Eco-Marine Village - Waterfront Hermanus

HERMANUS WHALE FESTIVAL

Visit the Eco-Marine Village

at the Hermanus Waterfront

Discover | Protect | Educate

The Eco-Marine Village is the environmental heart of the Hermanus Whale Festival and forms part of the Festival’s vision to inspire greater awareness, conservation and appreciation for our oceans and marine wildlife.

As the world’s only Eco-Marine Festival, the Hermanus Whale Festival brings together conservation organisations, marine specialists, educators, tourism partners, environmental groups and the public in an interactive space focused on learning, discovery and sustainability.

Located in the centre of the Festival grounds, the Eco-Marine Village offers visitors of all ages an opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean through educational exhibits, marine displays, interactive activities and family-friendly experiences.

What You Can Expect

🐋 Marine Big 5 Interactive Marquee

Discover the incredible Marine Big 5:

Southern Right Whales
Dolphins
Penguins
Seals
Sharks

Interactive displays and exhibits help visitors learn more about these iconic marine species and the importance of protecting their ocean habitat.

🎤 Marine & Nature Talks

Educational talks and presentations take place throughout the Festival weekend, featuring:

Marine conservation
Ocean protection
Wildlife education
Responsible tourism
Environmental awareness
Local biodiversity

The talks are designed to inspire both adults and younger audiences to play an active role in protecting our planet.

🏴‍☠️ Pirates & Mermaids Treasure Hunt

One of the Festival’s most popular family attractions!

Children can enjoy an exciting educational treasure hunt adventure inside the Eco-Marine Village while learning about marine life, recycling, conservation and ocean protection in a fun and engaging way.

Taking place inside the Eco-Marine Tent on both Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM to 2 PM, this FREE and fun-filled treasure hunt promises an exciting journey of discovery for young explorers and their families.

Motto:

DISCOVER | PROTECT | EDUCATE

♻️ Clean & Green Awareness

The Eco-Marine Village also supports the Festival’s Clean & Green initiatives, encouraging visitors to:

Reduce plastic waste
Protect marine wildlife
Recycle responsibly
Support sustainable tourism
Keep beaches and oceans clean

🌍 Environmental & Community Partnerships

The Village creates a platform for:

Conservation organisations
Eco-conscious businesses
Schools and youth groups
Marine researchers
Tourism and sustainability partners

Family-Friendly & Interactive

The Eco-Marine Village is designed for all ages, with interactive activities, educational experiences and engaging exhibits that make learning about the ocean both exciting and memorable.

Whether you are passionate about whales, marine life, conservation or simply love the ocean — the Eco-Marine Village is an experience not to be missed during the Hermanus Whale Festival.