The South African Whale Centre will create an unforgettable experience connecting people, science, and place.

Here’s how:

Ocean Education for All

We believe learning should be exciting, hands-on, and accessible. Our immersive experiences, school programmes, and guided tours will make oceans come alive — helping visitors of all ages discover the wonder of whales and the importance of protecting our oceans.

Supporting Research

The SAWC will be the home of the MRI Whale Unit, from where it will conduct vital research on southern African whales and the wider marine ecosystem. From long-term population monitoring to public engagement and educational programs, the MRI Whale Unit will turn research into real-world conservation

Building a Community Around Conservation

We are proudly rooted in Hermanus — a town shaped by the sea. By connecting locals and visitors through events, job creation, and tourism experiences, we ensure that marine conservation also strengthens the community and supports sustainable development.

Timeless in design

A building with quiet elegance — shaped by the rhythm of the sea and grounded in its landscape. It should feel rooted yet contemporary, beautiful yet functional, and serve as a landmark for locals and visitors alike.

Flexible and Future-Ready

The way we learn, share information, and engage with the world is changing rapidly. The new centre must be designed to adapt —, dynamic exhibition spaces  and digital infrastructure that allows us to grow and evolve with emerging technologies.

A Beacon of Sustainability

Our message of conservation must start with the building itself. This means using sustainable materials, drawing on renewable energy, minimizing water use, and embedding climate-responsive design throughout. The new Whale Centre will walk its talk, leading by example in environmental responsibility.

A Space for Community, Science, and Discovery

We envision a welcoming, inclusive space where students learn, scientists collaborate, children play, and families connect — all with the ocean as their backdrop. It must be a living, breathing space that serves everyone from international researchers to local school groups.

With the right investment in infrastructure, the South African Whale Centre can become a global example of how architecture, conservation, and community come together to shape a better future — for whales, for people, and for the planet.