If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa, you’ll want to make the most of its stunning natural scenery and breathtaking coastline. One of the best ways to do this is by taking a city cruise, which offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings. While there are plenty of city cruises to choose from in Cape Town, we’ve narrowed down the top eight that offer a mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly excursion, these boat rides are sure to deliver a memorable experience. So, grab your sunscreen, camera, and sense of adventure, and get ready to explore Cape Town’s coastline from a whole new angle.

The 8 Best City Cruises in Cape Town

1. Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Tour with 1-Way Hotel Pickup
2. Hout Bay: Seal Snorkeling Experience
3. Cape Town: Waterfront and Sunset Champagne Cruise
4. Cape Town: Pre-Sunset Champagne Cruise
5. Cape Town: Sunset Champagne Cruise and 3-Course Dinner
6. Hout Bay: Duiker Island Seal Colony Cruise
7. Cape Town: Marine Life Kayak Tour From the V&A Waterfront
8. Cape Town: Marine Wildlife Tour from the V&A Waterfront

The 8 Best City Cruises in Cape Town

1. Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Tour with 1-Way Hotel Pickup

Take the ferry to Robben Island and tour the infamous prison where Nelson Mandela was once held captive during the times of Apartheid. With a former inmate as your guide, learn about the history of South Africa’s dark past and life in the prison. Pre-book your ticket to guarantee your visit and travel in comfort with pickup from your hotel. The tour includes a ferry ticket, live guide, and hotel drop-off. Food and lunch are optional. Remember to bring your passport or a passport copy for identification. Keep in mind that the ferry ride is weather-dependent, and cancellations may occur. If this happens, you can reschedule directly at the Robben Island ticket counter or request a refund from the tour company.

2. Hout Bay: Seal Snorkeling Experience

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, book the Hout Bay: Seal Snorkeling Experience. Join the experienced crew as they take you on a scenic boat ride to Duiker Island, a breeding colony for the Cape Fur Seals. Once you’re there, you’ll have the opportunity to explore underwater life for yourself and spend approximately one hour snorkeling in the natural habitat of these amazing animals. Watch them play and interact on their own terms, and enjoy hot drinks and snacks on board as you head back. All necessary snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll meet your guide inside Hout Bay Harbour next to the Ground Up Café. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear, sunglasses, sun hat, and a change of clothes. Pets and large bags are not allowed, and all necessary diving gear will be provided on your dive. Please provide the correct contact number with a country code when booking in case of an emergency.

3. Cape Town: Waterfront and Sunset Champagne Cruise

Get ready for a picturesque sunset along the coast of Cape Town on this Waterfront and Sunset Champagne Cruise. Sip on local sparkling wine and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as the sun sets behind the Table Mountain range. The direction of the cruise is dependent on the wind and weather conditions, but your captain will inform you of the destination before departure. On some occasions, a motorboat may be used for the cruise along the Atlantic seaboard towards Clifton Beach. Expect magical views of Table Mountain and Cape Town Harbor in the evening if weather conditions make it impossible to head into Table Bay. This tour includes a cruise and two glasses of sparkling wine with extra drinks available for purchase at the cash bar. Don’t forget to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for the cruise. Meeting point is Shop 5 on the Waters Edge below the Large Flagpole in front of the Shopping Center. Boarding passes will be issued at Shop 5.

4. Cape Town: Pre-Sunset Champagne Cruise

A pre-sunset Champagne cruise is the perfect tour for families with kids who wish to enjoy great views of Cape Town and Table Mountain while spending quality time together. You’ll be able to capture stunning photos of the “golden hour” as the sun sets on the horizon. On board, you’ll have a glass of South African sparkling wine and listen to commentary from the crew. Keep an eye out for marine life such as whales, dolphins, penguins, and seals. The tour returns to V&A Harbour before the last sunset Champagne cruise. The activity includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and don’t forget to arrive at least 20 minutes before the activity starts. Comfortable shoes are a must, and large bags or luggage are not allowed. Note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

5. Cape Town: Sunset Champagne Cruise and 3-Course Dinner

Join a 90-minute sunset champagne cruise in Cape Town and enjoy a unique perspective of the waterfront while sipping on local sparkling wine. The sailboats Esperance and Serenity One follow the wind for this cruise, so the destination is weather-dependent. Afterwards, dine on a 3-course meal at a sea-facing restaurant overlooking the harbor. The tour includes two glasses of local sparkling wine on the cruise, gratuity at the restaurant, and other drinks aboard the cruise. Bring comfortable shoes and a warm jacket for the cruise. Don’t bring luggage or large bags. Collect boarding tickets for the cruise and restaurant at the booking office.

6. Hout Bay: Duiker Island Seal Colony Cruise

Choose from a 40 or 60-minute cruise and embark on a journey to Duiker Island where you can witness thousands of Cape Fur Seals in their natural habitat. Depart from Hout Bay harbor and revel in the stunning views of the rugged coastline, taking in the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive and Sentinel Mountain. As you traverse the waters, keep an eye out for other fascinating marine life such as dolphins and whales. The child-friendly cruise offers younger explorers the chance to get up close with wild Cape Fur Seals. After admiring the seal colony, the boat will head towards Moari Bay to catch a glimpse of the shipwrecks that ran aground in 1994 during one of the Cape’s infamous winter storms. The tour concludes as the boat crosses the bay back to Hout Bay harbor, along the striking cliffs and caves of Chapman’s Peak. Your cruise experience includes the cruise ticket, food, drinks, and gratuities. Please note that this tour is weather dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled if the weather is deemed unsuitable on the day. Join us at 60 Harbour Road Hout Bay, for a memorable experience of Cape Town’s remarkable coastline.

