Most modern purpose-built whale watching vessel launched

The latest in safety-at-sea design and technology has been deployed in the purpose-built whale watching boat operating off the South African coast – the vessel, Miroshca, was launched in Cape Town harbour today.The steady growth in tourism and particularly in the boat based whale watching industry is at the core of this significant investment by a small Hermanus BEE company, one of the owners, Shaun Alcock, said on the occasion of the launch. Southern Right Charters was one of the boat-based operators to be granted an exemption license nine years ago and has increased business from one whale watching trip per day on a 12 seater converted fishing vessel to the present luxury catamaran designed for comfort and safety.

“Our visitors have spoken and we have listened. It is critical for all role players in the tourism industry to provide the best possible quality of service. A large majority of our clients are foreign visitors and we must ensure that the message they take back is one of reliability, safety, comfort and pleasure. The launch of Miroshca today is our confident investment in the tourism industry and the build- up to 2010”, Alcock said.

“The safety and comfort of our passengers comes first and with that as our focus a catamaran design was chosen for superior stability. Every safety feature is encompassed in the fixtures from dual propulsion to dual navigation equipment, dual steering, dual dc charging systems, electronic early warning fire monitors and remote engine room fire extinguishers.”

Miroshca complies fully with the SA Maritime Safety Association requirements & has been furbished to provide seats for all passengers. Enclosed areas for protection from sea spray while traveling, retractable, transparent blinds to give the option of open-air, freshness in good conditions & a surround-sound public address system for optimum communication by the specialist guide on board.

Passengers also have the option of walking around the vessel and enjoying four different viewing levels. Modern toilets and a refreshment bar complete the home comforts on board.

With the whale season slowly drawing to a close and the festive season approaching, Miroshca will be hosting scenic sundowner cruises and functions in Walker Bay giving visitors a different perspective of the coast of Hermanus, Onrus and Vermont and the possibility of seeing dolphins, penguins, seals and marine birds. Whale watchers may also spot the resident Bryde’s whales that are found in these waters throughout the year.

Miroshca will operate from the New Harbour in Hermanus along with her sister vessel Miroshga. A special launch celebration will be held in Hermanus to introduce the vessel to her home town.

PRESS RELEASE Compiled by Glynis van Rooyen