With the warm weather sweeping across Cape Town, there are plenty of exciting watersports for you to try if going to the beach is a bit intimidating this season.
If you’re looking for adventure without venturing into the ocean, here are some of the best non-ocean water activities in Cape Town:
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Enjoy a scenic stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) experience on Cape Town’s canals. The calm sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Glide gracefully along the canals, soaking in stunning views of the city. Several providers offer introductory lessons and board hire to get you started.
Where to go:
SUP Cape Town: Situated on the canal next to Battery Park near the V&A Waterfront. Experiences start at R300 per person.
Visit: bit.ly/494cT4e
SUP Tyger: Found at Imperial Bank Terraces, Carl Cronje Drive, Bellville. Experiences start at R150 per person.
Visit: coppercollection.co.za/sup-tyger
Surfshack: Located in Simon’s Town. Experiences start at R550 per person.
Visit: surfshack.biz/stand-up-paddle
Intaka Island Kayaking Tour
Located in the heart of Century City, Intaka Island offers a tranquil urban escape perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Paddle through serene canals with a kayak experience hosted by Kayak Adventures. The guided tour around the “man-made” section of the island allows you to uncover fascinating insights about its unique flora and fauna.
Location: 2 Park Ln, Century City,
Price: From R140 per person
Contact: Email info@intaka.co.za or visit www.kayakadventures.capetown
Table Bay Nature Reserve- Rietvlei Section
The Table Bay Nature Reserve-Rietvlei Section is a haven for water sports and recreational activities, offering everything from sailing and water skiing to powerboating, paddling, and canoeing. Bring your own equipment for a memorable adventure at one of Cape Town’s most picturesque freshwater spots.
Location: 26 Sandpiper Cres, Flamingo Vlei
Cost: Entry fees start from R15 for children and senior citizens and R20 for adults.
Contact: Visit bit.ly/3Zle0JB
Pedal Boat at the V&A Waterfront
Pedal boating is a fun-filled activity where you power a boat by pedaling—just like riding a bike, but on water! Enjoy a 30-minute adventure through the canals at the V&A Waterfront, perfect for all ages. With space for 2-6 people per boat, it’s the ideal way to share the fun with friends or family.
Location: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Price: R100 per person; Kids under 4: R50. From 21 Dec 2024 to 5 Jan 2025, the price will be R150 per person and R75 for kids under 4.
Contact: Visit bit.ly/3Onab03
River Tubing in Palmiet River
Soak in the breathtaking views of the towering mountains of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve as you drift down the Palmiet River. This thrilling river tubing experience, located just an hour from Cape Town, is available annually from October to April.
Hosted by Gravity Adventures, this four-hour experience allows you to travel leisurely along the river’s serene pools and exciting channels. As river tubing is physically demanding, a reasonable level of fitness and agility is required. For those seeking an adventure during the colder months, white-water rafting is offered from July to October.
Location: Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Kleinmond
Price: From R650, depending on the size of group.
Visit: gravity.co.za/palmiet-river/
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