Imagine a Sunday spent on sparkling waters, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and topped with a hearty buffet. That’s exactly what you get with the Hartbeespoort Dam cruise and buffet experience. This combo promises a relaxing day away from the hustle, blending natural beauty, good food, and friendly service into one enjoyable package.
What catches our eye about this tour? First, the great value for money—at just $37 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy a scenic cruise and a filling buffet. Second, the stunning views of Hartbeespoort Dam and its lush surroundings are hard to beat. Lastly, the hassle-free package makes planning easy, with everything scheduled neatly and included.
One thing to keep in mind is the limitations for certain guests—not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for those with motion sickness or over 331 lbs (150 kg). Still, for most travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic outing, it’s a solid choice. This experience suits families, couples celebrating special occasions, or anyone who just wants to relax, enjoy good food, and take in impressive views.
Key Points
- Affordable combo: Excellent value with a full buffet and scenic cruise.
- Beautiful scenery: Views of Hartbeespoort Dam, flora, fauna, and local landmarks.
- Convenience: All-in-one package that simplifies planning.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for celebrations and casual outings.
- Food quality: Delicious buffet with positive reviews about the taste.
- Limited accessibility: Not ideal for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
A Scenic Voyage on Hartbeespoort Dam
The main draw of this experience is the 1-hour scenic cruise aboard a vessel that offers panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings. The cruise departs from the Harties Boat Company at Kommando Nek Resort, located in Kosmos, making it easy to access whether you’re staying locally or coming from further afield.
Travelers can choose from multiple timeslots, starting as early as 10:00 AM up to 5:15 PM, giving flexibility to fit into your day’s plans. The cruise is not just about sightseeing; it’s also about soaking up the tranquil atmosphere, listening to gentle music, and enjoying the company of fellow passengers.
From reviews, we learn that the crew is often praised for their friendliness and professionalism. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat rides are well organised and well managed, big up to the team,” highlighting how smooth and efficient the cruise experience tends to be. Another appreciated the knowledgeable guides who shared insights into the dam’s history and environment, making the journey both relaxing and educational.
Looking for more options in Hartbeespoort? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What You’ll See and Feel During the Cruise
Expect stunning views of the dam’s shimmering waters, framed by lush hills and indigenous vegetation. The boat glides quietly, giving you ample opportunity for photos and quiet reflection. Some reviews mention the presence of a photographer onboard, capturing moments as you relax—adding a touch of specialness to the day.
You’ll also spot local fauna—birds, perhaps some waterfowl—and get a glimpse of the dam’s history and ecological significance through the commentary provided. The cruise isn’t long, but its peaceful pace makes it feel like a mini retreat.
The Buffet Experience: More Than Just Food
Following the cruise, guests head to the Zanzibar Beach Cafe for a ‘Eat All You Can’ Sunday buffet. The food is often praised for its quality, and reviewers like Thandi note, “I LOVED the food. I don’t know who was cooking that day, but they did the things.” This suggests that the buffet offers a good variety of dishes, likely including South African favorites and possibly some international options.
The buffet is served from 13:00, aligning perfectly with the cruise timing, so you can transition smoothly from boat to table. The value here is notable—for R595 per person, you get a hearty meal and an hour on the water, making it an economical way to enjoy a full afternoon of leisure.
Dining at the Zanzibar Beach Cafe
The cafe’s setting adds to the relaxed vibe, with outdoor seating offering views of the dam. While the menu isn’t detailed in the info, reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with the food, noting the quality and generous servings. Expect a mix of salads, grilled meats, and South African staples—ideal for fueling up after your cruise or simply enjoying a leisurely Sunday meal.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Tips
The package includes the buffet and the cruise, but it’s important to note what isn’t included. All drinks on the cruise and at the cafe are payable separately via cash or card, and outside food or drinks are not permitted due to licensing restrictions.
To make the most of your day, bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and your camera. Comfortable shoes are recommended for ease of movement, especially if you want to explore the surroundings or walk around the dock area.
Meeting at the Harties Boat Company, you should arrive a little early to settle in and enjoy the scenery beforehand. The cruise is not wheelchair friendly, but staff are available to assist those with walking disabilities. Children under 12 must wear life jackets during the cruise, and safety briefings are provided.
What Could Be Better?
Some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the age of the boat or crew mood, with one reviewer mentioning that the “boat is old and unflattering” and the crew seemed unhappy. While these comments are not universal, they highlight that the vessel might not be the newest or most luxurious, and overall experience can vary depending on the day and staff.
Weather can also impact the cruise; cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe, but in that case, you’re either moved to the next available date or issued a voucher.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?
This experience is ideal for families, couples, or groups celebrating special moments. The combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and good value makes it a practical choice for those seeking a relaxed, memorable outing. It’s especially suitable for anyone wanting to enjoy South Africa’s natural landscape with minimal fuss—no complicated planning required.
It’s worth noting that the experience might not appeal to people with limited mobility or who prefer more modern boats. Still, the overall positive reviews, especially praising the food, views, and friendly service, suggest it’s a well-rounded outing worth considering.
If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise paired with a generous Sunday buffet, this combo offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to spend your Sunday. The views are beautiful, the food satisfying, and the entire package offers excellent value for money. Just remember to bring your sun protection and enjoy what could easily become a highlight of your visit to Hartbeespoort Dam.
FAQ
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 are required to wear life jackets during the cruise, and the relaxed environment makes it family-friendly.
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
No, outside food and drinks aren’t allowed due to licensing rules. All drinks on board and at the cafe are purchased separately.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery without it feeling rushed.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring a camera for the views.
Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the cruise isn’t wheelchair friendly, but staff can assist those with walking disabilities.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise can be canceled for safety reasons, but you’ll get a voucher valid for 6 months or be moved to the next available cruise date.
Are there any hidden costs?
Beyond the R595 package, drinks on the cruise and at the cafe are payable separately. No outside food or drinks allowed.
What makes this experience special?
The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly crew, good value, and delicious buffet makes it a memorable, relaxed outing.
Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, bookings can be made with the option to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for your planning.
In summary, this Hartbeespoort Dam cruise and buffet combo offers a lovely way to enjoy a Sunday in South Africa’s scenic heartland. With a balance of natural beauty, good food, and ease of access, it’s well worth considering if you’re looking for a relaxed and memorable day out.
You can check availability for your dates here: