Things to Do in Knysna

Enjoy a fun, family friendly guided boat cruise around the stunning Knysna Lagoon and Knysna Heads. Relax on board the boat, soak up the glorious South African sunshine, and admire breathtaking views as you glide along the glistening waters of Knysna.

A trip to the Garden Route is not complete without a tour of the Knysna Lagoon with Ocean Sailing Charters. Get up close to the beautiful scenery around the lagoon equipped with a glass of ice cold bubbly, this is the best way to see one of the best parts that Knysna has to offer. The Knysna Lagoon and Knysna Heads are home to an abundance of marine life that can be viewed from our boat.

Sit back and relax on a scenic boat trip around the tranquil Knysna Lagoon. Watch the sky change color as the sun sets, and enjoy your preordered oysters, snacks, and drinks on board.

Drift into the magic of twilight with our unforgettable Sunset Cruise on the serene Knysna Lagoon. As the day gently fades into evening, experience the spectacular natural beauty of Knysna from the best vantage point possible—on the water, aboard our elegant 12-passenger vessel Coquette.

Enjoy a scenic and exhilarating 12-15 kilometer quad ride through the forests of Knysna. Experience the rush of this guided adventure.

This scenic sail on either LaraBella (our flagship premium catamaran) or BellaLuna (our sister yacht that also offers a suberb Sail), is one of the most exciting things to do in Knysna. You can experience the abundant marine and bird life of the Knysna lagoon and ocean from the vantage point of our spacious trampolines, roof viewing deck, pontoon seats, interior bar and saloon, or sun lounges at the back. Our luxury Catamaran's provide beautiful photo opportunities. Let the sun warm your skin and the salt breeze energise your soul while we venture out for a magical sail on the Knysna Lagoon, navigate the famous Knysna Heads and then head out to sea. On occasion being joined by pods of dolphins or a friendly seal is a magnificent experience. On our return into the Knysna Lagoon we will treat you to some light snacks. Once we are anchored at Featherbed Bay there’s ample time for lazing in the sun, supping, and in the warmer months swimming or snorkelling.

End your day with wine and oysters on a relaxing boat cruise. Take in the magnificence of Knysna as the African sun starts to set over the lagoon.

Your sail starts and end at Sirocco on Thesen Island. Sailing out into the beautiful waters of the Knysna lagoon or the Garden Route coastline, while sipping on a glass of ice cold Bubbly. The cruise will give you a close-up experience of the magnificent Knysna Heads and the Knysna estuary and you may encounter sightings of dolphins and whales along the way. An excursion through the Knysna Heads out to the Ocean is weather dependent, however if favourable we will sail out onto the Indian Ocean. On board your cruise you can choose to be as entertained as you wish and try your hand at fishing, dive straight off the boat, on warmer months enjoy swimming in the clear water, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy every moment. We also have SUPS on board which is a huge hit and lots of fun. A cash bar is available on board and snacks or oysters can be pre ordered.

Discover the Knysna Forests riding down massive slopes. Experience the thrill as you carve down winding trails. Keep your eyes peeled for local fauna.

Cruise in ultimate style while you discover all the unique coves and bays on the way to the famous Knysna Heads. We cruise alongside the beautiful turquoise Featherbed Bay where it’s very protected and one can cool down with a swim in summer. Sit back and relax, enjoy the feeling of the sun on your face, and the wind in your hair, while viewing the beautiful town of Knysna framed by the Outeniqua mountains. Our captain will be sure to tell you about all the secret spots in Knysna to explore. Oysters, drinks and snacks are available on pre-order. Remember to bring your camera, hat, sunscreen, binoculars and something warm, as it can get cooler on the water than on land, especially during the late afternoons. Please bring your own beach towel, should you want to swim.

Discover the wild cats of South Africa. Learn about wildlife conservation on a guided one-hour walking tour. Get an up-close look at lions, leopards, cheetahs, the Blue Crane, and other local wildlife.

Our fleet of wooden vessels are unique and allow guests to embrace the ambience and history of Knysna perfectly. Currently we are running Coquette, our 102 year old Mahogany launch and we are very excited to be shortly welcoming two new additions, Elegance, an 89 year old Gaff rigged Ketch and Pamela, a vintage mahogany dauntless cruiser.

