Practical and easy-to-navigate, Knysna’s boat tours showcase the best of South Africa’s Garden Route waterways. The compact lagoon system and nearby ocean waters create perfect conditions for memorable maritime experiences.
Two standout tours deserve special attention: The Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour offers reliable wildlife spotting with expert guides who know exactly where to find whales, dolphins, and seals. The evening Sunset Cruise combines local treats (Knysna oysters and regional wines) with spectacular views of the lagoon’s famous sandstone cliffs, called “The Heads.”
For history buffs, the Vintage Yacht experience provides an elegant throwback to colonial times while gliding past the town’s historic waterfront.
Let’s check out the top-rated boat tours in Knysna.
Key Points
- The Knysna Lagoon Boat Cruises and Serendipity Knysna Lagoon Cruise offer intimate experiences for up to 12 travelers to observe diverse wildlife at reasonable prices.
- The Luxury Catamaran Marine Adventure Tour and the 2.5-Hour Day Sail & Lunch Charter provide scenic sightseeing with premium amenities like bubbly and light meals.
- The Knysna Sunset Sailing Cruise and Knysna Sunset Cruise offer excellent sunset views, light dinner, and bubbly options, with highly rated crew and overall experiences.
- The Knysna Lagoon Pontoon Boat Cruise is wheelchair accessible and offers a guided tour with wildlife viewing and swimming opportunities.
- Specialized cruises like the Oyster & White Wine Tasting Cruise and Garden Route Coastline Tour provide educational and cultural experiences along with scenic highlights.
Magic Lagoon – Coquette Knysna Heads Cruise
The Magic Lagoon – Coquette Knysna Heads Cruise offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Knysna Lagoon and the iconic Knysna Heads.
With a maximum of 12 passengers, the cruise provides an intimate and personalized experience. The 100% recommended tour features a friendly and knowledgeable captain who offers educational and entertaining insights into the local area.
Passengers will be provided with all necessary safety gear and life jackets. Although not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Priced from $28.40 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Magic Lagoon – Coquette Knysna Heads Cruise Review
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Knysna: Luxury Catamaran Marine Adventure Tour
A luxury catamaran awaits adventurous travelers for the Knysna: Luxury Catamaran Marine Adventure Tour. This 2-hour excursion provides the chance to sail through the renowned Knysna Heads and enjoy the stunning Garden Route coastline.
Guests can sip bubbly while spotting playful seals and dolphins. The tour includes light snacks, with additional food and drinks available for purchase.
Past participants have praised the skilled crew and the comfort of the catamaran, as well as the quality of the on-board meals. Priced from $64.78 per person, this tour is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Cancellations up to 24 hours prior are fully refundable.
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Knysna Sunset Sailing Cruise, Light Dinner & Bubbly
Set out on a serene sunset sailing adventure along the Knysna waterfront and into the Indian Ocean with the Knysna Sunset Sailing Cruise.
Rated 4.8 with a Badge of Excellence, this yacht excursion offers the perfect opportunity to witness the golden and pink hues of the sunset over the ocean.
Enjoy a light dinner featuring savory snacks, seasonal fruits, and cheeses, accompanied by two glasses of South African sparkling wine.
Wildlife sightings, such as dolphins, seals, and potentially whales, add to the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise accommodates dietary requirements with advance notice.
With a 30-minute check-in and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this is a must-do activity in Knysna.
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Knysna: Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour by Boat
Knysna’s Close Encounter Whale Watching Tour by Boat offers a thrilling opportunity to witness the majestic humpback and southern right whales in their natural habitat.
Departing daily from Thesen Island, this 2-hour boat tour sails through the Knysna Heads and out to the Indian Ocean, with the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and penguins along the way.
Led by an experienced skipper and guide, the tour provides detailed narration and a whale spotter to enhance the experience. Guests can enjoy scenic views of the Knysna estuary and coastline, while the tour’s safety-first approach ensures a comfortable journey.
With a 4.6/5 rating from 147 reviews, this close encounter with whales is a must-do activity in Knysna.
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Knysna Sunset Cruise
Departing from Thesen Island, the Knysna Sunset Cruise offers travelers a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Knysna Lagoon and the Knysna Heads at dusk.
This small-group tour aboard an oyster boat provides stunning sunset views as it journeys towards the iconic Knysna Heads. Guests can enjoy complimentary white wine and fresh oysters while taking in the scenic route.
The cruise has received excellent reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending it. Priced at $42.60 per person, the experience can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a maximum capacity of 12 travelers, this intimate sunset cruise is an ideal way to explore Knysna’s picturesque waterways.
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Knysna: Vintage Yacht Cruise With Optional Food & Champagne
For those seeking a truly unique and captivating maritime experience in Knysna, the 104-year-old Thames River Launch provides a vintage yacht cruise that showcases the area’s iconic scenery.
The 1-hour cruise departs daily from the Turbine Hotel on Thesen Island, with a live English-speaking guide providing educational insights. Guests can marvel at the Knysna Lagoon and the renowned Knysna Heads while enjoying optional pre-ordered snacks, bubbly, and a selection of champagnes.
Although not suitable for those with mobility impairments, the cruise boasts an overall 4.5/5 rating, highlighting the knowledgeable guide and the pleasant experience, despite weather challenges.
Prices start from Kč 661 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
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Knysna Lagoon Boat Cruises
Nestled within the picturesque Knysna Lagoon, these boat cruises offer visitors a tranquil and immersive experience to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Lasting approximately an hour, the cruises accommodate up to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable crew.
Sailing past the iconic Knysna Heads, coastal towns, and Featherhead Bay, guests can observe a diverse array of birds and marine life.
With a 4.5-star rating from 30 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, these cruises have earned a Badge of Excellence from Viator and TripAdvisor.
Refreshments are available for purchase, and the cruises are accessible for strollers and service animals.
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Knysna: Knysna Lagoon Pontoon Boat Cruise
The Knysna Lagoon Pontoon Boat Cruise provides visitors with a tranquil and immersive experience to explore the natural beauty of the Knysna Estuary.
Priced from $27.68 per person, the 1-1.5 hour guided tour allows guests to witness the stunning scenery of Thesen Islands and the Knysna Lagoon.
Onboard the Tom Cruiser pontoon boat, a licensed skipper offers informative commentary.
Highlights include wildlife and marine life viewing, swimming, and scenic sightseeing.
With a maximum group size of 10, the cruise offers an intimate experience.
Wheelchair accessible, the tour can be booked with a reserve now and pay later option.
Customer reviews praise the excellent value and knowledgeable staff, rating the experience 4.9/5 overall.
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Serendipity Knysna Lagoon Cruise
At the heart of Knysna’s enchanting lagoon, the Serendipity Knysna Lagoon Cruise offers visitors an intimate and immersive journey through the area’s natural wonders.
With a 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience. Passengers can expect all necessary safety gear and light snacks, while drinks and additional refreshments can be arranged from the nearby Knysna Experience restaurant.
The cruise departs from the Knysna Lagoon Boat Charters – All4One location, accommodating a maximum of 10 travelers. Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise welcomes service animals and infants sitting on laps.
Priced from $28.40 per person, the Serendipity Knysna Lagoon Cruise offers a flexible booking option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Knysna: 2.5-Hour Day Sail & Lunch Charter
For those seeking a more expansive nautical adventure beyond the intimate Serendipity cruise, the Knysna: 2.5-Hour Day Sail & Lunch Charter offers a luxurious sightseeing experience through the region’s picturesque waterways.
This 2.5-hour cruise takes guests along the Knysna Estuary and Garden Route coastline, providing opportunities to encounter local marine and birdlife. A light lunch with cheeses, fruits, and a complimentary glass of chilled bubbles is included.
Onboard amenities such as a cash bar, toilet facilities, and additional refreshments ensure a comfortable journey. With a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, this weather-dependent activity requires a minimum of 4 guests to run and adheres to a strict no-shoes policy.
