Charts: SAN 122, 121, or SAN 57, or BA 2083
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Distance: 120 miles.

There are several anchorages en route which will be noted later in this section.

Between Mossel Bay and Cape Agulhas there are numerous rocky headlands with underwater reefs extending up to two miles offshore. The narrow strip of coastal plain is backed by majestic mountain ranges, flattening out as one approaches Cape Agulhas, with occasional small coastal ranges and sand dunes.

It is very unwise if conditions are not favourable to try to sail round Cape Agulhas. It is far better to sit it out at anchor and go round safely and comfortably with a southeast wind when it arrives.

There is often an inshore current towards the land at Cape Infanta and Cape Agulhas, and that all the anchorages are open to a southerly gale, therefore becoming unsafe immediately and should be vacated at once. The southeaster is a favourable wind all the way to Cape Point.

Note: Approx. 35 miles to the south of Mossel Bay is an oil platform. with much vessel movement between it and both Mossel Bay and the bay further west (Vleesbaai).

A further oilfield exists (Oribi oilfield), approx. 45 miles south of Stilbaai. Possible anchorages shown on most large scale charts: Vleesbaai Stilbaai (small fishing 'harbour') St Sabastian Bay Struisbaai (small fishing 'harbour')

THE AGULHAS CURRENT (for this section)
The current is generally weakened to a half to one knot, spreading out over the Agulhas Bank. An inshore easterly counter current follows the trend of the coast. There are reports of indraughts into bays and towards land.

For full list of dangers, lights, harbour approaches, photos, etc., see "Southern African Cruising Notes" by Tony Herrick http://www.cruiser.co.za/tony.asp