MSD Members visit the Beacon of Hope Article by Sea T.E. Baloyi and Photos by Sea N.N.N. Dotwana Enquiries: 021 787 4697

Cape Point is situated at the conjunction of two of the earth’s most contrasting water masses - the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Mozambique current on the East Coast. On 05 October 2012, Naval Military Skills Development (MSD) members were afforded the opportunity to visit one of the magnificent wonders of the world, Cape Point. The junior ratings were accompanied by WO1 K.G. Swartz and Lt N.A. April who monitored and ensured the everything were in place as planned.

 
MSD members posing for the camera

The Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Ocean. Geographically however, the Indian Ocean joins the Atlantic Ocean at Cape Agulhas National Park. The strategic position of the Cape of Good Hope between two major ocean currents ensures a rich diversity of marine life. There is a difference between the sea life in the west of Cape Point compared to the east point due to the distinctly differing sea temperature. The area offers excellent vantage points for whale viewing and seals and dolphins may also be seen.

A beautiful scenery of the mountain top and the sea	Lt N.A. April, WO1 K.G. Swartz and catering personnel demonstrating their braaing talents

The Table Mountain Range has a diverse habitat, ranging from rocky mountain tops to long beaches and open seas. Cape of Good Hope is home to at least 250 species of birds and has a wide variety of small animals such as lizards, snakes, tortoises and insects (etc). MSD members engaged in a number of activities during their outing such as following hiking trails and observing the magnificent scenery of the Park. They also undertook and got a view from a global atmosphere watch station engaging in bird, dolphin and whale watching. They then visited historical monuments and old buildings and rode a mini train that toured within the Table Mountain premises covering the larger area of the beautiful landscape site. The most memorable experience was when MSD members overlooked Table Mountain from the Old Light House. “What an astonishing view that was”.  Some MSD members enjoyed coffee and light snacks at the Two Oceans Restaurant and even purchased goods at curio shops.

MSD ladies having fun	MSD members jumping for joy at Table Mountain
MSD members taking a stroll down the beach	The beautiful scenery where MSD members had lunch

To wrap-up the occasion MSD members enjoyed a braai organised and prepared by our very own naval hospitality personnel, ensuring that all the MSD members had a great filling meal and appetizers. The trip proved to be successful especially because all MSD members were on their best behaviour and hoped to have many more outings in future.

 Thumbs up to the organisers for an outing well arranged!