Hout Bay Harbour and Seal Island
Witness hundreds of Cape Fur Seals on a scenic boat trip from Hout Bay Harbour, with breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Boats depart frequently
Hout Bay Harbour and Seal Island
Best Time
Boats depart frequently
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness hundreds of Cape Fur Seals on a scenic boat trip from Hout Bay Harbour, with breathtaking coastal views.
"An out of this world experience! A must do! You not only get to watch the seals but if you are lucky enough, you can also see dolphins and whales on the way."
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Several operators depart from Hout Bay Harbour. Circe Launches is highly recommended for a great experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It can get breezy on the water, so bring a jacket.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seal Island Colony
Duiker Island
Witness hundreds of Cape Fur Seals basking on rocks and swimming in the ocean. A truly wild and unforgettable wildlife spectacle.
Hout Bay Harbour
Hout Bay
A vibrant hub with fresh seafood, local crafts, and the departure point for your Seal Island adventure.
+1
Scenic Coastal Views
Atlantic Seaboard
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the coastline, mountains, and ocean during your boat trip.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Seal Island Cruise in Advance
Prepare for Ocean Breezes and Waves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Several operators depart from Hout Bay Harbour. Circe Launches is highly recommended for a great experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It can get breezy on the water, so bring a jacket.
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera to capture the seals and stunning coastal scenery.
🐟 Try Local Seafood
Enjoy delicious fish and chips at the harbour after your cruise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Several operators depart from Hout Bay Harbour. Circe Launches is highly recommended for a great experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
It can get breezy on the water, so bring a jacket.
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera to capture the seals and stunning coastal scenery.
🐟 Try Local Seafood
Enjoy delicious fish and chips at the harbour after your cruise.
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
A Seal Island trip is an affordable and fun family adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hout Bay Seal Island cruise as an 'out of this world experience' and a 'must do' in Cape Town. The abundance of seals, stunning coastal views, and friendly crew are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some note that the ride can be choppy, especially near the island, and advise those prone to seasickness to be prepared.
"Out of the world experience! A must do! You not only get to watch the seals but if you are lucky enough, you can also see dolphins and whales on the way to the seal island. We had a good time in the boat, plenty of space even if crowded. Smooth ride except when reaching very close to the island."
Yashvin Awootar
"Make sure you have a strong stomach especially if the water is choppy. Unbelievable views and experience. The boat ride is about 40 mins in total and Seal Island is a must see"
Motti
"The Hout Bay Seal Island cruise was such a fun and scenic experience! The boat ride was fun and filled with stunning views of the coastline, mountains, and ocean. Once we reached the island, we saw hundreds of seals lounging on the rocks and swimming all around us. It was incredible to see them in their natural habitat. The crew was friendly and shared interesting facts along the way. It’s a short, family-friendly adventure that’s definitely worth adding to your Cape Town itinerary!"
Lydia Guirguis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hout Bay Harbour is accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services from Cape Town. Many visitors drive along the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive to reach it.
Yes, there is usually parking available at Hout Bay Harbour, though it can get busy during peak times. Arrive early if possible.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can explore options like MyCiTi buses to nearby areas and then take a taxi or ride-share.
Chapman's Peak Drive is a toll road and its opening status can vary due to weather. Check local conditions before you travel if this is your primary route.
You can drive, take a taxi, or join a tour that includes Hout Bay as part of a larger Cape Town itinerary. Some tours combine this with a harbour cruise.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically range from R100-R150 per adult and R50-R100 for children, though prices can vary by operator.
It's recommended to book in advance, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot. Boats depart frequently, but pre-booking ensures availability.
Cruises generally run daily, departing every 30-60 minutes from Hout Bay Harbour, weather permitting. It's best to check with specific operators for exact times.
Some operators may offer family packages or group discounts. It's advisable to inquire directly with the boat tour companies.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets directly at the harbour from the various boat tour operators.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The boat trip to Seal Island and back usually lasts about 45-60 minutes.
You'll see hundreds of Cape Fur Seals lounging on the rocks and swimming in the water. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales too!
No, you view the seals from the boat. You don't get to disembark on the island itself.
Yes, it's generally considered a fun and family-friendly adventure. However, be mindful of sea conditions.
Boat trips are weather-dependent. If conditions are too rough, tours may be cancelled for safety reasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hout Bay Harbour is famous for its fresh fish and chips. You can also find other seafood dishes and casual eateries.
Several restaurants and cafes at the harbour offer lovely views of the ocean and the boats.
Some boat tours allow you to bring your own cooler box with drinks and snacks. Check with your chosen operator.
Locals often recommend trying the Snoek or Hake, prepared fresh.
While seafood is the specialty, some eateries may offer other options. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for coastal shots, but any time offers great opportunities.
Absolutely! The boat trip offers fantastic angles of the seals, coastline, and Chapman's Peak.
You'll get close enough to take great photos of the seals on the rocks and in the water from the boat.
A camera with a decent zoom lens is helpful for capturing seals. A wide-angle lens is great for the scenic views.
Some operators might have crew members who can assist with photos, or you might see local photographers offering their services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
After the boat trip, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Hout Bay Harbour. Grab some classic fish and chips, which are a hit with children, and let them explore the harbour area. The market, if open, can also provide entertainment with local crafts and snacks. Remember to bring sun protection and perhaps a light jacket for the sea breeze.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Once at the harbour, you can enjoy the atmosphere and views without spending much. Opt for delicious and affordable fish and chips from one of the local vendors for a satisfying meal. Exploring the harbour and browsing the market (if available) are free activities that add to the experience.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom lens to get detailed shots of the seals. A wide-angle lens will be perfect for the panoramic ocean and mountain views. The late afternoon light can be particularly magical for coastal photography. Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the harbour and the local fishing boats.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seal Island Experience
Upon arrival at Seal Island, you'll be greeted by the sight and sound of hundreds of seals. They can be seen basking on the rocks, diving into the water, and playfully interacting with each other. While you won't be able to disembark on the island itself, the boat gets close enough for excellent viewing and photography. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might also spot dolphins or even whales during certain seasons.
Many visitors rave about the friendly nature of the boat crews, who often share interesting facts about the seals and the local marine life. They are also known to be helpful in assisting passengers with taking memorable photos. The experience is generally considered smooth, though it can get a bit choppy depending on the sea conditions.
Exploring Hout Bay Harbour
+1Beyond the culinary delights, the harbour area often hosts a market, especially on weekends, where you can browse for local crafts, art, and souvenirs. It's a great place to soak in the local culture and find unique items. The picturesque setting, with the bay, mountains, and boats, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some people-watching.
For those looking for a more adventurous start or end to their Hout Bay visit, consider hiking a portion of Chapman's Peak for unparalleled views, or simply enjoying the coastal drive. The harbour provides a central point to experience the diverse offerings of this charming seaside town.
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