Cape Town: Table Bay Catamaran Cruise & Waterfront Views

Summary

Atlantic air, Table Mountain light, and easygoing Cape Town rhythm

You’ll step onto a modern catamaran at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront and drift across Table Bay with music playing softly and Table Mountain watching over you. Spot dolphins if you’re lucky, feel that Atlantic breeze on your skin, and share laughs with fellow travelers as you take in Robben Island’s silhouette. It’s only an hour but somehow feels like more.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way Table Mountain just sits there — like it’s posing for you — as we stepped onto the catamaran at the V&A Waterfront. There was this salty tang in the air, seagulls yelling overhead (one nearly stole someone’s chip), and our skipper, Sipho, grinned as he helped us aboard “A Beautiful Life.” I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed so quickly. Maybe it was the gentle sway or that soft playlist drifting from the speakers — something jazzy I couldn’t name. The city looked different from out here, kind of softer around the edges.

We cruised out toward Clifton Beach, past other boats — some tiny fishing skiffs, a couple of big container ships lumbering by. Sipho pointed out Robben Island in the distance; his voice got quieter for a second when he talked about its history. The breeze picked up and I found myself at the front deck, shoes off on the trampoline netting (it felt weirdly freeing). Sun on my face, wind in my hair — cliché maybe, but real. Someone spotted dolphins off to starboard and everyone scrambled for their phones; I just watched them for a bit instead. That moment stuck with me more than any photo could.

I ended up chatting with a couple from Joburg who’d never been on a boat before (“Not even a canoe!” she laughed). We shared some awkward sunscreen tips and tried to guess which cloud would hit Lion’s Head next. The whole cruise was only an hour but honestly, it felt longer in a good way — like time stretched out with every wave. On the way back Sipho played something local and upbeat; people started humming along without really knowing the words. When we docked again at the Waterfront, I almost wished we could go around one more time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 60-minute catamaran cruise Cape Town

• Board catamaran at V&A Waterfront
• Cruise towards Clifton beach
• Enjoy views of Table Mountain
• View V&A Waterfront and Cape Town Harbour
• See Robben Island and Atlantic Seaboard
• Relax with ambient music and fresh breeze

Top questions

How long is the Cape Town catamaran cruise?

The cruise lasts 60 minutes from departure to return.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The cruise departs from Cape Town's V&A Waterfront.

Is there shade or covered seating available?

Yes, there is comfortable shaded seating at the rear of the catamaran.

Will I see Table Mountain during the cruise?

Yes, you’ll have great views of Table Mountain throughout your cruise.

Are marine animals like dolphins often seen?

You may see dolphins or other marine life during your cruise but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Can infants join this Cape Town catamaran cruise?

Specialized infant seats are available for use during the cruise.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What happens if there aren’t enough passengers?

If minimum numbers aren’t met, your ticket may be rescheduled to another timeslot or vessel.

What’s included

Your hour-long outing includes all staff support plus fees and taxes—just show up at V&A Waterfront ready to board. There’s no need to worry about extras; everything is handled so you can just relax into those Atlantic breezes and city views before returning ashore.