Downwinds | Kommetjie Platboom Run

Kommetjie Platboom Run

One of the Cape's wilder downwind routes not paddled much, from Kommetjie Beach to Platboom Beach with a distance of about 28 Km's.


  • Kommetjie, Cape Town Ward 61, City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

    Distance in KM
    27
    Estimated Time to complete
    From 1 Hr 40 mins (16.5 Km/h average) onwards depending on conditions
  • Wind Direction
    NNW
    NW
    SSE
    SE
    Best months
  • Average Rating
    0.0

    No of Followers:
    0
  • Created
    about 4 years ago
    Last updated
    about 4 years ago
    Kindly shared by:
    robin.mousley robin.mousley



  • Start - From Kommetjie Beach and watch out for the kelp at launch paddling out, navigating the surf out timing is of the essence.

    Grab a coffee and snack before starting at Androc's mobile kitchen




    During the run:

    Slangkop lighthouse can be seen 1 km from the start of the paddle on the left.
    Slangkop Lighthouse

    After 5 km's in you will pass Kommetjie's crayfish factory, if you're on the right line wont be able to see it clearly.  After this you will also will be passing one of Cape Town's big underground wave spots.
    Scarborough

    After passing the coastal town of Scarborough you will enter enter Cape Point's nature reserve.The next 20 Km's after this point there is no civilisation! Only other landmark is Oliphantsbosch Point with Albatross Rock where there are many shipwrecks, watch out and stay clear and don't become another! After this point only 10 more km's  to go and the runs become even better! 

    Here is a great and informative YouTube video from Dawid Mocke of the Kommetjie Platboom Run, definitely worth watching not only to see the amazing runs, sunfish but get a running commentary of the local area.



    And here's another video on Youtube from Dalo n Jaylo the same day to give you the same/different perspective instead of commentary some cool music instead, we do think though instead of calling it 'Downwind Joy'  it should really be 'Downwind Fun!' 🤩

     
    Did you sea the seal launch out the water? watch again @ 3min 26 secs


    This is a YouTube vide from  Craig Flanagan doing the reverse route.






    Finish at Platboom beach - start the approach to Platboom at about 23km as the wind will start blowing offshore by working the runs to the left, or else you will have a long paddle sideways into Platboom! The backline is not too far off shore with more kelp beds and reefs so watch out, also remember there is no pressure to catch the first wave in.



    As it's a more of a 'out in the wild downwind' there are more things to consider such as kelp, reefs and often big surf. Oliphantsbosch Point with Albatross Rock where there are many shipwrecks, watch out and stay clear and don't become another!  Make sure your approach to Platboom starts about at least 4 Km's to the finish so you're not paddling sideways to get in or even worse blown out to sea!

    Recommend using RSA Safetrx there are lots of success stories of waterfolk using this app.


    Have fun and please stay safe!
    Some Basic Safety Guidelines

    - It is very difficult to spot someone in the water especially in strong wind conditions, so please make sure you can be seen - use bright colour clothing. Wear a brightly coloured PFD Wear a brightly coloured rash vest ( luminous green or orange is best)

    - Use a buddy system - doing a downwind with someone else is always safer than on your own.

    - Have a VHF Radio, mobile/cell phone in a waterproof bag ( test that you can use this in all conditions)

    - Know who to call for help and be sure that your family know who to call. Be sure that someone knows where you are and when you should return. And that they will call for help if this time is exceeded.

    - Other useful tips - Use a leash from the craft to your body. Have a signal flare (hand held are best) or pencil flares. Carry a reflector / mirror. Have a whistle that works when wet. Have your name and landline number on your craft. Leave a card with your name and phone number (mobile/cell and landline) on your vehicle dashboard.



    0 reviews

  • Back to Downwinds