Top South Africa Sailing Tours

Magic Lagoon Charters offers a truly different way to experience the Knysna Lagoon — aboard beautifully restored classic wooden boats that combine timeless style with a smooth, comfortable ride. Unlike larger or ocean-based tours, our cruises take place entirely on the calm, sheltered waters of the lagoon. That means no swell, no crowds, and no rush — just a relaxed, intimate experience in one of South Africa’s most scenic settings. With small group sizes and a low-to-the-water perspective, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and a far more personal connection to the surroundings — from the Knysna Heads to the turquoise waters of Featherbed Bay. We’re also fully licensed, allowing you to enjoy drinks, bubbly, oysters, and curated platters on board — transforming your cruise into a refined, social experience rather than just a sightseeing trip. This isn’t a standard boat tour. It’s classic lagoon cruising — private in feel, effortless, and beautifully done.

This combo package allows you to tick off two of Cape Town’s must-do experiences with just one booking. Admire coastal sights such as Table Mountain from the water and keep an eye out for native marine life on a one-hour boat cruise, then transfer to a restaurant on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront to savour some of the international flavours that this port city is best known for.

Enjoy being out on the water and the wind through your hair on this 1-hour cruise from the V&A Waterfront. Sail towards Clifton Beach on a spacious and comfortable 53-foot catamaran and enjoy unparalleled views of the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Table Bay, Robben Island and Cape Town Harbour.

Avoid traffic and opt for a more scenic way of exploring Cape Town compared to crowded local bus services—a catamaran cruise. As you sail along the Atlantic coastline, you can snap unobstructed photos of key sights, including Robben Island, the 12 Apostles mountain range and the city’s most prominent landmark—Table Mountain.

Step aboard a magnificent schooner and enjoy a relaxing evening along the Garden Route coastline. This sunset cruise from Mossel Bay combines authentic sailing, coastal landscapes, and remarkable marine wildlife in one memorable experience. Visit Seal Island, home to approximately 4,000–4,500 Cape Fur Seals, while your onboard guide shares fascinating insights into the colony. Continue past Cape St. Blaize, its historic lighthouse, and the remarkable Khoisan Sea Caves, which can only be seen from the water. Along the way, you may also spot dolphins, seabirds, and, during whale season, even whales in their natural habitat. As the day draws to a close, your captain pauses at the best viewpoints, allowing you to soak in the colourful sunset and capture beautiful photographs as the sky fills with shades of gold, orange, pink, and crimson.

Set sail on the Spirit of Victoria, a beautifully crafted 58ft Gaff Rigged Schooner, for an hour of relaxation and stunning views of Cape Town. The only sailing trip, departing from the historic V&A Waterfront, offers a unique chance to glide across Table Bay while soaking in breathtaking vistas of Table Mountain and the vibrant cityscape. With room for 45 passengers and a fully stocked bar, guests can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while capturing unforgettable memories. Whether it's a special occasion or just a day out, this cruise promises an authentic sailing experience you won't want to miss.

Our sailing adventures emphasise the thrilling, unique experience of being on the open ocean under sail. We provide a true sailing experience, where you have the opportunity to learn from a professional crew. Our crew will teach you to steer, navigate and trim. Watch the sunset from the deck, dive off the bow, have a delicious glass of wine, and enjoy the incredible scenery and wildlife that Cape Town has to offer from the city's most beautiful yacht! There is always a high chance of spotting whales, dolphins, seals, sunfish and penguins too.

Our well-informed guides share their stories and knowledge of the V&A working harbour. Enjoy the clam waters while the skipper navigates its way around the historically rich and ever busy port. Dawn is a 40 seater harbour cruise boat offering half hour cruises as well as one-hour cruises around the Old Harbour and International Docks. Dawn is ideal for private functions and may be chartered privately for children’s parties, bachelor parties or tour groups

Tick off two Cape Town must-dos with this combo Cruise and Dine package. Watch the sunset over the port town with a glass of complimentary bubbly in hand on a sunset cruise, then transfer to a V&A Waterfront restaurant for a three-course dinner, choosing from Italian, Greek, or local cuisine to suit you.

