The uMhlathuze water body in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality is a substantial coastal lagoon, historically known as the Mhlathuze Lagoon, which forms the basis for the city and deep-water port of Richards Bay. This is a saltwater estuary system covering approximately 30 square kilometres, creating one of the largest natural harbours on the African continent. The lagoon's geography is defined by its role as a major industrial port, which fundamentally shapes the paddling environment. The area is characterized by significant commercial maritime traffic, including large ships using the deep-water harbour. Paddlers must expect high levels of boat traffic and should plan routes with extreme caution, strictly avoiding the main shipping channels. The presence of oil and gas pipelines further indicates a heavily industrialized zone. Access points and specific launch sites for small craft are not detailed, but the urban development of Richards Bay, including suburbs like Meerensee, Arboretum, and Veldenvlei along the lagoon's shores, suggests potential public access points exist, though these would be adjacent to port infrastructure. The ecological character of the lagoon is historically significant, having been protected as the Richards Bay Game Sanctuary as early as 1935, which suggests the potential for wildlife viewing despite the industrial setting. Paddling here offers a unique experience dominated by the scale of port operations, with views of cargo ships and industrial infrastructure, rather than a wilderness setting. Safety is the paramount concern due to the dense commercial vessel traffic.