The Knysna Forest came alive this past weekend as thousands of runners, visitors, and locals gathered for one of South Africa’s most iconic events — the Knysna Forest Marathon, held on Saturday, 5 July 2025, as part of the much-loved Knysna Oyster Festival. If you stayed at a central Knysna guesthouse like Knysna Manor House, you would have been right in the heart of the action — just a short walk from...
Beaked Whale
Posted on Sat May 17, 2014.
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching and Eco Trips' new addition to the premises of their shop front is a prime example of the Knysna brand, Naturally Knysna.
The new addition, a beautiful cast mould of a True’s Beaked whale, is currently being painted by local artist Israel Gama and proudly overlooks the jetties outside the Ocean Odyssey offices at Thesen Island Harbour Town.
According to respected professor Vic Cockcroft, Director for the Centre for Dolphin Studies, this whale, which he identified as a True’s Beaked Whale, beached near Plettenberg Bay around eight years ago. A cast mould was made and a replica of the 5.8 meter whale produced. “It is a great attraction for passers-by,” explained Evelyn Pepler, Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching and Eco Trips co-owner.
The dolphin family Ziphiidae consist of 22 species of which the Beaked whale is one. “These toothed whales are notable for their elongated beaks,” explained Evelyn. The True’s beaked whale, only identified in 1913, is one of the least known members of the family.
You will be well advised to take a walk down to the water’s edge and view the replica of this magnificent species for yourself. Well done to Evelyn and her team in recognising the importance of Naturally Knysna.
No longer do Knysna tourists have to travel to Plettenberg Bay to experience the whales up close and personal. As the official whale watching permit holder, Ocean Odyssey is the only vessel allowed to approach whales in the Knysna area. Their permit allows them to approach whales to within 50m.
For further information visit http://www.oceanodyssey.co.za
Further Reading
🏃♀️ Knysna Forest Marathon 2025: Where Nature, Community & Spirit Meet
Tue July 8, 2025
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2025 Knysna Events
Tue January 21, 2025
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What an exciting year ahead for Knysna and surrounds, with many annual and new events just around the corner. Knysna Manor House is the perfect place to base yourself, whether travelling solo, or with large groups of friends and family, we can accommodate up to thirty people, whilst still surrounding yourself with the comforts of home. https://www.visitknysna.co.za/whats-on/events/
Knysna Oyster Festival Turns 40
Tue May 30, 2023
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2023 Knysna oyster festival celebrates 40 years of family fun Knysna Municipality - 24th May 2023 Celebrating its 40th birthday this year, the popular Knysna Oyster Festival kicks off on the 30th of June with an action-packed programme! One of the longest-running festivals in South Africa, this family festival appeals to all ages.
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