The Best Houseboats in the Western Cape

No crowds, no queues. Just you, a slow-going boat – and the expanse of the ocean all to yourself. If this sounds like heaven, why not book one of these beauties for Easter, and float away from it all? Whether your preference (and budget) is a rustic wooden boathouse or a luxury yacht, there’s something for everyone in our list below. Welcome to paradise…

SIENA (Oceania 34 Sail Yacht)

This sleek, elegant yacht is docked in the vibrant harbourside heart of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, and offers wonderful views of Table Mountain and the Cape Wheel. With the V&A a stone’s throw away, the boat is ideally located close to shops, restaurants, and other local attractions. Inside, Siena is snug and lovely, with three bedrooms.
Sleeps six (may not be suitable for children under 12)
Amenities kettle (although you can’t cook on the yacht); washing machine and dryer; first-aid kit; laptop-friendly workspace;  three beds and a bathroom.
Nearby the V&A Waterfront, with its restaurants, the Cape Wheeland other nearby city attractions.
Cost R1 502 per night
Location V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Baby Blue Too

www.gravity.co.za

This adorable houseboat is modelled after a Norwegian lifeboat hull – but instead of navigating deep waters, you will have the pleasure of experiencing life on the tranquil, endlessly beautiful Langebaan Lagoon, with its dreamy pristine waters, and nearby white-sand beaches that tantalise year-round.
If you have a skipper’s licence, you’re permitted to adventure around the lagoon on your own. If not (for an additional fee), your hosts will happily deliver you to Kraalbaai for your overnight stay. An inflatable paddle boat and sturdy, flat roof is perfect for sunbathing or reading, before heading inside for a peaceful night’s sleep in the heart of a glorious, wind-sheltered West Coast bay.
If boarding at Kraalbaai, park your car there – but if you’re collecting it from Langebaan, you can leave your car at the Baby Blue Beach Cottage (directions will be provided) and remember, your hosts are only a call away!
Sleeps three (although family-friendly, it may not be safe/suitable for children under two years)
Amenities breakfast; first-aid kit; basic essentials; a long bench that converts into a single berth; double bed; flushing toilet and hand basin; integrated cooler box space; sink and two-plate gas stove; outboard engine and steering console (for seating additional guests).
Nearby flower-spotting (if you visit during flower season), whale-watching, and maybe even discovering a secret beach or two.
Cost R2 505 per night
R120 (additional mooring fee of R120)
R700 (delivery fee, if you don’t have a skipper’s licence)
Minimum stay for Fridays and Saturdays is two nights.
Location Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park, West Coast

Larus Houseboat

This quirky, wood-clapped houseboat is the perfect place to traverse the lagoon and experience the beauty of Kraalbaai’s calm waters and beach. Larus offers a spacious open deck – wonderfully and usefully complemented by a large floating jetty, with its own braai facility.
During the day, Larus can also be booked for private functions, such as weddings and corporate events for up to 12 people.
Sleeps eight (and can comfortably accommodate 12 people during the day)
Amenities open-plan kitchen and dining area; braai facility (jetty); gas stove; fridge; queen-sized bed (main cabin); bunk bed (second cabin); floor mattresses (third cabin, suitable for two adults or 2 to 4 children); two divan beds (kitchen/lounge area) and bathroom with shower, toilet and hot water.
Nearby whale-watching or flower-spotting (if the season is right), exploring the West Coast National Park or visiting popular towns, such as Paternoster, and nearby Langebaan.
Cost R2 600 per night (minimum stay: two nights over weekends)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Location Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park, West Coast

Matrix for Charters

Airbnb

Make lifelong memories as you sail to Clifton, around Robben Island, the Dassen Island, Hout Bay, Saldanha Bay or Mykonos depending on your preference onboard this dinky catamaran, with its polished wooden furnishings and smart interiors. Take your meals at one of the Waterfront restaurants, or eat onboard (meals must be pre-arranged). It’s family friendly, so bring the kids.
Sleeps eight (two king-size beds and two queen-size beds.)
Amenities en-suite bathrooms; kitchen with oven, stove and dining area; air conditioning and heating.
Nearby some of Cape Town’s hottest eateries and sundowner spots; the Waterfront’s Food Market; as well as the best seafood restaurants in the city.
Cost R15 547 per night
Location Marina, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Knysna Houseboat Myrtle