Explore the Knysna Estuary with this relaxing pontoon boat cruise. Cruise past stunning scenery, go for a refreshing swim in the water, and discover the Thesen Islands.

Knysna Forests are unforgettable natural and real. This is a unique and true forest experience to explore the Knysna pine and indigenous forests.

Come join a close encounter whale watching, departing daily from Thesen Island. Sail through the Knysna Heads and out to sea in search of Humpback and Southern Right whales.

This is an experience that will chance your life and the way you think. It takes you inside the heart the township to experience the Life of The Amaxhosa. The original Knysna Township Tour was started 26 years ago to benefit the greater community. We support pre schools and your participation is very needed and greatly appreciated. Together we make a change, promote education and provide support for our people in the Townships. Come Walk the streets, chat with the locals, visit the creche, cobbler, hairdresser and butcher with your local guide, see the Sangoma and visit inside a Real RDP house. ● Some venues may not be available on weekends or week ● You are welcome to support the school with supplies, clothes or food donations. Standard Tour No Lunch Tour + Traditional Xhosa lunch / own account and pre book please Adults 12 years + / Children 5 years -11 years / Infant 0 - 4 Years Min 2 adult travellers per trip or 1 traveller paying for 2

Soar through the skies of the Garden Route on a tandem paragliding flight. Take off from George, Mossel Bay, Wilderness, Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, or Sedgefield and enjoy the stunning views below.

Join us for the ultimate sailing experience whilst soaking up the golden hues of the Knysna sunset. This 2.5 hour experience departs from the Knysna waterfront and glides through the Knysna estuary up to the rugged headlands and out to the vast Indian Ocean. Let the natural beauty of Knysna entertain you from the breathtaking coastline to the diverse marine life. Included with this unique experience is an amazing Mediterranean platter and a complimentary glass or two of chilled South African Cap Classique while you watch the sun sink into the horizon.

Venture through the Knysna Heads and beyond for a marine experience of a lifetime. Marvel at the magnificent caves, cliffs, beaches, and vast array of marine life on a Garden Route Coastline cruise.

This is our shortest sailing cruise but you will still thrill at the wind in the sails and the beautiful scenery out through the Knysna Heads and along the spectacular coastline. If you love sailing, this experience offers you a little taste of everything. From the calm waters of the lagoon, through the magnificent Knysna Heads and out to the vast ocean, you and your family can enjoy many different aspects of a day at sea with our highly experienced crew. This rare opportunity to combine lagoon and sea sailing means you can feel the rush of the wind in the sails and perhaps even see dolphins and whales. All our trips are ocean going trips and are weather and sea conditions dependent. Only the skipper of the vessel can make a judgement call on these conditions which are determined on the day of the charter. Conditions are influenced by tide, wind direction & speed and sea swell, therefore going out through the Knysna Heads is never guaranteed.

Admire the spectacular Knysna scenery and sunset on board a relaxing sunset sailing cruise. Enjoy a tasty array of cheeses, seasonal fruits, and savory snacks paired with chilled sparkling wine.

Discover the Garden Route's best adventure with Ocean Sailing Charters. Explore and discover the magnificent natural beauty of Knysna on the most luxurious and spacious Catamaran in Knysna. Venture out for a magical sail on the Knysna Lagoon while you laze in the sun with an ice-cold beverage, navigate the famous Knysna Heads and then head out to sea to explore the spectacular marine and bird life of the Indian Ocean. Being joined by pods of dolphins, or a friendly seal, is an experience which you’ll remember long after the journey has ended. Our impressive 55ft LaraBella is equipped with a wine cooler, a coffee machine, bar, big lounge saloon area, beautiful cabins and several fridges. Our friendly crew will make you feel right at home. Our Sunset Braai cruise include a complimentary 'Braai/BBQ' with a glass of bubbly.

Celebrate a special occasion aboard a luxury cruiser as you sail around Knysna Lagoon. Marvel at the beautiful surroundings, birds and other wildlife as you relax with your family or friends.