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Knysna: Scenic Cruise Aboard a Luxury Lounge Cruiser
Although departing from the Sirocco Restaurant jetty on Thesen Island, this 100-minute Knysna: Scenic Cruise Aboard a Luxury Lounge Cruiser transports guests on a serene journey through the Knysna Lagoon.
Priced from $24.92 per person, the cruise offers the chance to relax with friends and family while enjoying scenic views of the Knysna Heads. Guests can observe local wildlife and optionally pre-order champagne and oysters.
The cruise is guided in Afrikaans and English, but not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility issues. Guests should bring warm clothing, sun protection, and a towel, as there are no toilets onboard.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 26 reviews, this cruise is a highlight of many visitors’ time in Knysna.
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Knysna: Wine & Oyster Luxury Lounger Sunset Cruise
The Knysna: Wine & Oyster Luxury Lounger Sunset Cruise offers an enchanting way to experience the natural beauty of the Knysna Lagoon.
At $41.53 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour provides scenic views, award-winning South African white wine, and fresh oysters.
Departing from Thesen Island, the cruise accommodates up to 12 passengers per boat, with additional boats available.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guide and the overall value for money.
Warm clothing, sunglasses, and a windbreaker are recommended to fully enjoy this sunset experience on the water.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to Knysna.
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Knysna: Sunset Lagoon Cruise
Passengers can embark on a captivating 1.5-hour sunset cruise around the serene Knysna Lagoon. The cruise offers breathtaking views of the Knysna Heads and waterfront landmarks, allowing guests to admire the area’s natural beauty.
Participants can enjoy pre-ordered oysters, snacks, and drinks while spotting wild and marine life. The cruise is limited to 12 participants and available in English and Afrikaans.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this sunset cruise provides a relaxing and memorable experience. Based on 130 reviews, customers have highly rated the attentive guides, comfortable boats, and stunning sunsets.
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Knysnas #1 Private Sunset Cruise, Optional Oysters & Bubbly
Set out on a captivating private sunset cruise aboard the lagoon cruiser Bella Vita, showcasing Knysna’s natural splendor.
This 1.5-hour experience offers stunning vistas of the lagoon and Outeniqua Mountains. Witness the sky turn pink as the sun dips below the horizon.
Customize your cruise with optional pre-ordered snacks, drinks, and oysters. Swim in the turquoise waters and explore natural coves, or simply relax and take in the scenic beauty.
Priced at $83.05 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a unique outing.
Led by knowledgeable guides in Afrikaans and English, the cruise isn’t wheelchair-accessible.
Read our full review: Knysnas #1 Private Sunset Cruise, Optional Oysters & Bubbly Review
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Knysna: #1 Private Scenic Cruise Aboard a Luxury Catamaran
For those seeking a more luxurious and personalized cruise experience in Knysna, the #1 Private Scenic Cruise Aboard a Luxury Catamaran offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Priced from $276.85 per person, this 2-hour private cruise aboard the LaraBella catamaran allows up to 12 guests to explore Knysna Lagoon, the iconic Knysna Heads, and the Indian Ocean.
Highlights include spotting dolphins and seals, as well as the option to anchor at Featherbed for swimming or snorkeling.
The vessel is equipped with premium amenities like trampolines, outdoor shower, braai, and ensuite cabins, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Customization is also available, including live music, private chef, and more.
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Knysna Lagoon: Pontoon Sunset Cruise
The Knysna Lagoon: Pontoon Sunset Cruise offers a leisurely 1.5-hour journey around the scenic waterways, beginning at the Turbine Water Club.
Priced at $49.83 per person, this small-group cruise accommodates up to 10 participants and is led by a live tour guide with an audio guide in English.
Guests can expect to see diverse birdlife and marine life while cruising past Thesen Island canals.
The cruise includes a snack platter and complimentary glass of wine per couple. Guests are free to bring their own drinks and snacks.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5, this cruise provides a relaxing way to experience the beauty of the Knysna Lagoon.
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Knysna: Luxury Sunset Cruise With Captains Barbeque
Guests seeking a luxurious way to experience the breathtaking sunset over the Knysna Lagoon can opt for the 2.5-hour Luxury Sunset Cruise aboard a 55-foot catamaran.
