Arrival in Cape Town

2 April 2025

Arrival in Cape Town

The morning of our arrival was misty. As we neared the traffic lanes approaching Cape Town’s harbor, we saw more ships in those final hours than we had during the entire journey up until that point. The dense cluster of vessels was a clear sign of the busy harbor ahead, with plenty of activity on land. After months in peaceful isolation, we were now preparing ourselves for the vibrant energy of the big city. 

As we neared the harbor entrance, just a few miles away, the mist began to lift, and we could finally start seeing houses. And of course, the iconic Table Mountain! Before we could enter the breakwaters and make our way into port, our patience was tested one final time. We had to wait for the pilot to guide us in. When the traffic center radioed us, saying, “The pilot will be there shortly,” the more-than-hour-long wait felt even longer, as we floated just in front of the harbor. So close, yet it seemed to take forever!

Once the pilot was on board, we were cleared to proceed to our mooring spot at the famous Waterfront, a modern and tourist-friendly area of Cape Town. While many of us were relieved to be in port again, there was still a sense of longing for the sea—a feeling familiar to many sailors. After we all took a taxi to the immigration office on the other side of the port, it was time to begin exploring the city. That evening, we gathered for a small arrival celebration with music and drinks. Slowly, we all started to go our separate ways, hopeful that our paths would cross again one day.