7. Cape Town: Marine Life Kayak Tour From the V&A Waterfront

Experience the breathtaking marine life and scenery in Cape Town with the Marine Life Kayak Tour from the V&A Waterfront. Witness the beauty of Table Mountain, Lions Head, Signal Hill, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range from the fresh blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Encounter active marine life such as local dolphins, whales, penguins, seals, sunfish, and more, and possibly get the chance to see a local shipwreck as well. The tour ends with a picturesque view of Cape Town’s treasure, Table Mountain, one of the most photogenic places on earth. No previous experience is required, as the stable boats and qualified guides ensure a safe and enjoyable tour. The tour includes kayaks, paddles, life jackets, safety equipment, drinks, snacks, and sun protection. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothing, windbreaker, sandals, sun protection, sunglasses, water bottle, and camera or phone to capture the unforgettable experience. Meet the activity provider’s office on Granger Bay Boulevard V&A Waterfront, located between the Oranjezicht farm market and the lookout waterfront. Join the two-hour Sea Kayak Tour and have your outlook of Cape Town positively changed forever.

8. Cape Town: Marine Wildlife Tour from the V&A Waterfront

Experience the best of marine wildlife in Cape Town with our 1.5-hour eco-cruise from the V&A Waterfront. Witness the beauty of Table Bay’s marine ecosystem and spot various sea creatures such as humpback and southern right whales, African penguins, sunfish, and Cape fur seals. Watch pods of dolphins breaching near the hydrofoil and get mesmerized by their acrobatic displays. Marvel at the stunning views of Table Mountain and Robben Island from the water while also encountering various species of birdlife. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, a 1.5-hour boat tour, and meals and drinks. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, people with heart problems, and wheelchair users. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. The meeting point is at the Marine Game Drive sales kiosk on the pier head opposite the clock tower. The tour is suitable for anyone over 3 years old, and it is weather-dependent, which means that you will be informed of such changes one day prior to the tour. The best time to see southern right whales is from June to November. Join us and discover the captivating marine life of Cape Town.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town

Cape Town is the second most populated city in South Africa, after Johannesburg. It is a major cultural and economic center, drawing visitors from all over the world. Located at the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town offers a wide range of attractions and activities, from beautiful beaches to world-renowned vineyards. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Cape Town.

What is the best time of year to visit Cape Town?

The best time to visit Cape Town is from October to March, which is summer in South Africa. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and sightseeing. However, this is also peak tourist season, so it is important to book accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.

What are the must-see attractions in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a wide range of attractions to suit everyone’s interests. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The iconic Table Mountain
• The V&A Waterfront, a bustling harbor with shops, restaurants, and entertainment
• The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
• The Cape of Good Hope, a scenic nature reserve at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula
• The Boulders Beach penguin colony
• The world-famous Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years

Is Cape Town a safe place to visit?

Cape Town, like any large city, has its share of crime. However, tourist areas are generally safe, and visitors who take basic precautions are unlikely to experience any problems. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, and to be vigilant when using public transport or taxis. In general, Cape Town is a friendly and welcoming city, and locals are often happy to offer advice and assistance to visitors.

What is the local currency in Cape Town?

The local currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Banks and foreign exchange bureaus are widely available, and ATMs are common throughout the city. Credit cards are accepted in most places, although it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions.

What is the cuisine like in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a vibrant and diverse food scene, with influences from many cultures. Some of the most popular local dishes include:

• Braai (barbecue) meat
• Bobotie (spiced meat dish with a custard topping)
• Bunny chow (a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry)
• Cape Malay curries and bredies (slow-cooked stews)
• Biltong (dried, salted meat)
• Rooibos tea, a local herbal tea

What are the best wine regions near Cape Town?

Cape Town is known for its world-class vineyards and wine regions. Some of the most popular wine regions to visit include:

• Stellenbosch
• Franschhoek
• Paicific Ocean Greece
• Paarl

These regions offer stunning scenery, excellent restaurants, and of course, a wide range of wines to sample and purchase.

What outdoor activities are available in Cape Town?

Cape Town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include:

• Hiking up Table Mountain
• Surfing at Muizenberg Beach
• Shark cage diving
• Whale watching
• Kayaking in False Bay
• Biking through wine regions

What are the best museums to visit in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a rich cultural history, and there are many museums that offer insights into the city’s past. Some of the most popular museums to visit include:

• The District Six Museum, which tells the story of a vibrant community that was forcibly removed during apartheid
• The Iziko South African Museum, which features natural history exhibits
• The Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island, which tells the story of Nelson Mandela and his imprisonment on the island
• The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, which showcases contemporary African art

Overall, Cape Town is a fascinating and beautiful city that offers something for everyone. By following basic safety precautions and taking advantage of the many attractions and activities available, visitors to Cape Town are sure to have a memorable and rewarding experience.