Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town launches expert-led marina biology adventure experiences, including whale watching and shark diving 

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town launches a series of exhilarating marine-centric adventures that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Cape from a new vantage point – along its mercurial shoreline.  Guests are invited to explore the intriguing ocean world that fringes the city, on the carefully curated series exclusively led by marine biologist Justin Blake of the Rockhopper Fund.  

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For curious travellers wanting to scratch below the surface of the city, it’s beyond the borders of the hotel where true discovery can be found. Dive into rhythmic kelp forests, snorkel with spectacular wild inhabitants, spot southern right whales from the air and sample the region’s creative terroir through delectable food and wine.  

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In an exclusive partnership with Mount Nelson, all journeys are led by local marine biologist and shark scientist Justin Blake of the Rockhopper Fund, whose lifelong mission is to promote healthy oceans, starting with Smart Marine Reserves. In an effort to protect and promote travel with a social conscience, the proceeds from each marine-biology experience will go straight to the Rockhopper Fund’s vital work in protecting sea life. 

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Guests of Mount Nelson can choose from three expert-led experiences, with optional add-ons including a hosted dinner or a visit to the world-famous Two Oceans aquarium, with Justin Blake: 

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The Whales, Wine and Helicopters adventure offers an unforgettable trio of activities, hooked to peak whale season, which takes place between June and November, every year. It is during this time that the southern right whales skirt the shore, as they migrate to calf and mate in warmer waters. An expert-led helicopter flight will see guests swoop between two oceans, along the coast of Walker Bay toward the whale-watching hotspot of Hermanus, now a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. 

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Landing in the aptly named Hemel-en-Aarde (heaven and earth) Valley at the award-winning Creation Wine Estate, founder and pairing enthusiast Carolyn Martin and her team will lead a bespoke wine tasting, followed by a private 6-course ‘Taste the Terroir’ lunch, before catching a flight back to Mount Nelson Hotel. 

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