Last Updated on December 17, 2025 by Hannah Stephenson
A boat cruise from the Waterfront is a lovely way to take in Cape Town’s beautiful coastline. I mean, what’s better than relaxing and maybe enjoying a drink or two while you soak in the views? You’ll probably spot some marine life along the way, too.
I recently did this 1-hour boat cruise from the Waterfront. Now, I’m going to share my full review with you to helo you decide whether or not it’s worth it. And of course, I’ve got all the need-to-know info on timings, prices, and more. Let’s get into it!
About the Waterfront boat cruise
Price: R370
Duration: 1 hour
Departure time: 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, or 5:15 pm pm
Leaves from: V&A Waterfront
I wanted to do a Waterfront boat cruise primarily to enjoy views of the city’s mountainous landscape from out on the water. It just seemed like a lovely way to spend a summer afternoon!
There are a few different options available but I chose this particular cruise because I felt it was reasonably priced and it offered free cancellation. Plus, it had over 200 5-star reviews, so it seemed like a good choice.
I ended up having a really good time! I was lucky enough to spot a seal playing with a fish. I’m sure that the fish didn’t feel quite so fortunate, though!
I also saw a dolphin and a sunfish. Sadly, I didn’t manage to snap a photo of the dolphin as it was pretty brief, but it was an exciting moment.
There was a fun atmosphere on the boat and the crew were really cool. It’s suitable for both families and groups of friends, but I went on my own and still had fun.
You can grab your spot on the Waterfront cruise here!
What’s included?
The cruise that I did cost R370 , which is the price for the cruise only. Drinks cost extra, and there’s a bar on board where they were selling drinks. They were pretty reasonably priced – about the same as what you’d pay at a bar.
What will I see on a Waterfront boat cruise?
The views of Table Mountain are awesome from the outset and it didn’t take long for Lion’s Head to come into view.
I went on a clear day, so I could see out all the way to Robben Island, as well as Green Point and Sea Point.
Best of all, I saw a fair amount of marine life, too! I spotted a sun fish floating on its side, as well as seals and a dolphin. The captain even turned off the engine and drove the boat closer to the animals so that we could all get a closer look.
Do you get wet on a Waterfront boat cruise?
Only if you sit in the splash zone!
The people who chose to sit at the front of the boat were warned and were able to keep their valuables inside so that they didn’t get damaged. However, I chose to sit on the top floor and I stayed completely dry.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes! There were quite a few families with young kids on board when I went. They all seemed to be having a fantastic time!
Do you need to book in advance?
Yes, but not very far. You just need to make a reservation online, but not weeks in advance or anything like that.
I went during the first week of January, which is peak season in Cape Town, and was able to book my ticket just a few days in advance.
Is this the best boat cruise in Cape Town?
It’s not my personal favourite, no.
I did enjoy it, but I preferred the sunset champagne cruise that I did. It lasted for longer, the sunset was epic, I got complimentary bubbles, and there was a party atmosphere on board. You can read my full review of the sunset cruise here!
However, I think that a daytime boat cruise is definitely a better choice for families because the sunset one is a bit more boozy.
Thanks so much for reading this review! I’ve got a ton of resources on the best activites to enjoy in Cape Town, so make sure to check out the following: