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Writer's pictureAnimal Ocean

Table Mountain National Park: Ocean Safari Report 10 October 2024



Big jumps and Shipwreck snorkeling


We set off on an ocean safari on a grey, calm, and beautiful day in Hout Bay. The skies were cool and overcast, with a slight swell. Our first stop was to observe the Cape fur seals, where we discussed their skull anatomy, fur, and biology. We got close-up views of these fascinating creatures before crossing over to Chapman’s Peak, where we were delighted to spot Heaviside’s dolphins playing and resting in the cold waters of the kelp forest. The dolphins were once again near the shore, much to the enjoyment of bystanders who marveled at their presence.


As we headed back toward the cliff jumping site, we noticed a bag perched high on the cliffs. It seemed as if someone had been camping near the Cape cormorant colony. We climbed up to investigate and found that the bag was filled with trash, likely left behind by someone on an overnight adventure. After removing it, we continued to our usual cliff jump spot. The calm sea allowed us to easily climb the rocks, explore hidden rock pools, admire sea anemones, and take in the rugged beauty of the shoreline. We had some great jumps from different heights, and our guests from France and the UK were amazed by the chance to access this untouched part of the coastline.


With the small swell, we took advantage of the conditions and continued on to Duiker Island, where we encountered Buffel, the resident elephant seal, fast asleep on the rocks. The Cape fur seals gave him a wide berth, knowing well enough to keep their distance from the massive seal. We also watched as the Bank cormorants continuously brought nest materials, carefully choosing red algae to build their nests—a fascinating glimpse into their nesting behavior.





We carried on to Maori Bay, stopping along the way to observe a group of feeding Common terns. At first glance, there seemed to be nothing under the surface, but when I slipped into the water, I spotted a school of yellowtail, a thrilling sight for me as it was my first time seeing them so close to the wreck of the BOS 400 shipwreck. We had an incredible snorkel session around the wreck, swimming between the rusted metal plates, and marveled at the West Coast rock lobsters and kelp forest. Visibility was a good 10 meters, and the water was 15°C—remarkably warm for this area.


Before heading back to the island, we spotted Buffel still sound asleep. On our way back to the beach, we passed the Heaviside’s dolphins once more before returning to the harbor. It was a fantastic day of adventure, and our guests loved warming up with hot showers and hot chocolate afterward, before continuing to explore the rest of Cape Town.


The ocean is such a unique and special place, and it's a real privilege to share these experiences and stories with our guests. I can’t wait for the next adventure while the swell remains calm! Thank you for following along with our journey—be sure to share our stories and pictures with your friends!




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