The Underwater World of the Cape Peninsula

Marine expert Georgina Jones captures the beauty of a broadnose seven-gill shark up close. Photo by Geoff Spiby.

On Wednesday, 18 September 2025, at 18:30, marine naturalist Georgina Jones will give a talk at the Gordon’s Bay Yacht Club (Old Harbour).

From the enormous humpback whales to the delicate purple lady nudibranchs, the waters of the Cape Peninsula are brimming with life. Iconic kelp forests provide shelter for fish, conceal predatory octopuses, and serve as homes for crabs and limpets. The sandy seabed is home to wandering starfish, burrowing anemones, and camouflaged klipfish, while rocky reefs sustain sea fans, moss animals, and snails. Visitors from the open ocean — including schools of dolphins, swift yellowtail, and ghostly jellies — contribute to this vibrant showcase of biodiversity.

Jones has dedicated years to studying and documenting the marine life of the Cape Peninsula and False Bay. She authored an extensive field guide on the sea slug species of southern Africa and is now preparing the second edition of her esteemed guide on the region's marine animals. Residing in Cape Town, she remains captivated by the diverse species and behaviors that emerge beneath the ocean's surface.

This event is included in the SmallTalX® series, which invites experts from various disciplines to Franschhoek for captivating discussions on science, nature, and culture. Every event aims to inspire curiosity and conversation, encouraging audiences to pose questions and engage directly with the specialists.

Tickets cost R125. It is important to book in advance due to limited seating. The bar and restaurant at the venue will be open. To make a reservation, email smalltalx.info@gmail.com.

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