Cape Town Table Bay: Small-Group Ocean Safari with Guide

Summary

Explore marine life near Cape Town on a guided boat safari

You’ll set out from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront on a small-group ocean safari led by an experienced local skipper. Feel the wind as your RIB zips across Table Bay searching for dolphins, seals, penguins—even whales if you’re lucky. With expert guidance and time to drift quietly among marine life, this is one hour you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat — literally. We’d underestimated Cape Town traffic and ended up jogging the last bit to Quay 5, laughing and out of breath. The Waterfront Charters crew just grinned and waved us aboard like it happened every day. There was this salty tang in the air, and I could already hear the gulls arguing overhead before we even left the dock.

Our skipper, Sipho, handed out bright orange life jackets (not my color, but hey) and gave us a quick rundown about what to expect on this ocean safari. He had that calm way of talking that made you trust him instantly — plus he knew every little thing about Table Bay. As soon as we cleared the harbor, he gunned the RIB and we bounced over the waves so fast I nearly lost my hat. The wind stung my cheeks and I caught myself grinning like a kid. Dolphins showed up first — three of them weaving right alongside us for a minute or two before vanishing under the surface again.

We slowed down after that, drifting along while Sipho pointed out Robben Island in the distance and told us stories about old shipwrecks (he swears there’s still gold somewhere out there). At one point, a seal popped its head up so close I could see water dripping from its whiskers. There were penguins too — tiny black-and-white dots waddling on some rocks further off. I tried to get a photo but mostly just ended up with blurry splashes and my own thumb in the corner.

The whole thing lasted about an hour but honestly felt longer — in a good way. It wasn’t one of those tours where you’re rushed from sight to sight; it was more like being let in on some local secret for a while. The weather held up for us, though Sipho said they sometimes have to cancel if it gets rough (makes sense once you feel those waves). I still think about that salty spray and how quiet it got when everyone stopped talking to watch for whales — nobody wanted to break the moment, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ocean Safari on Cape Town Coastline

• Depart from Quay 5 Waterfront
• Enjoy fast ride out of harbour
• Search for marine life slowly
• Spot seals, dolphins, whales, penguins
• Listen to skipper's informative briefing

Top questions

How long is the Cape Town ocean safari tour?

The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes from departure to return.

Where does the ocean safari depart from in Cape Town?

The tour departs from Quay 5 at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

Is marine wildlife guaranteed on this Table Bay boat trip?

No specific sightings are guaranteed; wildlife varies each trip.

Are children allowed on this ocean safari experience?

Yes, kids can join under adult supervision during the cruise.

What kind of boat is used for this safari?

A rigid inflatable boat (RIB) is used for speed and safety.

Is pickup included for this Cape Town ocean safari?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Quay 5 directly.

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

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

What’s included

Your experience includes a 60-minute ride aboard a rigid inflatable boat departing from Quay 5 at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, with an expert local skipper guiding your search for marine life along Table Bay’s coastline—life jackets provided throughout your adventure.