Airbnb

Spend several lazy days floating around the Knysna Lagoon in the comfort of this wooden cottage. Watch the sunset and then the sunrise, and wake up invigorated and rejuvenated to wraparound views of the lagoon, the quays and the Knysna Heads.
Houseboat Myrtle is one of the original houseboats in the area and with full facilities at hand, it can easily be enjoyed with family and friends. Plus, it’s pets so bring your seafaring pooches and cats.
Sleeps four (two bedrooms with double beds)
Amenities two decks; bathroom with shower; open-plan kitchen-lounge-dining area with a stove and oven; indoor fireplace.
Nearby A two-minute dinghy ride takes you to the Knysna Waterfront, where you’ll find everything you need. There’s an overnight hike a short drive away, and this is also great whale-watching territory.
Cost R1 248 per night
Location Knysna Lagoon, Waterfront Drive, Knysna

Nirvana Houseboat

In the middle of the Langebaan Lagoon sits this two-storey houseboat and its floating jetty. Each level can be rented as a unit on its own, or the entire place can be booked. Perfect for family holidays, getaways with friends, or any special occasion under the sun, this fully equipped houseboat is a slice of paradise on the peaceful shores of Kraalbaai.
Sleeps 22 (14 on the lower deck and eight on the upper deck. There are seven single beds, a double bed, two bunk beds and two single divans.)
Amenities fully functioning kitchen with gas stove, oven, fridge and freezer on both levels;  braai facilities; four bathrooms (each with a shower and basin); fireplace; fire extinguishers and a first-aid kit.
Nearby The West Coast National Park is teeming with secret beaches. There are also some wonderful hikes to be explored, and flower-spotting and whale-watching to be done.
Cost R12 700 per night (minimum stay: two nights over weekends)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Location Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park, West Coast

Princess Emma

Staying the night at the V&A Waterfront is enough to make anyone feel like they’re living the high life. Especially if you swap hotel rooms for the smooth rose- and cherry-wood cabins of this luxury yacht… On Princess Emma guests get to sail the seas how we imagine James Bond would.
Cruise around the Mother City’s Atlantic Seaboard, dive off the swimming deck, and enjoy the cool blue water before delighting in an alfresco meal for eight on the outside deck. Then spend the night being lulled to sleep by the gentle rocking of the yacht.
Sleeps eight (two king-size beds and two twin beds)
Amenities four cabins with ensuite bathrooms; spacious lounge; kitchen; air conditioning.
Good to know Your first night onboard this luxury vessel includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, thereafter only breakfast is included (but additional catering can be arranged).  
Nearby Our favourite Saturday market, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market, happens in the Granger Bay section of the Waterfront, and offers delicious street food and fresh produce. Take a page out of Bond’s book and spend the afternoon driving around the bends of Chapman’s Peak in a vintage sports car.
Cost From R75 000 for one night (excludes fuel)
Enquire Now
Location Marina, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Happy Ours

www.centurycityaccommodation.co.za

Enjoy a luxurious two-day cruise on your own private houseboat, exploring the Atlantic Seaboard from your base at the Table Bay Harbour. The first day includes a trip to Camps Bay, while the second will take you around Robben Island. Both trips include brunch and a late lunch, with locally sourced wines, malts and spirits provided. Come nightfall, you’ll return to the V&A Waterfront, where you can gaze at the twinkling lights of the city as you fall asleep to the sounds of the sea.
Sleeps four (two beds)
Amenities wireless internet; heating; air conditioning; laptop-friendly workplace; DStv; kitchenette equipped with microwave and fridge. The cabin stretches the full width of the yacht, allowing plenty of room to relax and entertain guests.
Nearby Being moored at one of the Cape’s major tourist attractions has its advantages. You can enjoy the nightlife at the V&A Waterfront, and perhaps have a drink at the Bascule Whisky Bar before returning to the ocean.
Cost R9 001 per night
Location 19 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront

