Experience the Ocean Through a Scientist’s Eyes
Private ocean safaris and coastal journeys guided by working marine biologists.
Explore whales, penguins, and kelp forests — and help restore the ocean with every journey.
We’re available 24 / 7 with seasonal suggestions based on your interests.
Scientists First. Storytellers Always.
We’re not travel agents who add conservation later.
We’re marine biologists who began in the field — studying sharks, kelp forests, and coastal ecosystems across Southern Africa.
RockHopper was born from that work — to invite travellers into science-led experiences that inspire, restore, and fund real conservation - work for the Ocean.
Not a tour. A perspective.
Our team has contributed to Planet Earth III, Netflix Our Oceans, Apple TV and major research projects along South Africa’s coast.
Each experience is private, calm, and deeply connected to place — designed to reveal the stories few ever hear.
Real Scientists
Work with active conservation biologists, not tour guides.
Private Access
Whales, penguins & kelp forests — at your pace.
Direct Impact
Every booking funds shark tagging & ocean education.
Choose Your Element
By Land
Explore Cape Point, Boulders Beach penguins, and the Cape of Good Hope with a private guide.
By Sea
Whale watching, snorkel safaris, or relaxed deck viewing — fully private or shared small-group.
By Air
Scenic helicopter flights tracing whale migrations where two oceans meet.
Stories from Our Guests
1,500+ five-star reviews from travellers, artists, and scientists around the world.
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Getting to see all that Cape Town has to offer with Justin was just incredible. He took me and some of the band out to go snorkeling with seals - definitely a highlight! Not to mention a visit to the turtle aquarium and a kayak trip in Table bay. Unforgettable experiences!
Jeremiah Fraites of The Lumineers
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RockHopper is the brilliant invention of Justin Blake, who has entranced a multitude of tourists with his joyous knowledge about the riches of our coastline, and whose ‘Just On Marine’ newsletter is a fount of information.
Professor George Branch, Marine Biologist & Author
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Justin is brilliant! Thanks for teaching us of the importance of Marine Reserves and for your amazing storytelling
Kathryn Thorpe, Online guest
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Such a wonderful and memorable marine tour. Everything was exceptionally professional and perfectly planned, even beyond my expectations. I really couldn't have asked for more from my ocean experience and I cannot recommend RockHopper more highly from start to finish.
Lisa Murray
As seen in Financial Times | BBC Studios | Forbes | Vogue
Conservation Impact
Your booking funds the RockHopper Fund Non Profit’s work: shark tagging, acoustic tracking, and ocean-education programs for coastal youth.
When you travel with RockHopper, you help protect the ecosystems you visit.
This Season’s Signature Safari - Whales & Wine
November25 - March26
Whale superpods, fine wine, and a scientist’s insight — all in one extraordinary day.
Start Your Ocean Safari
Tell us what interests you — whales, penguins, sharks, or simply the wild Cape coastline.
We’ll design your perfect day, guided by a marine biologist.
We reply within a few hours — 24 / 7.
Featured by BBC, Forbes, The New York Times and partners such as Belmond Mount Nelson.
Private • Bespoke • Science-Led • Conservation-Funded
