The coast of False Bay has a unique ecosystem that is home to a captivating community of sea animals that changes with the seasons.
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A popular belief is that False Bay is where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, which is not quite accurate. The bay falls within the Atlantic Ocean and serves as a convergence point for two significant ocean currents. The cold, nutrient-rich Benguela Current slowly flows along the West Coast, while the warm Agulhas Current moves along the East. This convergence creates exceptional conditions that support a diverse variety of marine life.
Visitors to False Bay can expect to encounter a host of remarkable creatures throughout the year. Cape fur seals, Bryde’s whales, sharks, various species of dolphins (including common, bottlenose, dusky and humpback species), penguins and various sea birds grace the bay with their presence.
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Winter in False Bay brings gentle northerly winds, resulting in cool and clear waters that transform the bay into a tranquil lake. Winter is also the best time to spot southern right and humpback whales as they migrate to warmer waters from the harsh Antarctic winters.
As summer arrives, the whales make their way south, paving the way for a whole new variety of migratory animals. Massive super pods of common dolphins charge into the bay, following large shoals of fish that move into the shallows.
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Simon’s Town Boat Company offers whale and dolphin watching along the coast of False Bay.
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Picture: Simon’s Town Boat Company / Facebook
