Tourism gets a boost from Africa’s largest 3D-printed structure

Travellers along the Garden Route now have a new reason to stop in Plettenberg Bay after Formosa Bay Resort unveiled what is being described as Africa’s largest 3D-printed structure, as tourism operators increasingly invest in experience-led attractions to capture visitor spending.

Standing about five metres high at the entrance to the resort, the Waffling Whale Tail was developed by Big Ideas 3D Printing for the Beekman Group.

Positioned alongside the Waffling Whale Café, the installation is intended to become a landmark that encourages motorists travelling one of South Africa’s busiest tourism routes to stop, spend time at the resort and share the attraction on social media.

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Beekman Group says the installation forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen the destination’s appeal through visitor experiences.

“Plettenberg Bay is one of South Africa’s best-known whale-watching destinations with a long-standing connection to marine life and ocean conservation. We want to create something memorable that captures the spirit of this iconic coastline while giving travellers a reason to stop,” the group says.

The sculpture takes inspiration from Plettenberg Bay’s reputation as a whale-watching destination, while its textured surface resembles the café’s signature waffles.

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The group says tourism is increasingly being shaped by experiences rather than accommodation alone, with destinations competing to attract visitors for longer stays and greater local spending.

“The Garden Route is one of the country’s most iconic tourism corridors, and this installation creates an experience-led destination.”

The installation also reinforces Formosa Bay Resort’s position within Plettenberg Bay’s tourism offering, which includes beaches, whale watching, hiking trails, wine farms and marine activities.

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