FANCY a bird’s eye-view of all the holiday action and experience Jeffreys Bay from a unique perspective as you gaze on unparalleled scenery from above?
A helicopter flip with Theron Aviation along the coastline is a perfect gift this festive season, but be warned – it is addictive.
Arriving at Theron Aviation at the back of Buco in Blaaukrans Street, Jeffreys Bay, we are greeted by experienced pilot Meyburgh Theron and his team – all the way from Bloemfontein.
This is the fourth year that they do helicopter flips in Jeffreys Bay, but only over the festive season. During the year, Theron catches and culls wild animals professionally.
Inside the sturdy R44 Raven II, we buckle up, put on our radio headphones – to converse with the pilot – and settle for take-off.
Although a bit nervous at first with the open helicopter, Theron assures me that no one has ever fallen out. In fact, it is impossible.
Kabeljous
“Kabeljous or Paradise Beach,” asks Theron after take-off on the 8-minute flip.
Definitely Kabeljous.
Maybe we see a shark or two lurking in the water – from high above, off course.
Theron laughs, “Chances to see sharks are slim with the current red tide. Sharks usually stay away.
“But we did see about 30 large sharks close to Oyster Bay just the other day.”
And he was right – no luck.
He turns the helicopter towards Kabeljous – giving us an eagle view of Jeffreys Bay and the spectacular salt water canals of Marina Martinique in the distance.
“Look! There is a paraglider . . .,” says The-ron. “And just look at all the beach-goers.
“And there is the cove and Kabeljous Ri-ver.”
Then it is time to turn around.
As Theron gently manoeuvres the helicopter to the left – I quickly assess the situation: what can I grab? The window? The seat? Or even his leg?
But then I realise, I will not fall out.
Spectacular views
Jeffreys Bay from above was an unforgettable sight.
The trip allowed us to see what we would otherwise never have noticed before: a myriad of small dams, the rapid expansion of the town, the wind farm, farms and wildlife.
But nothing could beat the clear view of the beach and cove.
The sunny weather – even with some clouds – was a bonus.
Sadly, the joyride came to an end all too quickly and we touched down at the starting point – a perfect landing.
We are quietly lost in deep reflection of what we have just witnessed.
Young and old can enjoy this activity.
More information
Taking a helicopter trip over Jeffreys Bay gives you a unique perspective of the town.
What sights are in store for you?
This depends on the route you choose to book and how much your wallet can withstand.
The two different options you can choose from are:
- An 8-minute trip to Kabeljous or Paradise Beach at a cost of R350 per person.
- An 20 minute trip to St Francis Bay at a cost of R700 per person
For more information, contact Meyburgh Theron at 083 271 8898 or Yolanda Theron at 082 376 0661.
