A nautical experience - The best boating spots in SA
Category News
Whether it be the salty sprays of the Indian or Atlantic oceans or the calm, cool waters that laden South Africa's vast dams and rivers, our naturally beautiful country is home to some of the best boating locations in the world.
Let's face it, there's no experience quite like the wind at your back as your hull bounces and cuts through the hitting waters. The thrill and freedom you experience are unmatched.
As such, boating has a significant following throughout the country, spurred by various locations to set sail. Today, we look at some of the most iconic spots to launch your next nautical adventure.
Knysna
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Knysna is a tiny slice of paradise located within the Garden Route of the Western Cape and is home to some of South Africa's best-launching locations. The Water Front at the Knysna Quays is a popular destination to set sail from and offers visitors many convenient locations to explore. Do sunsets along the famous Knysna Lagoon turn your dial? Or perhaps you're more partial to visiting Thesen Island? From this ideal location, your options for adventure are limitless.
Be sure to check in with the Knysna Yacht Club or Liesiure Isle Boat Club to get the latest information from experienced seafarers.
Plettenberg Bay
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Plettenberg Bay's tranquil yet illustrious seaside town is on the edge of the Garden Route, located only 30 km east of Knysna. Known for its exemplary holiday experience, sweeping gold beaches, immaculate forests surrounding the town, and marvellous wine estates, Plett is simply a must-stay for any boating enthusiast.
Launching from the river or seaside is possible, depending on your route. But if you're one for taking in the town's mesmerising facade, we recommend a trip alongside the lagoon, which connects the Keuerboom river to the ocean. The Plettenberg Bay Angler's Club is open to visitors and enthusiasts alike, so be sure to pop in and say hello.
Cape Town
Image Source: Dailymaverick.co.za
Cape Town is gorgeous, but if you're looking for a unique perspective of the city's immaculate beachfront, nothing quite beats the open sea. Starting from Cape Point and VA Waterfront, this incredible route stretches across False Bay, and one can launch their cruise from one of three natural harbours.
Once you set sail, the possibilities for sightseeing are endless. Explore the route from Hout Bay to Duiker Island and get up close and personal with fur seals. Or, launch from Simon's Town and take a slow cruise through the sea while looking out for whales, sharks, and more seals! Regardless of your taste, Cape Town's nautical experience caters to all flavours.
Stop by the Cape Town Boat and Ski Club for insider tips.
Kenton-On-Sea
Image Source: Kenton.co.za
Carved out between the Kariega and Boesmans rivers is the quaint yet increasingly popular seaside town of Kenton-On-Sea. It's a unique setting, combing two estuaries and the ocean, making it one of the most prominent places to explore by water. The Kenton Marina, situated on the Boesman river, has 100 moorings which are let on both a permanent and temporary basis to boat owners from far and wide.
It's a convenient location for boating enthusiasts to take in from almost every angle as you cruise from river to ocean and back around the river bend. For more information, visit the Kenton-On-Sea Marina.
The Vaal Dam
Image Source: Mapcarta.com
Now for a little inland detour. The Vaal Dam stretches across the provinces of Gauteng and the Freestate and meanders in a spider-like fashion in all directions. Boating here takes a more relaxed approach as fishing, sailing, and lake-side sundowners take preference. The Vaal's primary attraction is the Grooteiland (Big Island) just east of the dam wall. Take a leisurely cruise across the calm waters and explore the beauty of this naturally formed island. Depending on the day, Island visits can be limited.
The other attraction in the area for water sports enthusiasts is the Vaal River. The section known as the Upper Vaal features 57km of navigable waterways. Skiing, wakeboarding, fishing and cruising are the order of the day. This section of the river is open to rafting year-round and homes many watercraft of varying sizes, from small outboards to even the occasional motor yacht. The area also features many accommodations, many offering riverfront views and jetties. So pack your cooler bag and get out on the water!
Stop by the Loch Vaal Club to learn some of the area's best-kept secrets!
Read our previous article here: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/2023-decor-trends-to-keep-or-toss/
Contact Hamilton's Property Portfolio if you want to buy or sell property near you.
Johannesburg (Head Office): 011 463 0155
Cape Town: 021 418-0328
Garden Route: 044 050 3295
Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787
Winelands: 021 863 0551
Or email reception@hamiltons.co.za
Hamilton's Property Portfolio holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.
Author: Bryce Anderson