This 39ft sailing Catamaran offers a comfortable sailing experience along the Atlantic seaboard showcasing the iconic views of Table Mountain and the Mother City Cape Town. You have the choice of sitting on the foredeck and trampolines which is ideal for those summer days or alternatively, chat with the Captain in the aft undercover and still enjoy the fantastic views of the city. Escape Cat can accommodate 36 passengers and is perfect for special events or functions.

This is a unique outdoor package deal in Johannesburg. 09:00am: You will be picked up from a collection point within a 50km radius of Sandton. 10:00am: You will enjoy a 1.5-hour cableway experience. 11:30am: After the cableway trip you will be transported to the Harties Boat Company dock for your boat cruise. 13:00pm: You will enjoy a 2-hour lunch boat cruise. We are offering light snack whilst on board and a cash bar. (for your own account) 15:00pm: You will return to the dock where our driver will be waiting for you to transport you back to the original collection point. 16:00pm: You will be dropped off at your original collection point.

Catch the sunset over Cape Town from the deck of a sailboat on this evening cruise. Sit back and relax with a provided glass of sparkling wine while watching the sun sink over the city landscape. You’ll get frame-worthy photos of the city and Table Mountain in sunset hues; captain and crew are on hand to answer any questions and provide commentary.

Savor the stunning views of Cape Town's coastline as you relax aboard a sunset cruise from the V&A Waterfront. Choose the Champagne Sunset Cruise and enjoy complimentary drinks while watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the skies with vibrant colors. This is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the beauty of Table Mountain and the city lights as they come alive at dusk. - Daily scheduled sunset cruises departing from V&A Waterfront - Enjoy complimentary drinks while cruising for approximately 90 minutes - Ideal for couples, families, and anyone looking to capture the beauty of Cape Town at sunset

This cruise and dine combination is the perfect way to make the most of limited time in Cape Town. Instead of exploring the city on foot, save time and see its key sights from the water—including the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and the city’s skyline. At the end of the cruise, a sushi meal is included at a restaurant at the V&A waterfront.

Combine lagoon and open sea sailing on this boat excursion in Knysa. You and a group of just 12 people or fewer will enjoy an intimate atmosphere onboard the sailboat, listening to commentary on the local ecosystem and keeping watch for dolphins and whales. Enjoy personalized attention from the captain and crew, as well as drinks for purchase while you relax on board.

Iconic Table Mountain Views – Take in breathtaking, panoramic views of Cape Town’s most famous landmark from the water’s edge. Lion’s Head & Signal Hill – Admire the dramatic slopes and golden hues as these peaks rise majestically above the city. Historic Robben Island – Cruise past the island that symbolizes South Africa’s journey to freedom, visible across the sparkling Atlantic. Sea Point & Mouille Point Promenade – Glide by the vibrant coastline lined with chic cafés, runners, and the iconic Green Point Lighthouse. The Twelve Apostles Mountain Range – Marvel at this spectacular series of peaks stretching along the Atlantic Seaboard, a truly postcard-perfect view.

This is the ultimate way to start the day in Cape Town. Enjoy a peaceful ocean cruise that showcases the Mother City’s skyline illuminated by the morning sun. Toast the day with a glass of prosecco and enjoy the panoramic views. No need to worry about researching a place to eat after the boat ride—the trip includes a delicious breakfast at the V&A Waterfront.

Sail over the Knysa lagoon and past the Knysa Heads on this open-ocean lunchtime adventure. During this half-day tour, see the coastal scenery of the Garden Route from your vantage point on the water, then return to the calm of the Knysa Estuary to anchor for a Mediterranean-style lunch. Learn about the marine ecosystem and the animals who thrive their through your skipper's commentary as you sail.