A trip to Knysna is not complete without a cruise on the pristine Knysna Lagoon, home to the world famous Knysna Heads and many species of bird and marine life. Join us onboard the "Oyster Boat" for a memorable, leisurely 75 minute long cruise to the famous Knysna Heads and back we also pass through the Featherbed Bay which offers calm turquoise waters. Sit back and relax, enjoy the feeling of our African sun on your face, the wind in your hair, while viewing Knysna from a unique vantage. Enjoy hearing all about one of SA's favourite coastal towns, Knysna, from a local, homegrown perspective!

Indulge the senses as you cruise the Knysna Lagoon to the iconic Heads and surrounds. Marvel at the coastline and immerse yourself in the taste and history of our treasured oysters paired with white wine.

This spectacular cruise takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of our rugged and beautiful coastline. Ocean Odyssey’s Heads adventure serves to highlight both the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment.  We show you the expansive estuary and then head into the Knysna Heads where you are able to see the impressive sandstone cliffs, the ancient caves and outcrops of this famous landmark.

Serendipity, our European sloep boat is your gateway to an unforgettable champagne cruiser experience. Glide along the lagoon’s tranquil water, soak in the sun and celebrate life’s special occasions

Observing whales in their natural environment leaves a feel-good mark on the soul- Knysna the best places to do this! As Knysna’s only permitted close encounter operator, our team is passionate about showcasing our prolific marine life and our incredibly picturesque & scenic coastline. Every year, both the Southern Right and the Humpback whales leave their icy feeding grounds off Antarctica and migrate to mate and calve in the warmer waters of our Southern African coastline. Knysna is one of the best whale watching destinations in the country. Knysna is blessed with year-round sightings - large pods of Dolphins and regular sightings of Brydes whales. From June through to November/December Knysna’s you can sight our incredible migrating whales, as our waters teem with Southern right and humpback whales and they skirt our coastline while making their way to the tropics.

Venture out for a magical sail in Knysna on a luxury catamaran. Experience the lagoon and the infamous Knysna Heads over a drink and complimentary Captain's barbeque on board.

We offer scenic a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon aboard a vintage European Sloep boat. We embark at Thesen Island in Knysna for round trips to the Knysna Heads. Food and drinks are available from the Mane by the Sea restaurant before departure.

Paddle your way through the serene Knysna Lagoon, feeling the tranquillity of the water beneath you.Embark on a journey of serenity and exploration as you paddle your way through the tranquil Lagoon.

Booking a Knysna Sunset Cruise is a memorable way to end off a day in Knysna. Fresh air, delicious oysters and many perfect photographic opportunities all ensure that our guests leave the tour with lasting memories of Knysna.

Explore Knysna from a different perspective. Hire a kayak and head off in which ever direction you choose!

A unique and true forest experience. Enjoy an exhilarating downhill on the Monster Mountain Scooter, descent through indigenous forest, sweepy bends and single track. A scenic minibus ride takes you into the heart of the forest to the best hills to start your descent in the Garden Route National Park. All of this while on the lookout for our local wild life, the majestic Knysna Loerie, the shy bushbuck and wild boar. Scooters are non motorized making this eco friendly. These Swiss designed scooters are used in the Alps during the summer season on the ski slopes when the snow is gone. All trips are guided by professional qualified guides. Children must be 9 years and older to ride on their own/solo. R600 Solo riders. R300 Passengers.

Embark on a fully-guided tour with a qualified guide/skipper around the Knysna Lagoon. Travel to the infamous Knysna Heads and marvel at lots of birdlife and marine life on the way.

If you enjoy sailing, this experience, followed by a delicious lunch, is the perfect way to bring a little luxury into your Knysna adventure. This activity also provides an ideal way to view the spectacular scenery and marine life of the world-renowned Garden Route coastline. The route takes you over the Knysna lagoon, through the impressive Knysna Heads and out into the true freedom of the open ocean.  After a magnificent sail, we return to the calmer waters of the Knysna Estuary and serve a delicious feast of Mediterranean style cuisine. All our trips are ocean-going trips and are weather and sea conditions dependent. Only the skipper of the vessel can make a judgment call on these conditions which are determined on the day of the charter. Conditions are influenced by tide, wind direction & speed, and sea swell, therefore going out through the Knysna Heads is never guaranteed.

Sail around a lagoon aboard a 104-year-old yacht on a cruise in Knysna. Marvel at the spectacular scenery, learn about the wildlife and order optional champagne and fresh oysters.

