Craig Foster, a documentary filmmaker who won an Oscar and has an affinity for the sea. Suggests some of the best underwater activities in Cape Town. He talks about whale watching in False Bay and freediving in kelp forests, among other adventures.
Cape Town Has a Strong Maritime Tradition
Situated at the southernmost tip of Africa and surrounded by the Atlantic. And Indian Oceans, Cape Town has always had strong ties with the waters that border it. It dates back to when it was used as a refuelling station for the Dutch East India Company — or even earlier to. When Khoekhoe and San Indigenous people lived off the land and sea in the region. Today, this relationship continues: Many locals are known to be active outdoors people. Who use all of the surrounding natural beauty. For instance, one can hike Lion’sn’s Head, surf at Muizenberg Beach or dive into FalBay’sy’s kelp forests — countless possibilities exist.
About Craig Foster
A filmmaker, naturalist and co-founder of the Sea Change Project, Craig Foster dives daily for 365 days a year. His work has been recognised with over 150 international awards, including an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 2020 f”r “My Octopus Teach”r.” In his latest boo”, “Amphibious Soul: Finding the Wild in a Tame Wor”d,” he explores our need to reconnect with wildness within ourselves and our relationship with nature. To him South Africa, where he grew up, “s “the heart of the wo”ld” — a place where this reconnection can be made.
Snorkeling And Freediving At Windmill Beach
Every morning, before anything else, Craig dives; that practice has changed his life more than any other physical activity ever could have done. He recommends snorkeling and free diving at Windmill Beach on The Cape Peninsula, which faces onto False Bay. This area on the side closer to Muizenberg is ideal for beginner divers because the water here is generally protected from big swells and, therefore, tends to be calmer. Also, this beach falls within a protected area. So fishing and marine harvesting are not allowed,, allowing the underwater world to flourish. Among other species of seaweed kelp fish octopuses, divers will also come across small shysharks.
Keep Warm, But Stay Safe
Sometimes, Atlantic waters can be icy; temperatures may even drop into single digits in some parts, especially along the coast. However, as much as Foster dives without wearing a wetsuit. He encourages everyone to slowly build up their tolerance to cold water. Do not rush it but rather embrace it . He points out that dopamine usually flooone’se’s system soon after they get out of such freezing situations. He loves nothing more than lying on a boulder warmed by the sun as he winds down from his dive before enjoying a traditional South African braai (BBQ) beside the ocean.
