28 EYEBROW of the surrounding Western Cape region making it a top destination for nature enthusiasts to explore. “Cape Town and the Western Cape is famed for its natural beauty, with Table Mountain recognised as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, highlighting its global appeal,” says Stander. “The region’s charm extends beyond the mountain to its nature reserves and coastline, which feature 31 Blue Flag beaches – an international eco-label for cleanliness and sustainability.” Cruise passengers can participate in a variety of shore excursions to explore the cultural and natural landmarks of Cape Town. “Shore excursions from Cape Town contribute significantly to the region’s economy,” says Stander. “In 2024, a large number of cruise passengers participated in these excursions, boosting the local community. Popular excursions include visits to both Robben Island and Boulders Beach, the latter of which is home to African penguins.” Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Cape Winelands, an area renowned for its historic estates and vineyards, as well as its multitude of world-class restaurants that offer fine dining experiences. “South Africa’s wine industry is a significant contributor to tourism, with wine tourism generating a total contribution of R9.3 billion ($568 million) to GDP in 2022,” says Stander. “Visitors are captivated by the scenic landscapes and the opportunity to enjoy wine-tasting tours paired with gourmet dining experiences. The Winelands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture and culinary excellence, making them an essential stop for those seeking a unique and indulgent experience close to the city.” Stander further adds that there are a variety of attractions available in the Western Cape for more adventurous travellers to experience. “The Western Cape is a hub for outdoor adventure, attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe,” she says. “It’s home to the newly launched K3 zipline in Caledon, the world’s longest zipline, unveiled on World Tourism Day 2024. Adventure tourism in the region continues to expand, in line with the consistent growth of the global sector, which is projected to reach $4.6 trillion by 2032.” Cruise lines have taken note of Cape Town’s unique and diverse appeal in the last decade and the destination has rapidly grown into a strategic hub that serves as a “ The Western Cape is a hub for outdoor adventure, attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe” COVER STORY Cruise guests can explore the Western Cape on a variety of adventerous excursions, including visits to nearby game reserves
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzQ1NTk=