Small Group
Boutique Boat Cruises
on
Knysna Lagoon
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Small Group
Boutique Boat Cruises
on
Knysna Lagoon
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey: Discover the natural beauty of the Knysna Lagoon with our diverse range of Boutique Boat Cruises offered aboard our Unique Fleet of Vintage Vessels
Explore the serene and sheltered waters of the Knysna Lagoon with Magic Lagoon Charters. Our unique Vintage vessel cruises are the top-rated Knysna boat charter company on TripAdvisor! We offer a variety of boat trips, with our most popular being the sunset cruise.
For your comfort and peace of mind, our boat cruises focus on the calm and beautiful areas of the lagoon, steering clear of the challenging waters in the mouth of the Heads and the Indian Ocean beyond.
Discover the best way to experience Knysna’s natural beauty with our diverse range of boat cruises. Enhance your cruise experience with Oysters, Champagne, Drinks, and Platters available for pre-order at checkout. Check out the menus at The Sandbar.
12 Passenger Thames River Launch
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9 Passenger Dauntless Cruiser
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10 Passenger Sea Ray Sundancer
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12 Passenger 40ft Tiara
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The breathtaking Knysna Lagoon, as shown in the interactive photo above, is where your next adventure begins. Our cruises navigate the serene downriver section of the lagoon, stretching from the picturesque Thesen Island to the iconic Knysna Heads.
Starting from QUAY TH34 in Thesen Harbour Town, situated in the bustling heart of Thesen Island (just above the “ROMANTIC” label in the photo), you’ll embark on a journey through the tranquil waters of the lagoon. This vibrant area is the gateway to all our memorable cruises.
Our most popular routes lead to The Knysna Heads, visible at the top of the photo, slightly left of center, just below the “NG” in “SIGHTSEEING.” These towering sandstone cliffs frame the narrow channel that permanently links the lagoon to the vast Indian Ocean. On the left, the Eastern Head is nestled below “SIGHTSEEING,” while the Western Head lies just below “SUNSET.”
Although we stay within the sheltered waters of the lagoon—where it’s safe and serene—you’ll still experience the dramatic beauty of The Heads without venturing out to sea, where conditions can be unpredictable.
As you glide along the Main Navigation Channel connecting Thesen Island and The Heads, you’ll see Leisure Island, stretching off to the top left of the photo, offering stunning views and an idyllic backdrop for your cruise. The photo captures the lagoon at high tide, revealing one of the submerged sandbanks just above the “PRIVATE” label.
Click on the headings in the photo to learn more about our various cruise options, each offering a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Knysna Lagoon. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a scenic sightseeing tour, or a private gathering with friends, there’s a perfect cruise waiting for you.
Sightseeing Cruises
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!
Sunset Cruises
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.
Romantic Cruises
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. Contact our team for special requests such as video recording, flowers, balloons, bunting, and other personalised touches.
Private Boat Charters
For intimate groups of family and friends, our Private Boat Charters offer a private escape for a few hours. Ideal for birthday parties, small corporate events, and other celebrations, you can fully enjoy the Knysna lifestyle with a 2, 4, or 6-hour cruise to the Knysna Heads. Anchor the boat for swimming, snorkelling, suntanning, and finish off with a Captain’s Braai.
Sandbar Extras
Ready for an Epic Boutique Boat Adventure? Enjoy views of wildlife, stunning sunsets and more!
Get ready to discover the best secret spots and hidden gems to make your boutique boat cruise an unforgettable experience.
Speak to our crew to create an amazing adventure! You’ll have the chance learn about local history, culture and wildlife as you explore all that Knysna has to offer. The Knysna Lagoon is one of the best water activity destinations in South Africa, unspoilt and pristine with an abundance of marine and bird life. There’s something truly magical about experiencing the world from a new perspective on the beautiful Knysna Lagoon! Looking for a sunset cruise? Choose from our list of Knysna activities below, we have a variety of boats and options like sunset cruises, scenic adventure cruises, wooden classic boat trips and luxury motorised yachts cruises. Choose a trip with one of our experienced Captains below. Our online booking system will show you the prices and availability by the hour.
Thesen Island to the Knysna Heads and back
“Cruise the Heads” and the Knysna Lagoon aboard any vessel from The Magic Fleet. Depart from The Magic Quay on Thesen Island and cruise to the Knysna heads while enjoying snacks, drinks, and the natural splendour of the Knysna lagoon
Fully licenced bar and platters available on pre-order
Duration
1 – 1 ½ hours (depends on tides and weather)
Departures Schedule
Summer – 10am, Noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
Winter – 10am,Noon, 2pm, 4pm
Depart Thesen Island for your Bespoke Private Romantic Cruise
Be the Captain of her Heart and spoil her on a Private Romantic Cruise aboard any vessel from The Magic Fleet. Imagine, just the two of you and the freedom of the open water – arrange a truly special treat by adding French Champagne & Oysters available on pre-order.
Fully licensed bar and platters available pre-order.
Duration
1 to 1 ½ hours (depends on tides and weather – if you would like to book a longer cruise, then the previous time slot becomes two hours long. I.e., if you book the 10am, 12 and 2pm slots your cruise starts at 10 and ends at 3:30pm)
Departures Schedule
Summer – 10am, Noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
Winter – 10am, Noon, 2pm, 4pm
Depart Thesen Island for your Bespoke Private Cruise
Avoid the crowds by booking a private cruise aboard any vessel from The Magic Fleet for You, Your family, and your close friends. Cruise safely on the Knysna lagoon aboard your own privately chartered vessel. Choose your route, destination, and a drink to enjoy with those closest to you.
Fully licensed bar and platters available on pre-order
Duration
1 to 1 ½ hours (depends on tides and weather – if you would like to book a longer cruise, then the previous time slot becomes two hours long. I.e., if you book the 10am, 12 and 2pm slots your cruise starts at 10 and ends at 3:30pm)
Departures Schedule
Summer – 10am, Noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
Winter – 10am, Noon, 2pm, 4pm
WE WELCOME DOGS ON BOARD ON ANY ROMANTIC OR PRIVATE CRUISE
They are a part of the family, so why not set sail with your furry friend.
Dogs are welcome on any romantic or private cruise. Kindly note that this has to be specified at the time of booking.
The boatride was truely a magical experience from start to finish. Everything, from booking the trip (where my enquiry about disabled accessability was seen to) to the end of the... read more
What a lovely experience. We enjoyed the boat trip so much and had a good time with the captain! The views are beautiful! Definitely a trip to recommend!
This is such a nice way to explore the area from the water! It is very relaxed, especially with the captain's insightful conversations..he's hilarious . The staff was super friendly... read more
So pleased we decided to do this! Peter the Skipper was amazing. Such a lovely guy. He has such passion & enthusiasm and was very informative about the area /... read more
PaulaDavis69
Been in the boat alone with my partner during her birthday, the special request that I got was good.
Pete, our skipper of a beautiful old wooden classic boat , was most knowledgeable about the area of Knysna and it’s surrounds. He told us many things of interest, showed... read more