Navy ships still coming to Knysna

Two navy ships to have come through the Knysna Heads on Monday, July 10, have been delayed, but are still coming.

When that will be cannot yet be confirmed, said Lieutenant Commander Steve Eriksen of the Knysna Sea Cadets at the time of going to press. The ships were to have come through the Heads into Knysna on Monday at 15:00, but failed to pitch.

SANParks vessels, sailors from the Knysna Yacht Club and members of the public waited most confused when there was no sign of the ships and a lot of disgruntled Knysna people went home, not happy since this is one of the highlights of the Oyster Festival for many people.

Earlier Eriksen had said that responding to a heartfelt appeal from mayor Eleanore BouwSpies, the SA Navy decided to join this year’s Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster as planned, despite the massive budget cuts they are experiencing.

On a bright note, when the navy does arrive, so does the band, and if the schedule goes as planned, they will be staying longer this year.

Eriksen said the famous band would also perform for the community twice.

“Originally Knysna was to enjoy only the maritime component of the visit, with two riverine patrol vessels to enter the Knysna Heads, however we have now had a very welcome phone call to confirm the band is coming,” said Eriksen.

The world-famous SA Navy Band will play in concert at the Knysna Quays at 10:30 on Sunday, July 16. “They will also lead a parade, made up of the recent recruits, up the Main Street to Memorial Square on Friday, July 14 at 10:40, where the parade will be addressed by the mayor,” confirmed Eriksen.

The navy explained to Eriksen that their sympathy in the wake of the fires prompted them to put aside financial concerns and come to cheer up the town.

Eriksen also disclosed on Monday, July 10 that the navy band will also extend their visit this year to play in a concert for Madiba Day on Tuesday, July 18, at the Khayalethu hall at a time still to be announced.

As soon as an expected time of arrival is received the Knysna-Plett Herald will inform readers.

* A special thanks to Brett Gething of Knysna Rib Adventures for saving a spot on his boat for the Knysna-Plett Herald. What a great experience. Definitely worth it, even though the navy did not arrive.