This paper gives an overview of the present investigation on the wave climate around the South African coast and possible trends therein, due to climate change effects on the oceans. Preliminary findings indicate that there may be long-term trends in the regional metocean climate, while sea level rise alone will greatly increase the risks and impacts associated with extreme sea-storm events. The paper aims to contribute towards determining some of these risks to the port and maritime operations associated with climate change effects in the Southern African marine and coastal region. Keywords: Climate change, Wave change, Southern African coast, Maritime, Global warming, 28th Annual Southern African Transport Conference, Wave climate, Ocean.