Cape Town - A first-of-its-kind amphibious bus/boat in Africa was launched in Cape Town this week with the The Waterfront Duck Company offering a unique on-land and in-water tour experience.
Various guests and tourism officials were invited to the official opening, at the Radisson Red Hotel.
The Duck is a 40-seater amphibious vehicle, built by Seahorse Amphibious, in Windsor, UK, and imported to South Africa by The Waterfront Duck Company.
Originally, the Duck was built by GM for use in World War II – and its name was “DUKW”. Troops quickly started calling them “ducks” and the name stuck.
Keith Lindsay, founder and MD of The Waterfront Duck Co, told the Weekend Argus that he got the idea on a visit to his brother in Boston and experienced one of the 36 ducks there.
“Boston is well known for the Boston ducks … I thought it was a wonderful idea to bring to SA, but that was in 2008 when I was not in the position to do it.
“… it wasn't until 2012 when I sold my business that I revisited the idea… In 2018, I did some research and landed up with a company in the UK called Seahorse Amphibious.
“They build ducks as well as run some of their own operations, so I decided that was the best vehicle. But then there were a huge amount of regulatory processes. Unfortunately, Covid-19 hit and there were various component issues for manufacturers in the UK around regulatory issues.
“So, numerous delays, but locally the Waterfront folk were fantastic supporters of the initiative when I presented it to them – they backed me from the beginning.
“They've been fully behind the idea because the bus travels around, it fits into one of their objectives of connecting and integrating the Waterfront with the City, which the bus absolutely does, being on land but covering a little bit of the City and the Waterfront.”
The tour departs from the Waterfront, passing the new Cape Town Stadium and winds along the Atlantic Seaboard to take in some famous landmarks and scenic views.
The bus arrives back at the V&A Waterfront, where it leaves land and splashes into the water near the Cape Grace Hotel for a cruise around the V&A marina and harbour.
Not only will guests be told about the history and modern workings of the harbour, you will also see and learn about the marine-life and ecology of the area.
City Mayco member for economic growth James Vos was also in attendance and gave the City's vote of support for The Waterfront Duck and its place in the eco-system of tourism in the Cape.
“The Waterfront Duck not only enhances Cape Town's appeal for both locals and visitors, but also aligns perfectly with our goals to drive tourism and economic growth. It's wonderful to see our tourism sector continually push boundaries and create memorable experiences.
“With each splash of the Waterfront Duck, we're not just adding fun to our city – we're also boosting our local economy and showcasing Cape Town's vibrant spirit.
“This launch underscores our commitment to positioning Cape Town as a leading global destination and we're excited to see the positive impact it will have.”
Tickets range from R95 to R395.