Our vision
The South African Whale Centre (SAWC) is a bold public initiative committed to marine education, conservation, and the cultural celebration of whales in South Africa. Located in the heart of Hermanus—internationally recognised for its land-based whale watching—the Centre will offer engaging exhibitions, learning programmes, and immersive visitor experiences designed to inspire ocean stewardship and deepen public understanding of marine ecosystems.
Through this project, we aim to create a globally relevant, locally rooted institution that strengthens tourism, supports environmental awareness, and preserves the region’s heritage for generations to come.
Header photograph of a Brides Whale courtecy of Jean Tresfon.
About the project
The SAWC is being developed as a world-class education and visitor experience centre focused on whales, marine life, and South Africa’s unique coastal biodiversity. The new Centre will include state-of-the-art exhibitions, interactive learning spaces, curated events, youth outreach, and conservation storytelling.
The project will transform the existing Whale House into a modern facility that integrates science, art, culture, and tourism—bringing tangible social, educational, and economic benefits to Hermanus and beyond.
Project Partners
The success of the SAWC relies on strong partnerships across government, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
Founding Partners
SAWC Non-Profit Company (NPC) – Responsible for leading the development of the Centre.
Directors of the SAWC NPC:
- Grahame Lindop
- Delana Finlayson
- Andrew Finlayson
- With support of scientific advisor Dr Els Vermeulen
Academic Research Partner – University of Pretoria
Mammal Research Institute (MRI) Whale Unit – Providing scientific guidance, research input, and conservation expertise and will have their head office in the new Centre.
The Old Harbour Trust
Custodian of the building and historic site.
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS)
Government partner providing operational and staff support.
Overstrand Municipality
Supporting local heritage preservation and tourism development.
Management and Governance
To ensure strong accountability and sustainability, the Centre is governed by a multi-layered structure:
SAWC NPC Board
Provides oversight, strategic direction, and fiduciary accountability.
Project Steering Committee
Oversees the development and capital project phase.
Executive Director (to be appointed)
Will lead Centre operations, staff, programming, and fundraising.
Specialist Advisory Panels
Focused on exhibitions, education, research, and community engagement.
SAWC
Project Timeline
The development of the South African Whale Centre is being undertaken as a multi-phase project led by the SAWC Non-Profit Company (NPC). The implementation plan balances design excellence, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable financial management to ensure successful delivery of a world-class marine education and conservation facility.
April 2025 – September 2026
Phase 1:
Planning, Design and Approvals
The initial phase focuses on finalising designs, securing planning approvals, and establishing the full project team, including key professional service providers
April 2025 – September 2026
Phase 2:
Fundraising and Financial Mobilisation
Parallel to Phase 1, a multi-channel fundraising strategy will be finalized and implemented targeting institutional donors, government partners, and the public. This includes the SAWC Ambassador Programme (100 Club), public-facing campaigns, and philanthropic partnerships. The goal is to secure the capital budget in tranches that allow construction and fit-out to proceed efficiently.
September 2026 – September 2028
Phase 3:
Construction and Exhibition Development
Once approvals and minimum capital are secured, construction of the centre will begin. The current Whale House Museum will need to be vacated and demolished. During this phase, the team will also finalise the curation and fabrication of interpretive content, displays, digital media and learning environments.
January 2028 – October 2028
Phase 4:
Operational Readiness
While construction is underway, the operational team will be required to finalise a detailed operations plan covering governance, staffing, programming, ticketing, partnerships, and sustainability. Staff recruitment and training will need to begin in parallel, and a public opening campaign will be prepared. Key policies on education access, research partnerships, and community involvement will be finalised.
End of 2028
Target Opening Date
The South African Whale Centre aims to open its doors in 2028, welcoming local communities, school groups, international visitors, researchers, and ocean lovers from across the world to experience an inspiring, world-class centre dedicated to whales, marine conservation, and ocean literacy.
Budget Overview
The total project budget is R 140 million:
| Building cost | R 60 million |
| Exhibit design and fabrication | R 30 million |
| Education and outreach programming | R20 million |
| Professional services and operational setup | R 20 million |
| Contingency and statutory compliance | R 10 million |
Project Funding
The SAWC will be funded through a blended finance model combining:
Government grants
From national and provincial departments supporting culture, tourism, and education
Philanthropic donations
From individuals, foundations, and international development partners
Corporate sponsorships
Including exhibit and programme branding opportunities
In-kind contributions
Such as professional services, materials, and media support
Public fundraising campaigns
Engaging the local community and visitors in supporting the vision
The SAWC NPC is actively engaging donors and sponsors. Transparent financial reporting and regular updates will be provided to all funders and stakeholders.
Operations after Completion
Upon completion, the SAWC will transition into a fully operational, publicly accessible facility managed by the SAWC NPC. Key priorities will include:
- Delivering high-quality educational programmes for schools and visitors
- Hosting exhibitions, events, and public talks on marine life and conservation
- Maintaining strong partnerships with research institutions and the tourism sector
- Ensuring financial sustainability through a mix of ticket sales, retail, partnerships, and donor support
A comprehensive business plan is currently under development. This plan will detail the Centre’s operational model, staffing structure, income strategy, and long-term sustainability framework.
You can contribute by donating to the new South African Whale Centre’s development.
You can also become an SAWC Ambassador or create awareness about marine conservation.
Join our vision
Our location in Hermanus next to the Old Harbour.