The Phyllisia Shipwreck

About The Phyllisia Shipwreck

The Phyllisia shipwreck refers to the rusting maritime remains of a 452-ton South African steam trawler located within the southwestern coastal region of the Cape Point Nature Reserve. On the night of May 3, 1968, the vessel ran aground on the jagged reefs off Kleinkommetjie after striking submerged rocks, which tore four holes into its hull. While the rough Atlantic seas ultimately battered and broke the trawler apart, all 25 crew members on board were successfully rescued using life rafts and naval helicopters.

Today, the weathered, skeletal remnants of the ship’s hull and engine block sit exposed on a rocky reef right at the shoreline. Visitors can access the site by undertaking a circular 5-kilometre hiking trail that begins at the Gifkommetjie parking lot. The path leads hikers down a coastal escarpment, through natural tunnels of ancient Milkwood trees, and along the rugged coast to a marked detour pointing directly to the wreck. Because the route sits within the boundaries of Table Mountain National Park, standard SANParks conservation fees apply to enter the reserve.