Fall in love with SA’s underwater world

The oceanic animals that frequent South African waters are phenomenal. From the seasonal visitors like the southern right whales to surprise guest, Buffel, here are some photos of South Africa’s underwater world and those that inhabit it.

Buffel the elephant seal has made the Western Cape’s beaches his moulting ground for a few years now. Last year, Buffel chose Fish Hoek for his month-long hangout. This year, he opted for a more secluded stretch of sand and suitably chose Buffels Bay in Cape Point.

‘Keeping cool in the harsh summer sun…’. Image: Jean Tresfon

‘Buffel keeps covering himself with sand, presumably to keep cool in the hot summer sun. Image: Jean Tresfon

‘Buried in the sand…’ Image: Jean Tresfon

Don’t come any closer…’ Image: Jean Tresfon

That unmistakeable red eye is a dead giveaway that this is Buffel,’ said Tresfon. Image: Jean Tresfon

The Simon’s Town Boat Company is releasing a series of images from past oceanic animal encounters over the years. Simon’s Town is a firm-favourite False Bay spot for seeing breaching whales, schools of dolphins and even hunting killer whales.

Cape Town is famous for its kelp forests, underwater beauty and unique inhabitants. The Cape fur seal is a charismatic creature that makes for a fun diving buddy.

 

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A post shared by CAPE TOWN FREEDIVING (@capetownfreediving) on Jan 11, 2020 at 11:23pm PST

 

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A post shared by CAPE TOWN FREEDIVING (@capetownfreediving) on Mar 19, 2020 at 4:02am PDT

 

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A post shared by CAPE TOWN FREEDIVING (@capetownfreediving) on Jan 31, 2020 at 11:47pm PST

 

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A post shared by CAPE TOWN FREEDIVING (@capetownfreediving) on Jan 31, 2020 at 11:47pm PST

 

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A post shared by CAPE TOWN FREEDIVING (@capetownfreediving) on Mar 12, 2020 at 2:58am PDT

Sodwana Bay is legendary for its turtle sightings, warm waters and an abundance of marine life.

 

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A post shared by Suzanne (@suzpax) on Mar 3, 2020 at 10:39pm PST

 

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A post shared by Ruben Crespo (@rubencrespo_filmmaker) on Apr 9, 2020 at 2:01am PDT

 

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A post shared by Alexander Daniel (@sin.cer.ely) on Apr 8, 2020 at 2:07pm PDT

 

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A post shared by Joshua Mitchell (@itsjoshgmitch) on Mar 7, 2020 at 5:48am PST

 

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A post shared by UCT Underwater Club (@uctunderwater) on Mar 26, 2020 at 9:52am PDT

 

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A post shared by Dive Durban (@divedurban) on Apr 4, 2020 at 3:03am PDT

While we can’t go exploring the oceans just yet, here are some scenes from our recent trip gallivanting around False Bay. Take a look below.

Image: Instagram/ @capetownfreediving

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