Saldanha Bay

Largest natural bay in South Africa with panoramic views!

The picturesque seaside town of Saldanha is situated on the northern corner of the largest bay in South Africa. On a clear day Table Mountain can be seen from the Adam & Eve rock formation situated on the hill above Saldanha.

There is a short walking trail at Hoedjieskop in the centre of the town to a vantage point, which provides a panoramic view of the bay. The bay's ideal location makes it a paradise for water-sport enthusiasts. Its local economy is strongly dependent on fishing, mussels, seafood and the harbour trade, as well as the established steel industry.

In the past, the natural deep sheltered harbour played an important role in the long and colourful history of the area, and today it still plays a central role in the export and import for the industries of the region. Every effort is being made to balance industry in the region with the eco-fragility of the area.

Contrary to its name, Marcus Island is not really an island, as a breakwater was built betweeen the land and the island in 1976. With strong historic military links, Saldanha is also host to a naval training base and the South Africa Military Academy.

The popular SAS Saldanha Nature Reserve offers a display of wildflowers during later winter and spring, perfectly offset by a backdrop of the deep blue ocean where Southern Right Whales frolic.

There are numerous small fishing villages, holiday resorts and seaside towns. This region is known for its scenic beauty and abundant sea life.

Whales can be seen during their migration. The cold Benquela Current provides visitors with a vast selection like mussels, crayfish and line fish. The region is a bird watchers paradise.

Protea Saldanha Bay
 

The Hopefield district towards the Sandveld, is covered with wild flowers from August to mid-September.

Beautiful Women

Larus Houseboat - West Coast National Park

Just inland from the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay, one finds the azure waters of the Langebaan Lagoon, which is a focal point of the West Coast National Park. Thousands of seabirds roost on sheltered islands, pristine golden beaches stretch endlessly into the early morning mist and brooding salt marshes are home to vast concentrations of migrant waders from the northern hemisphere.

 During the spring the strandveld is embroidered with a tapestry of multi-hued flowers, while in the Postberg section many antelope are to be seen in a setting that is as unique as it is idyllic.

The lagoon

Larus Houseboat is a well-equipped houseboat moored in the calm turquoise waters of Langebaan Lagoon at Kraalbaai in the West Coast National Park. It is a two bedroom six sleeper houseboat offering an intimate getaway for couples young and old or a fun family breakaway. No boating experience is necessary as both are permanently moored.

Engela