Cape Point – The Flying Dutchman

Western Cape · South Africa · Natural site

Off the storm-lashed Cape of Good Hope, Captain van der Decken's cursed ship is said to sail for all eternity – and misfortune awaits anyone who sees her.

Legend has it that in the 17th century the Dutch captain Hendrick van der Decken swore to round the Cape of Good Hope even if it took until Judgement Day – and was thus condemned to sail forever. For centuries, sailors have told of a phantom ship with full sails in dead calm and an eerie glow, trying to hand over letters addressed to people long dead. The most famous sighting was made in 1881 from HMS Bacchante, where the future King George V noted in his diary that the Flying Dutchman had crossed their bows. To this day, spotting the ship off Cape Point is held to be an omen of shipwreck and death.

FAQ

Where is Cape Point – The Flying Dutchman located?

Cape Point – The Flying Dutchman is in Västra Kapprovinsen, South Africa.

More haunted places in Västra Kapprovinsen

• The Hitchhiker's Road, Uniondale Western Cape · Road
• Verlatenbosch, Table Mountain Western Cape · Natural site
• Daisy de Melker's House, Turffontein Gauteng · House

Accounts are drawn from local folklore and visitor reports.