Rating: 4.8 (320 reviews) | From R550 per person | Duration: 90 minutes | Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Experience a leisurely 75-minute boat cruise on the pristine Knysna Lagoon, home to the famous Knysna Heads and diverse bird and marine life. The tour offers a unique perspective on Knysna, a top favourite coastal town in South Africa. Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks and snacks as they are not provided. A camera, sunblock, sunhat, and windbreaker are recommended to bring on board.
Enjoy a 75-minute boat cruise to Knysna Heads, sail the calm waters of Featherbed Bay and learn about Knysna's coastal charm from the local crew.
Highlights
- Sail to the breathtaking Knysna Heads - towering cliffs marking the lagoon's entrance to the Indian Ocean
- Spot marine life like seals, dolphins, and abundant bird species in the pristine Knysna Lagoon (actually an estuary!)
- Enjoy panoramic views of Featherbed Bay's calm turquoise waters and Knysna's stunning coastline
- Hear fascinating local stories about Knysna's history, shipwrecks, oysters, and coastal charm from your expert skipper
- Family-friendly adventure on a stable, eco-friendly boat – perfect for soaking up South African sunshine!
About This Activity
A trip to Knysna isn't complete without cruising its world-famous lagoon, home to the imposing Knysna Heads and thriving wildlife. Departing from Thesen Island, this leisurely 75-minute tour on the "Legacy or Pearl Boat" offers a unique water-level perspective of one of South Africa's favorite coastal gems. Bring your own drinks and snacks (purchase nearby at Knysna Charters Cafe), camera, sunblock, hat, and windbreaker. Weather-dependent; vessels equipped with jackets/blankets. Multiple departures daily – ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers exploring the Garden Route.
Key Details
- Duration: 75 minutes
- Languages: English
- Max Group Size: Small group (vessel-dependent, up to 12 per boat; view fleet options)
Itinerary
For reference only – subject to weather and tides:
1. Departure from Thesen Island (10-15 min): Board from Coffee Shop/Check-in Point Knysna Charters Cafe and head into the lagoon.
2. Knysna Lagoon Cruise (30 min): Pass birdlife hotspots, old oyster farms, and Belvidere Estate.
3. Featherbed Bay (15 min): Sail calm turquoise waters, and spot occasional seals/dolphins.
4. Knysna Heads Viewpoint (15 min): Admire the dramatic cliffs and ocean entrance (no ocean exit for safety).
5. Return to the dock, soaking in coastal views the whole way.
What's Included
- 75-minute guided boat cruise to Knysna Heads on the "Legacy or Pearl Boat"
- Expert local skipper with live commentary
- Life jackets and safety briefing
- Eco-friendly, stable vessel suitable for all ages
Know Before You Go
- Weather-dependent; tours run rain or shine but may cancel for safety (full refund).
- Children of all ages welcome – family favorite!
- No hotel pickup; self-drive/public transport to Thesen Island.
- Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before. Likely to sell out in peak season (Dec-Jan).
- Security: Life jackets mandatory; skipper ensures safe, calm waters (no ocean beyond Heads).
Meeting Point
Knysna Charters Cafe, TH23 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Island Harbour Town, Knysna, 6571, South Africa GPS: -34.0485, 23.0480