Cape Town: Sunset Catamaran Cruise on Table Bay with Bubbles

Imagine gliding across the calm waters of Table Bay as the sun dips behind the iconic Table Mountain — that’s what this sunset catamaran cruise promises. With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 400 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both memorable and worth the modest price of around $34 per person.

We love this cruise for its breathtaking scenery, relaxed vibe, and the chance to sip bubbly while soaking up views that are hard to beat. A big perk is the opportunity to spot wild dolphins and seals, adding an element of wildlife thrill to the evening. The opportunity to enjoy Cape Town’s glittering Waterfront at night as you sail back is a special bonus. However, it’s worth noting that no hotel pickup or drop-off is included—which means you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a leisurely, scenic experience during Cape Town’s golden hour. It suits visitors looking for a laid-back activity with plenty of opportunities for fantastic photos and wildlife sightings. If you’re after a romantic sunset, a fun outing with friends, or just want a peaceful way to end the day, this trip checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Watch Table Mountain turn gold as the sun sets over the city.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chances to see dolphins, seals, and even whales during the cruise.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Sit on the foredeck or chat with the captain in shaded areas.
• Included Bubbles: Sip two glasses of sparkling wine as part of the experience.
• Ideal Timing: Perfect for a late afternoon to early evening adventure.
• Meeting Point: Located at the V&A Waterfront, no hotel transfers included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Sunset Catamaran Cruise

This relaxed cruise lasts roughly 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. You’ll board a 39-foot catamaran, which feels spacious enough for a small, intimate group typically limited to around 36 guests — the perfect size for a friendly, lively atmosphere without feeling crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from the V&A Waterfront: You’ll meet at the Wild Horizons ticket office located at Shop 7 on Quay 5. It’s straightforward to reach if you’re staying in the city center or near the waterfront area. From here, the crew will help you onto your vessel, which is equipped with trampolines at the foredeck—ideal for lounging and taking in the views during the warmer months.

Sailing along Cape Town’s Coast: Once aboard, the captain will steer the vessel past the Milnerton lighthouse, a notable landmark, and across Granger Bay. The route offers sweeping views of the city, the mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean. During the journey, you can expect to see sea lions, seals, and even whales, as some lucky travelers have remarked. As some reviews note, seeing a whale or dolphin swimming nearby can turn an already scenic cruise into a highlight.

Watching the Sunset: As the sun begins to sink, the sky often lights up with hues of orange, pink, and purple. Reviewers have described the sunset as “insane” and “absolutely worth it,” with some lucky guests even catching glimpses of whales swimming alongside the boat. The crew will encourage toasting with your two glasses of sparkling wine, which many note is a delightful way to mark the end of a perfect day.

Sailing Back to the Waterfront: As darkness falls, Cape Town’s lights flicker on in the distance, creating a magical backdrop. Many reviews mention how impressive it is to see the city lit up from the water, especially as you cruise back towards the V&A Waterfront. It’s a scene that feels both glamorous and authentic, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The Experience on Board

The crew plays a big part in making this cruise enjoyable. According to reviews, guides like Steven and his team are not only friendly and humorous but also very attentive—especially to guests prone to seasickness, with some reviewers noting how blankets were provided for the chilly return journey.

Music is played during the cruise, adding to the relaxed vibe, though some guests suggest that more current or varied playlists could enhance the experience further. The atmosphere is versatile: it’s lively enough for groups and romantic enough for couples, with plenty of opportunities to chat or simply unwind while soaking in the views.

Why Travelers Love It

• Wildlife sightings: Many guests, including one who saw a whale “swim around us,” find the wildlife encounters to be a unexpected highlight.
• Quality of the crew: Reviewers frequently mention how friendly, funny, and professional the guides are. One guest noted that the crew remembered them from a previous trip, which adds a personal touch.
• Good value for money: For just $34, you get not only a scenic cruise but also two glasses of sparkling wine, making it an affordable luxury. Several reviews comment on the fair prices and the quality of drinks.
• Stunning sunsets: Several reviewers call the sunset “insane” and “beautiful,” confirming that this cruise truly delivers on its scenic promise.

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Things to Keep in Mind

While most guests have glowing reviews, some mention the bumpy ride, especially if the sea is choppy. It’s advisable to take seasickness precautions if you’re prone to feeling unwell on boats. Also, since no hotel pickup is included, make sure you plan how to get to the V&A Waterfront, especially if you’re staying further out.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $34 per person, this cruise offers remarkable value. It combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and a relaxed atmosphere, along with two glasses of sparkling wine, which many reviewers agree is a nice touch. Considering the quality of the views and the friendly crew, it’s an activity that feels both affordable and worthwhile, especially for those wanting a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

While it’s not a luxury cruise, the vessel and crew are described as safe, fun, and well-maintained, which adds confidence to your experience. The inclusion of blankets for the colder part of the evening is a thoughtful detail, ensuring comfort regardless of weather.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for romantic couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful yet scenic escape. It suits those who appreciate nature and wildlife, enjoy photos of iconic landmarks like Table Mountain from a different perspective, or simply want to unwind with a glass of bubbly as the sun sets. It’s also a perfect choice for travelers who prefer small group settings over large tours, given the limited number of guests.

If you’re after a lively party atmosphere, music and crowd size are manageable, but it’s more about the stunning visuals and serene vibe than high-energy entertainment. For families or those with seasickness concerns, just take appropriate precautions beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking online or in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. You’ll need to meet at the Wild Horizons ticket office at the V&A Waterfront.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, but bring a sweater or jacket for the cooler evening weather, especially when returning after sunset.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, drinks are supplied on board, including the two glasses of sparkling wine included in the ticket price.

What if I’m prone to seasickness?
It’s advisable to take seasickness medication if you’re concerned about feeling unwell, as the ride can be bumpy at times.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect light activity for the late afternoon or early evening.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature suggests it’s family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have young children.

Are there any restrictions for the weather?
Cruises may be canceled or rescheduled in case of severe weather, so check locally or with the provider before your planned date.

Final Thoughts

This sunset catamaran cruise in Cape Town offers a peaceful, scenic way to end your day. For just around $34, you get a memorable journey filled with stunning views, wildlife sightings, and two glasses of bubbly — a pretty great deal for a slice of Cape Town’s natural beauty.

It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy relaxed atmospheres, scenic photography, and wildlife encounters. The friendly crew, great value, and the chance to see the city’s skyline and Table Mountain from the water make it a highlight for many visitors.

If you’re after an authentic, laid-back experience that combines nature, city views, and a touch of elegance, this cruise deserves a spot on your Cape Town to-do list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In summary, this cruise is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a scenic, affordable, and relaxed way to enjoy Cape Town’s sunset. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, taking family photos, or just want a peaceful evening on the water, it delivers a memorable, visually stunning experience worth every penny.