Situated inside a landed boat on the Durban beachfront, I think the best part of The Cargo Hold is the shark tank, the window into which, is about 2 stories high (reflecting the height of the main dining area), so quite a spectacular view of the sharks and fish.
So yes, you get to eat inside the hold of a boat (hence the name) with a giant shark aquarium right next to you, quite, quite novel.

Novelty aside, I’m not so sure about the food served at this restaurant. Admittedly I chose the steak, while Cargo Hold is reknown for its seafood. The steak was rather small and full of gristle, and the sides were rather average. Service was efficient, but not very friendly. The wine on offer if I recall correctly was decent though.

The theme of this restaurant is distinctly nautical, with wood floors and walls, portholes etc., I should stress though that this is an upmarket eatery, not just a themed fish restaurant.

Cargo Hold charges about double of most other equivelant restaurants in Durban, I think you’re really paying for the location and the novelty of the experience, and I’m uncertain whether I would be interested in trying this restaurant again, but If I did, I’d be sure to try stick to the seafood.

Pros
- good reputation
- good wines
- good location
- quite a novel concept

Cons
- relatively expensive
- food wasn’t up to standard for the price (stick to seafood?)
- service could be better

For a night out with a difference! Dine alongside a shark tank, watching 5 sharks swimming around… a truly unique experience. Service is excellent and food is very good too. Good wine list and choice of food on menu.
High recommended for a special night out.
A real Durban experience!