The breathtaking beauty, rich biodiversity, and vital conservation value of the Western Cape’s coastline are set to captivate television audiences across South Africa. CapeNature is to feature prominently in a brand-new, primetime Afrikaans series titled Hey Skipper, which premieres on DStv Channel 144 kykNET on Saturday, 4 July 2026 at 18:00.
Produced and presented by the adventurer, filmmaker, and outdoor enthusiast Dewald Visser, the 13-episode series takes viewers on an immersive journey across some of the world’s most spectacular marine environments, closely exploring the delicate relationship between human activity, water, and environmental preservation.
The Western Cape’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) will take centre stage as Visser explores the unique coastal landscapes, marine biodiversity, and pioneering conservation initiatives that give the province’s coastline its global ecological significance.
CapeNature manages six key MPAs—namely Robberg, Goukamma, Stilbaai, De Hoop, Betty’s Bay, and Rocherpan—all of which will be spotlighted. Additionally, viewers will be treated to footage from other celebrated nature reserves, including Lambert’s Bay Bird Island, Walker Bay, De Mond, Dyer Island, Keerbooms, and Geelkrans.
Throughout the series, episodes will highlight the critical, hands-on work being undertaken to conserve fragile marine ecosystems. This includes ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable species, maintain healthy marine environments, and promote responsible human interaction within these sensitive zones.
Dr Ashley Naidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of CapeNature, emphasized the profound impact of visual media on environmental awareness.
“Storytelling has the ability to connect people with nature and through Hey Skipper, viewers will get to experience the coastlines of the Western Cape while learning more about the conservation work that takes place to conserve these ecosystems.”
Dr Naidoo said Marine Protected Areas play a vital role in maintaining healthy oceans, supporting biodiversity, and creating opportunities for sustainable, nature-based tourism, adding that the organisation is immensely proud to share the work of its dedicated teams and partners through this exciting broadcast.
The series ultimate aim is to inspire global and local audiences by showcasing the adventure, beauty, and powerful conservation stories found along international coastlines.
Speaking on the vision behind the project, presenter Dewald Visser said, “Every destination has a story to tell, and our oceans are filled with incredible people, places and conservation efforts. CapeNature’s MPAs are examples of how protecting these environments can create opportunities for exploration, education and appreciation.”
Viewers can look forward to a diverse array of marine adventures, from exploring local coastlines and waterways to showcasing international marine conservation projects, with each episode driving home the message that understanding and protecting ocean environments is essential to sustaining both nature and surrounding communities.
Weekend Argus Reporter
iol.co.za
