Inland, the beautiful rivers, dams and lakes are the perfect spot for a peaceful boat cruise or exciting watersports.
Whether you're launching a small speed boat for a day of fun with the family or a larger fishing boat directly from the beach–, the options are endless.
Here are the top boating destinations SA has to offer.
KwaZulu Natal
Everyone knows Durban has the best food, culture, and vibrant beaches. But if you want a fresh perspective, it’s time to launch your boat or Jet Ski into the Indian Ocean.
The Indian Ocean is a boating haven. During low tide, the subtropical waters have calm waves. But– some waves can make for an even more exciting launch!
Popular launching sites include the Durban Ski Boat launch site and Granny's Pool. Locals will also tell you that Granny's Pool gives you access to some of the better fishing spots close to this beautiful city.
There are also tractor-tow options available for boaters. But Durban is notoriously busy, especially during the summer months. Launching your own vessel instead of waiting for a tow lets you skip the long queues. Just make sure you have a local with you to avoid any possible issues.
Point Yacht Club, Durban Ski Boat Club, Royal Natal Yacht Club
You have to fill in the register before and after launch.
You can also launch using the push pole method at this location.
Boats can access the beach via a tunnel under the promenade.
KwaZulu Natal
If you like to pair your boating with fishing, Cape Vidal is the ideal place to visit. It’s only 32 km north of St. Lucia. The nature reserve's beaches and rock pools wrap around Isimangaliso Wetland Park.
The bay has a launch site for deep-sea boats and ski boats. Kayaks are welcome, but jetskis are only for fishing.
Cape Vidal is best for experienced boaters. During low tide, the beach sand is very loose and slippery. The bay is also shallow with dangerous rocks hiding beneath. If it’s your first time, watch regulars to see their technique when they launch and collect their boats.
Do you want to watch the Humpback whales during your trip? Visit during the winter months when they migrate to Mozambique. Summer boaters can watch Leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles instead.
Ski Boat Club St. Lucia, Cape Vidal Ski-Boat Club,
Cape Vidal is in a protected area, check the rules for boating and fishing before your trip.
Returning during high tide is not advised, the shore dump can make it difficult to retrieve your boat.
The bay's many rocks aren’t always visible. Always check before you offload your boat.
Avoid heavy braking when dropping your boat, many vessels get stuck in the fine sand.
Western Cape
Plettenberg Bay is a charming seaside town on the garden route. It features a breathtaking forest and pristine beaches. The list of boating activities in Plett is endless. Visitors can bring boats, kayaks, paddle boards and jet skis.
The local Plettenberg Bay Angler's Club is the biggest fishing club in the Southern Cape. It’s also one of the only remaining angling clubs in South Africa with beach launches.
Plett is well-equipped for safe mooring and launching. Boaters can launch along the river, or seaside. You can also cruise along the lagoon connecting the Keurboom River to the ocean.
It’s also a great place to go out with the family, with so many sea animals making a visit to the bay. Of course, the whales stand out. Plettenberg Bay is a famous WCA Whale Heritage Site.
For inshore and deep-sea fishing, head to Robberg Peninsula, a nearby nature reserve.
Ski Boat Club Plettenberg Bay, Plettenberg Bay Angling Club
Plett prioritises the conservation of cetaceans (aqautic mammals that include whales and dolphins) and their natural habits. Read up on laws and guidelines before launching.
Tip: If you want to enjoy really fresh seafood, head to Enrico’s at Keurbooms Beach. The owner launches daily to bring back the catch of the day.
Mpumalanga / Gauteng / North West / Free State
The popular Vaal River is SA’s second largest, stretching 120 kilometres. It's located within four provinces: Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North West and the Free State.
Boaters can charter or launch a boat to explore 55 kilometres of inland waters. The Vaal Dam is great for vessels of all sizes. Smaller rafts, outboards and motor yachts are welcome. The dam's atmosphere is one of relaxation and calm boating.
The Vaal has many places to launch at an affordable price. Anglers can launch at Deneysville, Abrahamsrust, and Manten Marina. The Vaal Marina Resort has a private slipway.
Vaal River Boating Club, Riverside Beach Club
The Vaal Rivers spreads across four provinces. Choose a launching site that’s closest to your location.
Not all launching sites are safe. Select a site with security or one that’s by a resort.
Western Cape
Knysna is one of the most-visited sailing destinations in the country. The gorgeous lagoon and estuary features over 200 species to admire.
It’s a town on the water, so sailing is a deep part of Knysna’s culture and history. Boats have been coming in and out of the lagoon since the 1800s. The town boasts prestigious yacht clubs and a growing sailing community.
There are many sites to launch a boat around the lagoon. Popular ones to try are Crabs Creek, Lake Brenton, and The Point.
On Leisure Island, a small boat harbour is available. Thesen Island visitors can moor their boats outside their home for added convenience.
There are many slipways and access points for private boats in the town and surrounding islands.
Knysna Yacht Club, Leisure Isle Boat Club
Knysna's channels and banks are most visible at low tide.
Non-seagoing boats are not allowed to sail past Fountain Point. This area is marked by a white beacon.
Boaters need to know that the channel is only about 2 km wide.
Aside from skipper certificates, all boats must display a valid SANPARKS sticker.
Eastern Cape
Port St Johns is a premium boasting destination in Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast. Take a yacht from the gorgeous estuary into the Mzimvubu River. Here boaters can explore the marine life and the rugged waves of the coastline.
The village is a licensed boat launching site. It's best for anglers and experienced boaters.
Boaters should go during the summer months. But the best time for a fishing trip is between June and August when the water clears. This is just in time for the yearly sardine run.
The sardines don’t migrate alone. You can also spot sharks, dolphins, whales and bird species around this time.
Take note, Port St Johns is no longer a port but a small village.
Boats can only launch from the river. The area can be rocky, and you may need to launch at high tide.
The weather around Transkei is unpredictable. Watch the water for a few hours before launching.
The port is a popular fishing destination. If you prefer to stick to boating, visit during quieter warmer months.
The best time for boating in South Africa is the summer months between November and April. This is when seas are calm, perfect for an exciting and safe boating adventure.
For anglers, the best times for fishing are from late June to August. In many areas, fish are scarce before then.
Planning your trip will also depend on what type of boater you are. Do you prefer challenging rough seas or tranquil waters? Are there any aquatic animals you want to see? Visit local websites to learn about any migration patterns before you go.
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