When Cape Town heats up, the city’s best escapes are often found offshore.
V&A Waterfront/Adedayo Adekunle/Unsplash
Cooling sea breezes, open horizons and marine encounters offer instant relief from crowded beaches and busy roads. From family friendly harbour cruises to wildlife rich lagoon crossings, ferry and boat trips around Cape Town and the West Coast are among the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore the region during the festive season. Many routes require little planning, making them ideal for visitors short on time but keen to experience the coast from a different perspective.
Hout Bay Seal Trips
Few boat trips are as iconic or accessible as the short cruise from Hout Bay Harbour to Duiker Island. Operating year round but particularly popular during summer, these seal viewing trips offer a close up look at thousands of Cape fur seals that inhabit the rocky outcrop just offshore.
The journey itself is part of the appeal. Boats weave past cliffs and kelp beds while skippers share insights into local marine life and the history of the bay. In summer, conditions are often calm, making the trip suitable for families with children. Most tours last between 30 and 45 minutes, making them easy to slot into a day of harbour browsing or beach time.
Hout Bay is also well set up for visitors, with restaurants, markets and seafood counters lining the harbourfront. Booking ahead during December and January is advisable, especially for morning departures when the sea is usually at its smoothest.
V and A Waterfront Harbour Cruises
For a more leisurely introduction to Cape Town by sea, the V and A Waterfront harbour cruises are a reliable festive season option. These short boat trips stay within the protected harbour, offering views of Table Mountain, the city skyline and working docks without venturing into open ocean.
Cruises typically run throughout the day and into the evening, with sunset departures being especially popular in summer. Some operators offer themed experiences, including champagne cruises or live music sailings, while others focus on informative commentary about the port and its maritime heritage.
Because the harbour is sheltered, these cruises are a good choice for visitors who may be hesitant about rough seas. They also suit multi generational groups, offering easy boarding, smooth sailing and plenty of photo opportunities.
Simon’s Town Marine Tours
Simon’s Town provides access to some of the most wildlife rich waters along the Cape Peninsula. Marine tours from the historic naval town often focus on dolphin watching, whale sightings in season, and scenic cruises past False Bay’s rugged coastline.
Summer brings excellent chances of encountering common dolphins, Cape fur seals and a variety of seabirds. Some operators also include stops near Boulders Beach, where African penguins can sometimes be spotted swimming alongside the boat.
The appeal of Simon’s Town lies in its quieter pace compared to the city, combined with its strong maritime character. After a morning on the water, visitors can explore the town’s naval museum, cafés and tidal pools. It is a rewarding full day outing for those willing to travel a little beyond central Cape Town.
Langebaan Lagoon Ferries
Just over an hour’s drive north of Cape Town, Langebaan Lagoon offers a completely different boating experience. Set within the West Coast National Park, the lagoon’s calm, shallow waters are ideal for relaxed ferry trips and scenic crossings.
Boat cruises here focus on birdlife, wildflowers in season and the striking contrast between turquoise water and white sandbanks. Summer is a prime time for lagoon outings, with warm weather and long days encouraging slow exploration.
These trips are particularly well suited to families and travellers seeking a quieter alternative to ocean based cruises. The lagoon’s protected environment means minimal swell, making it comfortable even for those prone to seasickness. Many visitors combine a boat trip with a picnic or a visit to nearby beaches.
Practical Tips for Festive Season Boat Trips
Booking in advance is strongly recommended during December and early January, especially for morning departures and sunset cruises. Weather conditions can change quickly, so flexibility is useful when planning. Sunscreen, hats and light windbreakers are essential, even on short trips, as reflected light off the water can be intense.
Most operators provide life jackets and basic safety briefings, and many trips are suitable for children. Checking age restrictions and sea condition policies before booking will help avoid disappointment.
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