Sailing in Cape Town’s waters delivers stunning views of Table Mountain and the bustling waterfront at reasonable prices. Most cruises last 1-2 hours, with basic trips starting at €17.78 and luxury sunset voyages reaching $32.44. We especially love the sunset champagne cruises for their unbeatable photo opportunities and the morning wildlife tours when seals and dolphins are most active. The best operators provide knowledgeable crews and include light refreshments, though booking ahead is essential during peak season. Experienced sailors can even take basic lessons during their trip. Let’s explore the top-rated sailing tours available in Cape Town’s waters.
Good To Know
- Scenic one-hour catamaran cruises on Table Bay, offering panoramic views of Table Mountain and the waterfront, priced from €17.78 to $32.44 per person.
- Sunset Champagne Cruises with snacks, drinks, and sparkling wine, providing a romantic experience with panoramic vistas.
- Sushi Cruises allowing passengers to enjoy a 14-piece sushi meal while spotting marine life along the coastline.
- Classic schooner sailing experiences with a maximum of 40 passengers, showcasing the crew’s professionalism.
- Coastal Catamaran Cruises along the Atlantic coastline, offering opportunities to see seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Sailing in The Bay by Catamaran (One Hour)
A one-hour sailing excursion on Table Bay allows visitors to experience the scenic views of Cape Town and Table Mountain from the water.
Rated 4.6 out of 81 reviews, the experience boasts a 91% traveler recommendation. Depending on weather and wind conditions, the sailing course may include Robben Island or Milnerton.
The excursion includes sightseeing, with the possibility of seeing dolphins and whales, as well as commentary from the captain and crew.
While food and drinks aren’t specified, souvenir photos are available for purchase.
The meeting point is at the Waterfront Charters in the V&A Waterfront, and the experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.
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1- Hour Catamaran Cruise Cape Town
The 1-hour catamaran cruise from the V&A Waterfront to Clifton Beach offers travelers with limited time a chance to soak in the scenic views of Cape Town’s iconic landmarks.
With a maximum capacity of 60 passengers, the cruise provides panoramic vistas of the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Table Bay, Robben Island, and Cape Town Harbour.
Priced from €17.78 per person, the experience includes all fees, taxes, qualified staff, and a cash bar for alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it offers infant seats and is located near public transportation.
Reviews are generally positive, though some passengers reported crew indifference and unclear directions.
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1 Hour Coastal Catamaran Cruise From Cape Town
For travelers seeking a more comprehensive sailing experience along Cape Town’s spectacular coastline, the Hour Coastal Catamaran Cruise offers an appealing alternative to the 1-hour cruise.
This 1-hour journey departs from the V&A Waterfront, cruising along the Atlantic coastline with stunning views of the city and Table Mountain. The catamaran reaches the Green Point lighthouse before returning to the starting point.
With a maximum capacity of 300 travelers, the cruise includes all fees and taxes, though food and drinks aren’t provided.
While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, though infants, those with back problems, and pregnant travelers are advised against participating.
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Catamaran Sunset Champagne Cruise Cape Town
Travelers seeking a picturesque sunset experience on the Atlantic Ocean can embark on the Catamaran Sunset Champagne Cruise in Cape Town. The cruise starts at 5:30 PM and departs from the Waterfront Boat Tours, offering stunning views of Robben Island and Table Mountain.
Up to 60 guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages, a welcoming drink, and snacks while cruising along the coastline. Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems or pregnant individuals.
While the overall rating is 4.5 stars, some customers have reported issues with booking confirmations and overbooking, so it’s essential to arrive early and be aware of potential system problems.
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Catamaran Cruise in Cape Town
Visitors seeking a scenic alternative to crowded local bus services can embark on a catamaran cruise in Cape Town, South Africa. The cruise sails along the Atlantic coastline, offering unobstructed views of Robben Island, the 12 Apostles mountain range, and the iconic Table Mountain.
Travelers can relax as a qualified crew handles the sailing, making this an ideal activity for photography. The tours accommodate a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
The meeting point is at the V&A Waterfront, where the boat is docked. With an overall rating of 5.0 out of 3 reviews and a price starting at $23.73 per person, the catamaran cruise provides a memorable and affordable way to explore Cape Town’s stunning coastline.
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Catamaran Cruise and Sushi Experience in Cape Town
This catamaran cruise and sushi experience in Cape Town provides travelers with a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s stunning coastline and savor a delectable 14-piece sushi meal.
During the 1-hour boat cruise, guests can take in views of the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and the city skyline, while potentially spotting marine life like dolphins, whales, penguins, and seals.
The sushi menu includes classic dishes like Tuna California, Salmon/Tuna rainbow, and Prawn Bam Bam.
Pickup and drop-off are at the V&A Waterfront, and the experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Reviews mention stunning views and professional staff, but some concerns about timing and additional costs.
