Have a whale of a time in Cape Town
May sees the start of the whale mating and calving season in South Africa when the amazing creatures swim so close to the coast it is possible to whale watch from the shore.
But to get really close to the action a boat trip is the best option and Cape Town villa holiday specialist Fleewinter – which has the widest choice of accommodation in Cape Town of any UK tour operator – can make all the necessary arrangements for whale-watching excursions before you leave the UK. Most whales in captivity die before the age of 20 whilst in the wild they can live anything up to 90.
A two hour boat trip into the bay at Hermanus – widely regarded as one of the best whale-watching spots in the world to spot Southern Rights – costs from £60 pp. The boats are licensed to go within 50m although it is not uncommon for the curious mammals to drift even closer, then shower everyone on board by slapping a mighty fin or tail on the water or even spray from their breaching!
From 1 June, Fleewinter can also organise a whale-watching boat excursion with a shark cave diving experience which, whilst perfectly safe, is not for the faint hearted!
Accommodation suggestions include Big Bay Penthouse – a two-bedroomed apartment in the trendy district of Big Bay, Bloubergstrand. The modern, stylish apartment (sleeps four) has spectacular, uninterrupted views of Table Mountain and across the ocean to Robben Island, home to the infamous jail where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for many years.
The property has shared use of a swimming pool and tennis court and is just a short walk from the beach, shops bars and restaurants. It is available throughout June and July from just £300 (4 sharing).
Another option is Seventyseven a four-bedroomed property (sleeps 8) with ocean and Table Mountain views. The house is situated in Gordon’s Bay, a small village popular with South Africans, and there are numerous nature reserves and beautiful walks in the vicinity. The renowned Stellenbosch wine region is also easily reached (10 minute drive) as is the starting point of the Garden Route. A week’s stay in May or June costs from £119 pp, based on 8 sharing.
Big Bay Penthouse is approx. 2 hours’ drive and Seventyseven approx. 1 hour’s drive from Hermanus and Fleewinter can also book flights and car hire on request (from £790 pp and £150 per week respectively).
For more information, visit: fleewinter.com
