Getting out onto the open sea
The early explorers sailing into Table Bay took in the incredible beauty of the distinctive flat-topped mountain
and the unfolding mountain chain behind stretching along the coastline, and described it as the Fairest Cape in the
circumference of the earth.
Today, tourists and locals alike can enjoy the same view, except the reclaimed foreshore and the mountain slopes are
filled with skyscrapers and the sprawling suburbs of the vibrant City of Cape Town, which has become one of the most
popular destinations in the world. Hout Bay offers spectacular scenery and trips to Sea Island. Hermanus is a base to explore the best whale-watching in the world. Gansbaai offers whales and is renown for shark adventures.
The V&A Waterfront offers a very wide choice of boat trips; most popular being the Sundowner Cruises. These 1½-hour cruises head out of the harbour and along the Atlantic Seaboard. The views of the city and mountains are superb as shadows lengthen and the sun dips majestically over the
horizon. The sunsets are often a stunning display of rainbow colours transforming the sky. If you have chosen a
sailing yacht, you will be propelled by wind in the sails and
able to sit back on deck, enjoying icy beverages served by the yacht's crew.
For less intrepid spirits there is a choice of several smaller craft which take visitors and school groups on
interesting half hour guided tours of the old Victoria and Alfred Basins, explaining their fascinating history, a
close up look of the fishing fleets and a cruise past the "seals on wheels" – the Cape Fur seals which bask
on the tyre fenders which line the harbour walls, and entertain with their gruff, gravelly bark, if they're awake.
At the other end of the scale at the V&A Waterfront is the luxurious Sea Princess – the ultimate party vessel
which can carry up to 145 passengers; with speed and comfort. It is also used for corporate entertaining and product
launches.
Another popular party choice is the cruise to Clifton, from either the V&A Waterfront or Hout Bay, where one drops anchor and has a barbeque on board. Water sports
of all types can be arranged as an optional extra.
Cruises from Hout Bay start at the picturesque harbour and move out of the Bay under the looming Karbonkelberg. Head out towards Chapman's Peak or around to Seal Island.
Hermanus is famed for the whales which visit every year, while Gansbaai is also known as the "Great White capital of the world". Learn more about these threatened and misunderstood creatures.
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