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The Flying Dutchman
The ghost of this schooner has been seen many times in the waters around Cape Point, moving under full sail even in no wind. The Flying Dutchman sank as it was trying to round the Cape in 1641 and Captain Hendrik van der Decken, vowed that he would sail on forever. This it seems he has done, and his phantom ship has been recorded several times, by some very important people. King George V of England saw it in 1881, as did thirteen other crewmen in the squadron. Keepers of Cape Point lighthouse often reported seeing her during storms and in 1911 an American whaler reported almost colliding with The Flying Dutchman. Such tales have inspired novelists and composers over centuries, including Wagner's Der Fliegende Hollander opera. The lack of regular passenger liners and trading ships bearing many hands, means that The Flying Dutchman doesn't encounter so many boats anymore, but that doesn't mean she isn't out there!
Table Mountain's Table Cloth
It is perfectly likely while you are in Cape Town, that you will encounter the fruits of the smoking competition between Van Hunks and the Devil. Namely the Table Cloth of cloud, which cascades over the edge of the Table Mountain plateau during a southeaster. Van Hunks was an early 18th century pirate who retired from his capricious life to a more sedate existence in the Cape. He spent his days at the top of Table Mountain sitting on Devil's Peak, where he would light up his pipe and stare out to sea. After bragging about his smoking capabilities to a stranger, the two decided to have a competition. They smoked and smoked for days, but finally Van Hunks defeated the stranger, who was revealed to be the Devil who vanished in a puff of smoke. Van Hunks of course, can still smoke up a storm, as you can see for yourself on many a windy summer day.
For a comprehensive guide on Cape Town's myths & legends we recommend you obtain a copy of the latest Passport To The Best Of Cape Town - South Africa travel guide.
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