This cruise is likely to sell out, so early booking is advised. For Kč 2,076 per person, guests can enjoy panoramic views, spot marine life, and have the opportunity to catch fish.
The cruise includes a complimentary glass of bubbly, snacks, and an optional barbecue. With a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, guests can expect outstanding hospitality from the experienced crew, who provide live tour guidance in Afrikaans and English.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes this an appealing option for all ages.
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Knysna Lagoon Educational Oyster & White Wine Tasting Cruise
Travelers looking to enjoy Knysna’s rich oyster culture can embark on the Knysna Lagoon Educational Oyster & White Wine Tasting Cruise.
Priced from $41.53 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour includes a boat cruise, oyster tasting paired with white wine, and scenic views of the Knysna Heads and lagoon.
The experience focuses on the history and food culture surrounding oysters. Guests can expect a knowledgeable guide, complimentary half-dozen fresh oysters, and the opportunity to purchase additional drinks.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 53 reviews, this cruise is a popular way to discover Knysna’s natural beauty and culinary delights.
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Knysna: 75-Minute Lagoon Boat Cruise
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Knysna’s natural wonders, the 75-Minute Lagoon Boat Cruise offers an immersive experience. Priced from $27.68 per person, this guided tour takes travelers on a scenic journey around the Knysna Lagoon and Knysna Heads.
Along the way, guests will gain insight into the area’s history, heritage, and culture while enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of the coastline. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise presents a hassle-free opportunity to discover Knysna’s natural beauty.
Based on 279 reviews, the tour boasts an impressive 4.5/5 rating, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and friendly service.
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From Thesen Island: Knysna Lagoon Luxury Cruise
A luxury cruise on Knysna Lagoon awaits aboard the BellaVita lounge cruiser, departing from Thesen Island.
The 100-minute experience offers live tours in English and Afrikaans. Cruise against the backdrop of the Outeniqua mountains and observe local wildlife like herons and fish eagles.
Relax with friends and family, bring your own music, and optionally enjoy oysters and champagne.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the cruise provides stunning views of the lagoon’s tall cliffs.
Priced from $110.74 per person, the cruise can be reserved now with a pay later option.
Prepare by bringing a camera, warm clothing, and sun protection, but leave shoes and smoking behind.
Read our full review: From Thesen Island: Knysna Lagoon Luxury Cruise Review
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Knysna: 1.5-Hour Sailing Experience
This 1.5-hour sailing experience in Knysna Estuary allows visitors to cruise through the iconic waterways and past the rugged headlands of the Garden Route coastline.
Priced from $78 per person, the tour offers a live guide in English and Afrikaans, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Onboard, guests can enjoy a full-service cash bar, toilet facilities, and life jackets.
Though smoking and shoes aren’t allowed, socks are recommended in winter.
With a minimum of 4 guests required, this experience has received excellent reviews from travelers, praising the beautiful scenery and friendly staff.
Weather permitting, the tour may even venture into the Indian Ocean for expansive views.
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Knysna Sunset Sailing Cruise With Light Dinner and Wine
Visitors can embark on a luxurious 2.5-hour sunset sailing cruise through the Knysna Estuary and iconic Knysna Heads.
The cruise offers scenic views of the Garden Route coastline and abundant marine and bird life. Onboard dining includes a sunset platter of savory snacks, cheeses, and seasonal fruits, paired with two glasses of South African Cap Classique.
The activity is limited to 12 passengers, with a minimum of 4 required to run the trip. Participants should bring a jacket, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen, and are advised that the trip is subject to weather and sea conditions.
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Recap
Knysna offers a variety of captivating cruises and boat tours. From luxury catamarans to sunset sailing experiences, visitors can explore the stunning Knysna Lagoon and Heads. Whether seeking a whale watching adventure, a leisurely cruise, or a romantic sunset sail, Knysna’s diverse boat tour options cater to all interests and preferences. These excursions provide an exceptional way to take in the natural beauty and unique charm of this picturesque South African destination.