Cape Town is one of the great places in the world to go out on a yacht, with spectacular scenery, plenty of sea life and good sailing for much of the year. New to yachting or already hooked, this guide covers what you need to know about yachting in Cape Town, from the types of boats and charter options to safety tips and etiquette on board.
Sailing yachts run on wind power and suit anyone who loves the traditional feel of sailing. They're a quiet, eco-friendly way to explore Cape Town's waters.
Motor yachts run on engines, so they're faster and more stable. They're ideal if you want to cover more distance quickly and in comfort.
Catamarans have two hulls, which makes them stable and roomy. With all that deck space they're great for families and parties.
Luxury yachts come with the best of everything: proper galleys, beautiful interiors and decks, and good sound systems. They're the top choice if you want a high-end day on the water. See our guide to catamarans vs motor yachts for help choosing.
In many countries, experienced sailors can do a bareboat charter, renting a yacht without crew and taking full control of the route. In South Africa, though, strict SAMSA maritime laws and insurance rules mean bareboat charters aren't allowed.
Crewed charters come with a professional skipper and crew, so you can relax without worrying about navigation or food. In Cape Town, every registered commercial boat works this way. Day charters are ideal for a few hours on the water without a big commitment, and perfect for seeing Robben Island and Clifton Beach. Prices start at R7,000 an hour on Le Cat Catamaran, and our Cape Town yacht hire prices guide lists the whole fleet.
Only a handful of boats in Cape Town offer overnight charters. If you'd like to spend a night at sea under the stars, it's well worth doing. Our overnight options are Princess Emma, Only One Yacht (R72,730 a night), Isabella Sailing Adventure (from R25,000, with an afternoon sail, a night at anchor and a morning sail) and IQ Catamaran.
On a public cruise you share the boat with other people. It's an affordable way to get out on the water, and a great way to meet people. Our Sunset Champagne Cruise is R720 per adult. You can see more cruise options on Sunset Cruise Cape Town.
Always check the forecast before you head out, because Cape Town's weather can change quickly. Keep a few days free on your trip so you can move your charter if the weather turns. Booking your yacht day early in your holiday gives you more chances to reschedule. Not sure how to read a forecast? The crew knows the local conditions and will advise you.
Every commercial charter carries life jackets. You don't have to wear one the whole time, but the crew may ask you to in rough seas. Young children should wear one for the whole trip.
The skipper and crew are experienced professionals who know these waters well. If they suggest a different route or cancel because of the sea or weather, even when it looks fine to you, trust them. Their priority is your safety, not spoiling your day. They know the local hazards, like reefs, currents and sudden wind, and that local knowledge keeps everyone safe.
SAMSA maritime law requires every commercial charter boat to carry essential safety gear, including flares, fire extinguishers, first aid kits and a VHF radio for emergencies. You can read more about why many boats stop at 12 guests.
Always follow the crew's instructions. Your safety on board is their top priority, so listen to them and respect what they ask.
Relaxing on deck with Table Mountain in the background
On a crewed yacht, treat the crew with respect and courtesy. They're there to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable day.
Be aware of noise, especially in the marina and at anchor, where sound carries. Keep music and voices at a reasonable volume.
Help keep the boat clean. Put rubbish in the bins and never throw anything into the sea.
Be careful not to damage the yacht, on purpose or by accident. Treat it as if it were your own and keep it neat and tidy for the whole charter. Use the equipment, furniture and facilities with care, and follow any instructions from the crew. Looking after the boat makes the day better for everyone and keeps it in great shape for the next guests.
Cape Town has plenty of beautiful places to explore by yacht:
Sail around Table Bay for wonderful views of Table Mountain and the city skyline. The water is usually fairly calm, which makes it a good choice for first-timers.
A charming fishing village with a busy harbour, about 30 minutes' drive from the city. Enjoy fresh seafood and explore the nearby beaches and markets. Out on the water, Duiker Island is home to a large colony of Cape fur seals, and the cliffs of Chapman's Peak rise straight out of the sea.
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Charter boats can't land there, but sailing around it combines history with a beautiful stretch of sea.
Head to Cape Point for a dramatic coastline and lots of sea life. It's a more challenging trip, better suited to experienced sailors.
Drop anchor off Clifton Beach, famous for its white sand and clear water. It's a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, if you're brave enough for the cold Atlantic.
Yachting in Cape Town mixes adventure, comfort and spectacular nature. Beginner or experienced sailor, there's something for everyone, with plenty of boats and beautiful places to go. Know the types of boats, pick the right charter, follow the safety basics and be a good guest on board, and you'll get the most out of your time on the water. Happy sailing!
