GARDEN ROUTE NEWS  - The spectacular coastline, rich marine life and conservation work of the Western Cape will be showcased to viewers across South Africa in the new Afrikaans adventure series Hey Skipper, which premieres on kykNET (DStv Channel 144) on Saturday 4 July at 18:00.

Presented by adventurer, filmmaker and outdoor enthusiast Dewald Visser, the 13-episode series takes viewers on a journey through some of the world's most remarkable marine environments, exploring the connection between people, the ocean and conservation.

The Western Cape's Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) feature prominently throughout the series, highlighting the province's diverse coastal landscapes, unique marine biodiversity, and the efforts underway to protect these valuable ecosystems.

CapeNature manages six Marine Protected Areas that appear in the series: Robberg Marine Protected Area, Goukamma Marine Protected Area, Stilbaai Marine Protected Area, De Hoop Marine Protected Area, Betty's Bay Marine Protected Area and Rocherpan Marine Protected Area. 

Other protected areas featured include Bird Island Nature Reserve, Walker Bay Nature Reserve, De Mond Nature Reserve, Dyer Island Nature Reserve, Keurbooms Nature Reserve and Geelkrans Nature Reserve.

The programme gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the work being done to protect marine ecosystems, conserve vulnerable species and encourage responsible use of the province's coastal areas.

CapeNature CEO Ashley Naidoo said the series demonstrates how storytelling can help people connect with nature while showcasing the importance of marine conservation.

"Our Marine Protected Areas play an important role in maintaining healthy oceans, supporting biodiversity and creating opportunities for sustainable nature-based tourism," he said.

Visser said Hey Skipper aims to inspire viewers by sharing stories of adventure and conservation from coastlines around the world.

"Every destination has a story to tell, and our oceans are filled with incredible people, places and conservation efforts," he said.

Each episode combines marine adventure with conservation, encouraging viewers to better understand and appreciate the oceans that support both wildlife and coastal communities.

Hey Skipper airs every Saturday at 18:00 on kykNET (DStv Channel 144) from 4 July.

Robberg Nature Reserve and MPA features in the Hey Skipper series.

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