Nov 25 (Tuesday) – Disembarking the Navigator and Ride to the top of Table Mountain

Today was the end of the cruise so we disembarked the ship early morning.  However, we signed up for Regent’s three-day post-cruise package along with Jim and Phyllis.  Today’s activities started with a drive up to the funicular where we take a ride up to the top of Table Mountain. 

Unfortunately, it was hot (very sunny) and there was a very long line.  We waited in line for almost two hours.  The upside was that part of the area for the lines was covered so we at least had a bit of shade.  

While waiting we noticed a fire on the side of the mountain.  It was near a road so there were a lot of emergency vehicles there and we saw a lot of helicopters delivering water to the fire.

We also saw a few people who were hiking up the side of the mountain.  In that sun, the hike must have been terribly hot.

We eventually made it into the building, with some more waiting. 

Eventually we made it onto the funicular car.  The car rotated slowly with the ride consisting of one complete rotation. 

The wait was worth it though, the views from the top were spectacular.  There were great views of Cape Town and the harbor and the cities all around the area.

And there were lots of views of the ocean beyond.

We walked around the top for a while.  It was very flat but there were good trails through the rough stones. 

There were some flowers,

and plaques and topography models.

Even saw some wildlife…this little lizard. 

We eventually headed back down on the funicular and boarded buses that took us on a short drive around Cape Town. 

We eventually ended up at the hotel where they had light snacks for us.  After checking in we had a late lunch at the restaurant in the hotel and opted for no dinner.