Splish-splash around the city canals at night.
As adventures go, kayaking – at night – on the Waterfront canals may be the most tranquil and unexpectedly fascinating after-dark activity in Cape Town. This brand-new stress-free adventure, based at the V&A’s Battery Park, is suitable for just about anyone – the paddling is easy, there are no waves or rough waters (so it’s feasible even for seasick-prone participants), and you barely register the slight core workout you get as you engage with the sights and sounds that enfold your experience.
What you’ll see on your night kayak
The sunset tours happen when it’s very quiet, so you share the water with very few other craft. The red City Sightseeing boat might putter past, maybe a few solo kayakers, or a contingent of canoe-polo players training. Plus, if you’re lucky, you could even spot a couple of Cape otters that inhabit these waters and are regularly seen.
But really it’s the tranquillity of the voyage, the mellow splish-splash of your oar, and the gentle dimming of sunlight that makes this truly enjoyable. You are suddenly in a different world: drifting under bridges and staring up at the city’s high-rise buildings… at a certain point, Table Mountain pops into view.
As you wend your way through the canals and alongside the jetties, you’re primarily staring directly up at apartment blocks and hotels that line the waterways – it’s a curious insight into a seldom-explored part of the city. The kayaks have been pimped with fairy lights, adding to the romance as the water reflects your shimmering glow.
The hour-long trip stretches between One&Only Cape Town and gets you close to the Westin, adjacent to the CTICC. You also get a view of the harbour with its tall stacks of containers, passing the pump station (responsible for circulating fresh seawater through the canals). All the while, there’s the dull roar of the city and its traffic, seagulls overhead, and pedestrians on the walkways pointing, waving, and wishing they were you.
Good to know You can also book a day tour.
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Night kayaking: useful information
While it’s not a sightseeing tour, your guide (who gives you a quick-and-easy paddling-and-safety briefing before you start) will dish out a few facts about some of the scenes you witness as you go.
You may get splashed by the paddler on the front of your kayak and your bum will get wet, but the odds of capsizing or getting seriously wet are negligible. Nonetheless, there are showers (just opposite the launch jetty) for use after your session – even after a hot day in Cape Town, it can be nippy when you’re this close to the water. Bring a towel and something warm to wear afterwards. Lockers are provided to stash your belongings while you’re on the water
Cost R450
Opening times Daily, 5.30pm, 6.30pm, 7.30pm
Where to find it Battery Park, V&A Waterfront (key in “Kayak Adventures Waterfront” on Google Maps for a precise location)
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