Information on Saldanha, Western Cape, South Africa

Saldanha is a town north of Cape Town on the northern coast of Saldanha Bay, in the Western Cape province. Its situation as a natural sheltered harbour has led to development as a port for the export of iron ore from Sishen in the Northern Cape, which is transported on the Saldanha– Sishen railway line.

Saldanha Bay is the largest natural bay in South Africa. It offers a paradise for water sport enthusiasts. Things to see in Saldanha include Cummings Grave, the French Huguenot Memorial, Doc's Cave and the Breakwater. There are several holiday resorts, small fishing villages, and seaside towns. This area is known for its abundant sea life and scenic beauty.

The name Saldanha originally applied to the present Table Bay, where Antonio de Saldanha, a Portuguese admiral anchored his fleet in 1503. Ironically he never saw the bay that was named after him, since by some navigational error, the name Saldanha was applied to its current position by Joris von Spilbergen. During the Second World War Saldanha was very significant because of its safe anchorage and strategic location as a convoy assembly point. Today Saldanha has a large iron ore quay and is home to a large assortment of fishing vessels.