Harbour & Canal Cruises Special Offer
January 2021
A two-for-one special is the best, right? Nothing better than purchasing one item and getting another item for free. City Sightseeing is so excited to announce the launch of our City Sightseeing Harbour and Canal Cruise special.
We are offering this daily, between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM (weather dependent), and tickets must be purchased from our team at the City Sightseeing ticket office adjacent to the Two Oceans Aquarium. The price for either the Harbour or the Canal Cruise is R60 per adult and R30 per child. Bring along a friend, pay for one ticket, and you will receive another ticket free of charge. Alternatively, if you want to experience both cruises, you will only pay for one.
The Harbour Cruise, which is approximately 25 minutes, and departs every 20 minutes, offers a fantastic historical overview of the oldest working harbour in South Africa. The cruise includes oversight of the SAS Somerset, the only remaining boom defence vessel in the world, the Bascule Bridge, which is the largest synchro-lift in the Southern Hemisphere, and other intriguing attractions of the harbour. You will also pass the historic building which was the original Port Captain’s Office, built in 1882, and has been beautifully restored to resemble its original design.
Harbour Cruise with Seals Playing in the water
Be sure to have your camera at the ready as the Cape Fur Seals are seen on most cruises, either frolicking in the waves or sunbathing on the decks. For the children, there is a fun, interactive kids' channel onboard.
The Canal Cruise will provide insight into what is known as the ‘suitcase of money', as you cruise between the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town Convention centre. Here you will pass the multi-million Rand Marina Housing development. This apartment-style living development was completed in 2009, includes 515 residential units across 17 buildings, with over 200 boat moorings. Be sure to be on the lookout for many luxury motor yachts.
Cruising passed the Marine Housing Development
The meeting points for these cruises are either just behind the One & Only Hotel at the Waterfront or the Westin Hotel, next to the Convention Centre. This cruise is offered on a hop-on/hop-off basis and is valid for the full day. You can also see this as a great and efficient water taxi between the CBD and the Waterfront. The additional stops are the Harbour Bridge, AC Marriott, the City Lodge Hotel just outside the Waterfront entrance and Battery Park.
We have strict COVID protocols in place. Please ensure you wear your mask at all times. Our boats are open-sided and offer a great flow of fresh air. All social distancing is in place on board, and we ensure seat spacing is in place for guests not travelling together. All boats are sanitised and wiped down regularly throughout the day, and all our staff have sanitiser at their disposal for your use.
Bring a scene of adventure, suncream, and enjoy a day on board our cruises. If you would like to watch a video to whet your appetite, click to view the video of the Harbour Cruise here, view the video of the Canal Cruise here. No worry about needing sea legs, as the cruises are very gentle, for young and old.
FAQs
What are the two main types of City Sightseeing boat cruises available in Cape Town?
"Harbour Cruise (approx. 30 minutes): This route focuses on the historic V&A Waterfront working harbour. It provides a fascinating, quick tour offering close-up views of iconic maritime structures like the Bascule Bridge and the SAS Somerset boom defence vessel. This is a dedicated sightseeing experience. Canal Cruise (Hop-On/Hop-Off): This route navigates the modern, calm inland waterways connecting the V&A Waterfront to the Foreshore area and the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). This route functions primarily as a flexible water taxi for a full day."
Where can I board the City Sightseeing Canal Cruise?
The Canal Cruise operates on a hop-on/hop-off basis, and your ticket is valid for unlimited use for the full day. It's an excellent water taxi connecting the major destinations of the V&A Waterfront and the CTICC/Convention Centre area.
What is the general policy regarding special offers or discounted bundles for the Harbour and Canal Cruises?
City Sightseeing frequently offers combo deals that bundle both the Harbour and Canal cruises together, or combine them with the popular Hop-On Hop-Off Red Bus tickets for a comprehensive sightseeing experience. Tickets are typically purchased directly from the City Sightseeing ticket office at the V&A Waterfront (usually near the Two Oceans Aquarium) or online through their official website.
What are the major historical landmarks and natural features that guests can expect to see while on the Harbour Cruise?
The Harbour Cruise is known for its views of Cape Town’s proud nautical history and the natural environment. Guests can expect to see: the SAS Somerset, a historic naval vessel, the Bascule Bridge and the Clock Tower, and the resident Cape Fur Seals that often frolic in the harbour basins or sunbathe on the docks.
Are the City Sightseeing boat cruises suitable for families and young children?
Yes, both the Harbour and Canal cruises are considered family-friendly. The boats are generally open-sided, offering comfort and safety in the calm waters. Key features for an enjoyable experience include: audio commentary available in multiple languages, often including a fun, interactive kids' channel to keep younger passengers engaged.