Enjoy this spectacular 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, that takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of our rugged and beautiful coastline. With your local, professional guide, experience the highlights from the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment. Get a chance to often see marine life in your shared group, with no more than 25 people. Choose from one of three departure times when you book.

Explore the Beauty of Knysna on a bike. Knysna and its pristine forests, mountains and coastal routes make it an unforgettable biking destination.

Our coastal town of Knysna and Oysters go together like champagne and caviar, sea and sky, summer breezes and cold beers ... if you're more than a little intrigued by oysters, then join us for the ultimate oyster experience on the spectacular Knysna Lagoon. Learn all there is to know about one of the world's most loved delicacy, taste the difference between wild and cultivated oysters, all whilst cruising the lagoon to the Heads and surrounds. Ask questions, take photo's, excite your taste buds - all on board our "Oyster Boat" with a small group of guests. The cruise includes complimentary local white wine and oysters for tasting. Extra oysters are available on pre-order to enjoy on the boat.

Sail through the Knysna Heads on a luxury catamaran. Enjoy a glass of bubbly as you take in the views of the Knysna Lagoon and sail through the iconic Knysna Heads (Weather permitting)

Perfect for first-time and returning visitors, our 1-hour Sightseeing Cruises showcase the stunning sights and sounds of the Knysna Lagoon. Enjoy a return cruise that takes in the dramatic views of the Knysna Heads at the mouth of the lagoon. Don’t forget your camera for amazing photos and videos! Pamela is ideal for leisurely cruises rather than high-speed adventures. The boat’s charm lies in its elegance and the sense of tranquility it offers while gliding through the water. With her bowrider layout, she provides excellent vantage points for capturing stunning photos and videos, making every moment on board Instagram-worthy.

Discover South African wildlife and beauty in some of the country's national parks. Explore some of the top spots while driving along the Garden Route to explore this southeastern coastal paradise.

Explore the waterways of Thesen Island and the Knysna Estuary with the world’s fastest growing watersport, Stand-Up Paddling. Stand-Up Paddling, or SUP for short, is easy, fun and guaranteed to keep you fit whilst enjoying the spectacular scenery of our waterways & lagoon. The calm waters of Thesen Island are ideal for beginners and the many inlets and coves are perfect for the more adventurous or experience paddlers. Eight top quality boards and paddles are available for rent by the hour.

Explore the Knysna Heads and diverse estuary on this 45-minute adventure. Learn more about Knysna and its interesting history of shipwrecks, settlers, and founders. Encounter the vast array of birdlife and odd seal that inhabits the estuary.

Our leisurely Sunset Cruises are ideal for enjoying sundowners while watching spectacular sunsets over the lagoon. It’s a great way to end the day with pre-drinks aboard. Make a booking at one of the nearby restaurants for dinner after the cruise. Pamela is ideal for leisurely cruises rather than high-speed adventures. The boat’s charm lies in its elegance and the sense of tranquility it offers while gliding through the water. With her bowrider layout, she provides excellent vantage points for capturing stunning photos and videos, making every moment on board Instagram-worthy.

Soar like bird over the most scenic area in the Garden Route on a Tandem Paragliding flight. Enjoy the feeling of flying like an eagle with a Professional Instructor .

Experience an intimate journey on the tranquil waters of the Knysna Lagoon with our exclusive Romantic Cruises. Tailored for couples, these private cruises are designed to create unforgettable moments, whether you’re celebrating a proposal, engagement, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply indulging in a romantic escape. Our itinerary takes us from Thesen Islands down the main channel to the Knysna Heads and back.

Come and enjoy a fishing trip on the Knysna Lagoon, The Knysna Lagoon is one of the area's chief tourist attractions and is a popular spot for local fishermen. The gorgeous views are an added bonus.

Designed for couples, our Romantic Cruises are perfect for proposals, engagements, anniversaries, honeymoons, and other special moments. With a maximum of 2 passengers, you’ll enjoy an intimate and memorable experience. Pamela is ideal for leisurely cruises rather than high-speed adventures. The boat’s charm lies in its elegance and the sense of tranquility it offers while gliding through the water. With her bowrider layout, she provides excellent vantage points for capturing stunning photos and videos, making every moment on board Instagram-worthy.