the world’s species being found in our waters. A new bookWatching Whales & Dolphins in Southern Africa by Scenic South Peninsula locals Noel and Belinda Ashton is an essential guide to watching the region’s more common species.
In addition to species accounts and charts that aid identification, this guide provides detailed information on cetaceans – their evolution, senses, behaviour, classification and anatomy. Multiple, clear images, both photographic and illustrated, help identify each species by showing how to read the partial signs that cetaceans usually offer, such as a flipper, tail, or even just their ‘blow’.
The book also discusses the tragic toll that hunting has had on whale populations, and the ongoing struggle to protect these majestic mammals. This is an invaluable guide for anyone wishing to know more about whales and dolphins of the region.
Book Launch
If you would like to attend the launch of their book Watching Whales & Dolphins at the Two Oceans Aquarium on Thurday, 14 June 2012 at 6:30 then contact Kim Peters of Random Struik on or
Noel Ashton, with a background in environmental and geographical science, has specialised as a whale and dolphin scientific illustrator, developing a complex process of morphological mapping.
Noel and his wife Belinda Ashton have worked towards whale and dolphin conservation through their Oceans of Africa programme. Their acclaimed Sacred Ocean anti-whaling campaign in the Two Oceans Aquarium was 
launched by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and their IFAW Whale Show is shown daily in the Whale Museum in Hermanus.
Watching Whales & Dolphins in Southern Africa by Noel and Belinda Ashton ISBN: | RRP: 130
For an interview with Noel & Belinda, cover images, and / or author photographs, contact Kim Peters at or 8.
Related articles on Scenic South
False Bay has enjoyed spectacular whale sightings in recent years. The growing population of Southern Right Whales which visit in winter are a significant tourist attraction. A few people have been lucky enough to see the Orca or Killer Whales returning to hunt dolphins in False Bay for the past four years and have shared their photos online. Click here to see them. A group of sea kayakers enjoyed a close encounter with playful Brydes Whales off Simon’s Town. Click here to read their story about being herded by Brydes whales. If you have stories to share, please email or post them in our comments box below.
KimK