Cape Town’s topography has always been home to an array of wonderful natural beauties; the majestic Table Mountain, the towering Lion’s Head, and various gardens and nature reserves peppered along the coasts and inland. But what about her mysterious seas? Is there adventure beyond the shores and beaches for any intrepid travellers?
For anyone looking for an extra layer of indulgence, luxury boating offers a way to experience the city from a fresh and salty perspective, one where the mingling waters of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans become your playground.
Different Luxury Boat Options to Set Your Sights On
Serene Sunset Charters
Sunset charters are Cape Town’s quintessential yachting experience. Departing from the V&A Waterfront, these trips offer an outstanding way to witness the city’s famed golden hour in all her glorious decadence. As you glide past the sparkling beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, the coastline subtly shifts into a masterpiece of light and shadow.
Add a glass of bubbly to the mix, and you have a recipe for pure romance.
“For most, the perfect moment on a sunset cruise is when the sun dips into the Atlantic Ocean. Accompanied by friends and loved ones, this is a special moment. For myself on the other hand, the most amazing moments are on the trip back into the harbour, with the city lights beginning to twinkle, shadows creeping up to cover Table Mountain and the golden sky behind you, making for the most precious memories,” says Mandi Jarman, Marketing Manager, Wild Horizons Waterfront Adventures.
Colossal Catamaran Cruising
Catamarans represent the gold standard of maritime luxury, offering a bold blend of stability, space, and sophistication. Unlike traditional single-hull vessels, these twin-hulled marvels provide a uniquely comfortable ocean experience that converts maritime travel from mere transportation into a true indulgence.
“I’ve seen the years roll by while working various cruises on the ocean, but every journey on the Mirage has been fun in its own way. We’ve seen scores of guests come with their own ideas on how the day should go but end up walking away with something completely different and always more fulfilling,” says Tara Sharbonda, Owner of Mirage Catamaran.
Overnight Stays, Glamping Meets Yachting
For the truly adventurous, overnight yacht stays can be your ultimate wont-stop-talking-about-it-back-home getaway. Anchored in secluded coves or gently swaying off the coast, these floating suites come complete with plush bedding, gourmet kitchens, and jaw-dropping views.
Waking up to the sight of Table Mountain as seals play nearby is the kind of moment that lingers on your brain’s lobes long after the trip ends.
We recommend: Luxury Charter Yachts.
Fishing Boat Trips To Reap the Ocean’s Bounty
Cape Town’s fishing experiences are like nowhere else on earth.
Professional charters provide access to some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most diverse fishing grounds, where the cold Atlantic guards rich marine ecosystems as its charge.
Half-day and full-day deep-sea expeditions target prized species like yellowtail, tuna, kingklip, and snoek. Professional-grade equipment and an on-hand crew of professionals will guarantee that even first-time participants can enjoy world-class fishing.
We recommend: Fish Tales Charters (Cape Town)
Practical Tips for First-Timers
Luxury boating might sound exclusive and too expensive, but there are options for various budgets and occasions.
Here is what you need to know:
Best time to go
Sunset cruises are popular, but morning charters offer calmer seas and a more private experience.
Best season in Cape Town
Thanks to the spring-like weather conditions, October and November may be ideal for a cruise, but any time in Summer (November to March) will also have the best odds.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a hat, and a good camera to capture the magic.
Average costs
Group charters start at around R3 000 – R5 000 per hour (small group), while private options vary depending on the experience.
