Powervan makes its first trip between Hartenbos and Mossel Bay

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Several guests enjoyed a scenic trip along the tracks between Hartenbos and Mossel Bay while aboard Powervan Mossel Bay, previously known as Diaz Express, on Friday afternoon 8 May.

Powervan Mossel Bay owner, Charl Marais, said Friday's ride was the inaugural run for the trams.

He said he is in the process of obtaining permission from Transnet so Powervan can run the tracks between Hartenbos and Mossel Bay a few times a week. Marais said the track had previously been closed.

Marais said they already run daily between Hartenbos and Great Brak River/Glentana and the line to Mossel Bay would be a great addition.

These wagons of Powervan were originally used for inspection purposes along the track decades ago but have now been converted for tourism.

Marais said of Friday's ride that there were about 25 guests from various local businesses and organisations who travelled from Hartenbos to the stop at Santos Beach. From there, the attendees enjoyed a lunch at Santos Express.

He said the plan, once approval has been granted by Transnet, is to regularly take people out for a two-and-a-half-hour ride: an hour for travel and an hour and a half for travellers to enjoy a breakfast, lunch, sundowners or explore Santos Beach and the surrounding area.

Powervan Mossel Bay's team. Photo: Lorinda Claassens