Spread the love

Acclaimed Cape Town hotel, The Table Bay recently partnered with National Geographic, Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and South African Department of Education in supporting the landmark Matrics in Antarctica expedition, headed by Founder, Riaan Manser.

The Matrics mission brought together a group of five young environmental activists under the leadership of pioneering, explorer, Riaan Manser, who had previously circumnavigated both Iceland and Madagascar in a kayak, to take advantage of the great opportunities for understanding the significant ecological and environmental changes currently occurring in Antarctica, which remains the world’s coldest, windiest and driest place.

An important member of the delegation was The Table Bay’s loyal mascot, Oscar the seal who made it all the way to Antarctica and swam, hiked and enjoyed great company before returning home safe and sound. 

The Table Bay, which has a long and proud history of supporting sustainable environmental practices and creating opportunities for positive impact, was the natural choice for the Matrics group’s quarantine where they isolated for a week as per COVID-19 protocols before departing on the five-day fact-finding journey.

“We are extremely conscious of our impact within our beautiful natural surroundings and making a positive contribution to prevent climate change to preserve our surroundings for future generations,” said The Table Bay General Manager, Joanne Selby.

“We are continually looking for ways to reduce water, energy and waste consumption. The Matrics in Antarctica project talked to education and exposing the future leaders of our community to seek innovative solutions for our future. We were proud to be a part of the journey,” Ms Selby said.

With Cape Town experiencing severe water shortages amid drought conditions over the past few years, The Table Bay has directed a number of initiatives at permanently reducing consumption of this precious resource including reducing change of linen, replacing napkins with biodegradable alternatives, redesigning the hotel gardens using indigenous plants, and comprehensive communication and education programs for guests and employees. 

“The Table Bay has thought of everything to ensure our guests create memorable experiences. The staff are friendly and go the extra mile to make your stay as comfortable and happy as possible. But my favourite things about the hotel are its prime positioning, with stunning waterfront and mountain views, and that was aligned with the values of the Matrics in Antarctica program,” Ms Selby said.

For information and bookings for The Table Bay in Australia and New Zealand, contact Svetlana Jovanovic at The Unique Tourism Collection on svetlana@uniquetourism.com or (61 2) 9211 6590.