saldanha
the cape west coast
HOW TO GET THERE
(GPS: 33 01S 17 57E)Off the R27, past Langebaan, 140km from Cape Town.
TOURISM OFFICE
· Tel: 022 714 2088ORIGINS OF THE NAME
The Portueguese name, "Aguanda de Saldanha", meaning 'watering place of Saldanha' was first given to the present Table Bay (1503), in honour of Admiral Antonio de Saldanha who was wounded by Khoikhoi while taking in water. In 1603 one Joris van Spilbergen sailed past and under the impression that he reached Aguanda de Saldanha, applied the name.The bay is still known as Saldanha Bay and the town takes its name from there.
HISTORY
Saldanha Bay was a popular shelter for shipping against the Storms off the Cape coast. Many vessels called on this harbour, amongst other from the Portuguese, French, Dutch, Brittish, Germans and also the American Alabama.Today it is known as a fishing harbour, holiday destination and naval base.
POPULATION
4000PLACES OF INTEREST
◊ Saldanha Steel◊ Sishen-Saldanha Railway line
◊ Naval base
◊ Fishing industry
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
• Water sports• Fishing
• Sailing
• Whale and dolphin watching charters
• Island cruises
• Hiking
• Birding
• 4x4 trails
• See the accommodation page for accommodation in this area