Knysna Houseboats

Chris Ruprecht

The tranquil Knysna Lagoon stretches out before you, offering an escape from the landlubber’s life. The Knysna Heads, visible in the distance, were once a fearsome sight for British sailors, who deemed this the most dangerous harbour entrance in the world. But it doesn’t seem all that bad when you’re relaxing on the deck of your own houseboat.
Sleeps five (two double beds, bench seat that doubles as a child’s bed)
Amenities braai facilities; compact bathroom with hot shower; dining area.
Nearby Along with the freedom to roam the Knysna Lagoon, you’ll have easy access to the Knysna Waterfront, where you can stock up on supplies, or dine at one of the restaurants. The lagoon itself is populated by a variety of bird life, and its serene waters are perfect for swimming and fishing.
Cost R1 650 – R3 500 per night depending on season (two adults); R180 per additional person

Location 34 Long Street, First floor, Thesen Islands, Knysna
Make a reservation

Serenity House Boat

This luxurious houseboat is situated on Kraalbaai’s crystal-clear waters in the West Coast National Park – about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. The large lounge area opens onto a deck, where lounging is obligatory. With gorgeous views of the lagoon and beach, it’s the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, family vacation or relaxing retreat. The boat is self-catering, however catering can be organised on request.
Sleeps six– two double bedrooms and a sleeper couch in the lounge.
Amenities fully equipped kitchen with gas oven, microwave and fridge. Dining area and braai on the deck. Open-plan lounge with a sleeper couch. One bathroom with a double shower, basin and toilet.
Nearby whale-watching and flower-spotting (in season), exploring the West Coast National Park or visiting popular towns, such as Paternoster, and nearby Langebaan.
Cost  R3 200 per night (minimum stay: two nights over weekends)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Location Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park, West Coast

My Kiara

Travelground

This is nothing less than a five-star luxury hotel…that happens to be floating on water. My Kiara offers guests the chance to explore the Atlantic Seaboard, and the pristine beaches of the West Coast, while residing in lavish surrounds. An experienced crew and captain are present to guide you on your journey across the wondrous Cape coastline, while the on-board gourmet galley and cocktail bar ensure you have culinary offerings on-hand to enhance the experience.
Sleeps eight (four en-suite bedrooms)
Amenities en-suite bathrooms showers, air conditioning, wi-fi, DStv and DVD players; boardroom; full laundry service; and a parking bay reserved for guests.
Nearby The alfresco braai area might tempt you to remain onboard for the duration of your stay. But should you wish to spend some time ashore, the V&A Waterfront – and its many restaurants and attractions – lies right at your doorstep.
Good to know The accommodation is child-friendly.
Cost R12 000 per night
Contact 082 480 6234, info@mykiara.com
Location North Wharf, V&A Waterfront

Breede River Houseboat

Malagas Hotel

No discussion of water-bound adventures would be complete without mentioning the Cape’s great river. Houseboat Hire, situated at Malagas on the shores of the Breede River, offers a selection of sturdy vessels for explorers and holidaymakers to spend the night on the water. The boats are compact and easy to operate, and while facilities are rudimentary, the chance to immerse oneself in the sights and sounds of the river will be luxury enough for most.The river’s flourishing ecosystem is populated by a variety of wildlife, including over 170 bird species.
Sleeps four (one bedroom with a double bed, and a single bunk bed for a child. The main cabin has a fold-out double bed)
Amenities kitchen with fridge, gas stove and oven; hot-water shower and wash basin; ladder (for easy access to the rooftop deck, which is ideal for fishing and sunbathing).
Nearby Whenever you feel like returning to land, you can spend some time at the Malagas Hotel, an idyllic countryside getaway with a restaurant, pub and children’s play area.
Cost R2 400 – R6 000 (depending on season and duration of boat hire)
Contact 028 542 1049, info@malagashotel.com
Location Main Road, Malagas, Swellendam

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