About Us

Empowering Ocean Conservation

At RockHopper, we connect people to the ocean through scientist-led experiences that inspire action and hope. From online team-building sessions to immersive marine adventures, every experience funds our mission to restore ocean health.

Inspired by the resilience of the rockhopper penguin, we bring over 14 years of expertise in marine science, tourism, and conservation to create impactful, solutions-driven initiatives.

Join us as we rewild our seas, celebrate ocean life, and inspire a community of ocean champions.

Our Mission

Through collaborations with researchers, activists, and communities, we deliver science-based, immersive interactions—whether online or in Cape Town’s iconic kelp forests—to empower you as a steward of the sea.

With 16 years of experience in marine science, tourism, and conservation, RockHopper is committed to ocean restoration.

Our interactive experiences inspire action and hope, connecting participants directly to conservation efforts.

Every booking funds vital marine projects, turning your engagement into meaningful impact.

By supporting RockHopper, you contribute to groundbreaking initiatives, including:

Advocating for and implementing measures to safeguard important places for our remaining apex predators.
Equipping individuals and communities with the skills to lead local conservation efforts.
Creating inclusive opportunities for everyone to connect with the ocean, regardless of background.
Stimulating curiosity to a wider audience.

RockHopper Experiences

Interactive Online Ocean Safaris

Dive into the world of ocean conservation without leaving your home!

Led by shark scientist Justin Blake, our virtual team-building sessions combine fascinating insights into marine ecosystems with interactive discussions designed to boost team morale and inspire action.

Perfect for small teams worldwide.

Join a Virtual Ocean Safari

Immersive Adventures in Cape Town

For hands-on explorers, we offer unforgettable experiences by land, air, and sea:

- Kelp Forest Snorkeling: Discover Cape Town’s renowned underwater landscapes, featured in *My Octopus Teacher*.

- Scenic Coastal Journeys: Embark on a 135 km road trip through breathtaking landscapes, with opportunities to spot wildlife.

- Helicopter Tours: Soar over Walker Bay, a world-famous whale heritage site, and enjoy a wine and food pairing experience.

Explore Ocean Tours

“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: Living Shores and Two Oceans

Justin Blake

I’ve been captivated by fish and the ocean since I can remember.

A fascination for sharks & large open ocean spaces drew me to a vibrant reserve in Mozambique, and a little-understood population of large fish & sharks. Once there I, quite simply, fell in love with this exceptional place.

I’ve spent my career trying to better share her wild stories. Working on scientific projects, Blue Chip documentaries from BBC’s Planet Earth III to Netflix’s Our Planet and Our Oceans and 10,000hrs in my Online Experience - pioneering new ways to discover & share the secret lives of sharks with the world.

Now, at RockHopper, I’m proud to work alongside an amazing community - providing experiences that connect global communities to local.