Mossel Bay Zipline | A scaredy-cat's perspective

I took a hard gulp. A droplet of cold sweat ran down my forehead. Hundreds of butterflies were fluttering around my stomach. All while staring down a cliff edge at a long wire over one of the most shark-infested waters in South Africa. What had I gotten myself into…

As a child, I was the adrenaline junkie. Funny how that changes as you grow more aware of ‘what could go wrong'. At first, there wasn’t a hesitation or doubt in mind. We were on our way to the longest over-ocean zipline in the world, I had to 'jump' at the opportunity!

A turbulent day one had the staff turning us away due to safety precautions. Their non-negotiable stance speaks to their high regard for safety procedures. Although we were turned away, the first butterfly emerged from its cocoon in my belly as I knew we’d be back.

Day two, green lights mean go! First, in line, blink, safety forms signed, blink, I’m harnessed in, blink, briefing completed, blink, I’m in the shuttle. If it wasn’t real before, it most certainly was now!

As the shuttle ascended the streets of Mossel Bay so did my heart rate, and my stomach – right into my throat! Why was I so afraid? This is totally my scene. I watched tiny humans do this. I can do it too… right?

For the first time ever a spectacular sea view did not have me in heart eyes, rather I became extremely chatty and loud - filled with nerves. It was time to jump. The first person went with absolute grace. My turn? Nope. Person two rock-stared their descent. My turn? I guess…

I climbed onto the platform, suddenly it was extremely hot. Luckily, the most patient and understanding employee was right by my side trying his very best to calm me down. It didn’t work. All that was between me and this very steep fall was his hand in the way of my swivel. He would not let go until I was ready. However, panic still set in. I asked if I could stand up. He said no. I stood. He unhooked me. Person three went with no problems.

I’d come so far, there are no refunds. I had to do this. I climbed back up onto the platform just in time for a helicopter to stop by with a large lens camera ready for a show. Yay. Not a chance was I going to be sloshed around by their wind! They moved on and I felt ready.

Three, two, one, go!

Using all the might in my strong arm I pressed the line down to reduce my speed. This cliffside isn’t one that instantly falls away, it gradually curves down meaning you begin over a bit of land. This reassured me as a released some grip, just in time for the steepest part of the zipline! Up next: magic.

Gliding through the sky at about 80km/h, over the perfect tones of blue in the sea as it crashed into rocks and the mountainside had me in awe. There are beautifully etched caves to the left, and to the right: uninterrupted ocean views. I was hugged by an extraordinary panorama.

1100 meters later, I found myself doing a facepalm. Why on Earth was I so afraid and could I go a few more times, please?? What a fantastic experience! There was absolutely nothing to be afraid of. The staff knew this, they’ve done it several times before. Yet the level of patience, understanding and the way I was calmed down left me with an immense amount of respect for their team. For this, I’ll shout it far and wide, everyone has got to give the Mossel Bay Zipline a go! Before you do...

Things to know:

• Price: R450-R550 depending on the season.

• Open Mon-Sun: 08H00 – 17H00.

• Age limit: 8 and up.

• Weight limit: 120kg.

• Height limit: 1.9m.

• Average Speed: 80km/h.

• Max Speed: 90km/h.

• Approximately 1100m in length.

• This is weather dependent – too much wind is a no go.

• Come prepared for the possibility of getting splashed.

• Wear closed shoes and comfy clothes that can be secured.

• Your hands need to be kept free, but a strap on video gear is welcome. They do rent out GoPros on site.

• *Since the Mossel Bay Zipline is the longest over-ocean zipline in the WORLD, it can get busy. Book online because the queue can get long.

• ENJOY!