Durban October 2001

Created by webmaster. Last modified on 2002-08-22 11:28:25
Contributors: Lilly Vedana, Thomas Mueller, Yacht MIZ MAE
Countries: South Africa

Durban is a seriously big town with an impressive waterfront, a wild downtown with a noise level we haven't seen since Panama. Not too safe and not too clean. A better bet is to go to the great shopping malls, where it is both safe, pleasant and a large variety of goods are offered.

Of course Durban offers absolutely everything to the yachtsman chasing supplies, repairs and entertainment. The people are most helpful, friendly and actually have time for you inspite of the city being so large. Europe, here you learn something! But don't expect things to happen as fast as in the USA or Europe, this is still Africa, and an interesting part of it.

With the two Yacht Clubs thinking to merge, there is the Point YC commodore Dick King and his famous secretary Audrey to rule the facilities. Have patience and you will experience great service. Boats longer than 55 ft will have a worry to find a walk on mooring.

Plenty of Chandleries, services and trades people in walking distance. Your best bet is to see Tony from "Cruising Connections" (see Charts & Marine Publications ) to get pointed in the right direction.

From Durban you can rent a car, e.g. with the friendly guys from "Tempest", right opposite the Point Yacht Club, and drive to the lion park, the impressive 3000 mtr high mountains of "Drakensberge", or simply roll off to the lovely bird park, the beach front, the botanical gardens or enjoy a huge meal of "Bunny" (try it, we won't tell the details, but you better be hungry for this Durban speciality).

But whatever you do: Stay off the streets at night, don't walk by yourself after dark and be very careful with your credit card.

And when you think you want to leave, listen to "Fred" Mayer, Durban's own weather Guru from radio "Peri Peri", on USB 8297 at 05.00 UTC and on USB 8.100 at 17.00 UTC. He was by far our best source of weather info in RSA.

October 2001

Lilly Vedana & Tom Mueller, Yacht MIZMAE,