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Sailing in Table Bay Cape Town Aboard a Classic Schooner
A classic schooner offers travelers a unique opportunity to sail the waters of Table Bay in Cape Town.
With a maximum capacity of 40 passengers, this three-hour experience provides gorgeous views of the city and the iconic Table Mountain.
The crew is praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, and the reviews highlight the opportunity to spot seals.
Priced from €18.32 per person, the sailing trip includes life jackets and the option to purchase alcoholic beverages.
While not recommended for those with mobility issues or medical conditions, the moderate physical fitness level required makes this an enjoyable activity for most visitors to Cape Town.
Read our full review: Sailing in Table Bay Cape Town Aboard a Classic Schooner Review
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Cape Town: Sunset Cruise by Catamaran to Table Bay
Seeking to cap off a day in Cape Town with an unforgettable experience, travelers can embark on a 1.5-hour sunset cruise through the city’s picturesque Table Bay.
Sailing aboard a 39-foot catamaran, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, including Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain.
The cruise includes two complimentary glasses of sparkling wine and opportunities to spot marine life like dolphins and seals.
With a capacity of 36 passengers, the tour provides an intimate sailing experience.
Priced from $32.44 per person, the sunset cruise receives high marks from previous guests, who praise the friendly crew and fantastic views.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Sunset Cruise by Catamaran to Table Bay Review
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Cape Town: Coastal Catamaran Cruise
Travelers seeking a scenic coastal cruise in Cape Town can embark on the Coastal Catamaran Cruise, a 1-hour journey that showcases the city’s stunning Atlantic coastline.
Priced from $16.50 per person, the cruise departs daily from the V&A Waterfront and offers the opportunity to spot marine life like dolphins, whales, seals, and penguins.
Guests will enjoy the views of the picturesque Table Mountain from the luxury power catamaran.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 576 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable crew, beautiful scenery, and value for money.
Though not suitable for certain medical conditions, the cruise operates rain or shine, providing an enjoyable experience for all.
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Cape Town: 1 Hour Table Bay Sailing Tour
For travelers seeking a brief yet exhilarant sailing experience in Cape Town, the 1 Hour Table Bay Sailing Tour is a prime choice.
Departing from the heart of the V&A Waterfront, the tour offers an authentic sailing adventure with spectacular views of Table Mountain and the city.
Cruising across Table Bay, the 45-passenger Spirit of Victoria typically motors towards the Milnerton lighthouse before returning to Granger Bay.
At just $14.35 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with a cash bar available on board.
Positive reviews highlight the friendly crew and enjoyable experience, making this a popular option for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families alike.
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Cape Town: Table Bay Cruise by Catamaran
The Table Bay Cruise by Catamaran offers a captivating sailing experience in the heart of Cape Town. Priced from $15.95 per person, this 1-hour cruise aboard a 39-passenger catamaran provides magnificent views of Table Mountain and the city.
Passengers can enjoy spotting sea life along the route and choose to either sit on the fore deck or chat with the captain in the aft. The onboard cash bar offers water and cold drinks, and the sound system makes it ideal for special events.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 10 reviews, the Table Bay Cruise is a highly recommended way to experience sailing on Cape Town’s Atlantic seaboard.
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Cape Town Waterfront and Bay: Sailing Trip
A sailing trip across Cape Town‘s iconic bay offers visitors a unique perspective of the city’s picturesque waterfront and towering Table Mountain.
Priced at €15.73 per person, the 1-hour excursion includes the possibility of visiting Milnerton Lighthouse or Robben Island, depending on wind conditions.
The knowledgeable crew provides sailing lessons and assistance, with an alternative harbor cruise available in case of inclement weather.
Reviewers praise the scenic views, organization, and service, with an overall rating of 4.7/5.
Passengers are advised to bring sun protection, as Cape Town can be quite windy.
Safety measures are in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, rain or shine.
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Cape Town: Table Bay Morning Catamaran Cruise
Departing from the V&A Waterfront, the Table Bay Morning Catamaran Cruise offers an enchanting way to experience Cape Town’s iconic bay.
Rated 4.7 out of 5, this 1-hour cruise takes passengers along the coastline, offering stunning views of landmarks like Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Robben Island.
Travelers can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and spot marine life like seals and dolphins.
The cruise is priced at $16.50 and provides an ideal introduction to the city’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point on the water.
With its convenient duration and accessible location, this cruise is a popular choice for those seeking a relaxing yet scenic experience in Cape Town.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Table Bay Morning Catamaran Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Cape Town offers a variety of exciting sailing experiences for visitors. From one-hour catamaran cruises to sunset champagne sails, there’s something to suit every preference. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely trip around the bay or a more adventurous journey, these sailing tours provide a unique way to explore the city’s stunning coastline and take in its iconic landmarks from a new perspective.