Ocean Sailing Charters: Sunset Cruise Knysna, South Africa

Discover the ocean state of mind.

While there are plenty of reasons to visit this scenic coastal town on the Garden Route, sailing on the Knysna lagoon on a luxurious catamaran is the perfect way to unwind.

With a sigh of anticipation, I stepped onto the jetty, admiring the catamaran’s sleek design and spacious deck, which provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable sunset experience.

The sails tightened and the boat set sail away from the safety of the shore. As it pushed its way through the water, we made ourselves comfortable on one of the trampolines — and we were on our way aboard Larabella, the flagship luxury catamaran from Ocean Sailing Charters. Music set the atmosphere on the deck while we sipped complimentary sparkling wine and took in the views.

Location

Our sunset sail was on the Knysna Lagoon, which sits in the most pristine part of the Garden Route — a coastal stretch that runs from the Outeniqua to the Tsitsikamma Mountain range, of which Knysna is the heart. A town situated on the shores of a protected natural basin, it is guarded by two huge geological formations known as the Knysna Heads: two towering sandstone cliffs that rise from the sea, forming a narrow, dramatic opening into the Indian Ocean. This marvel is one of the most striking natural features along the entire Southern African coastline. Views along this jagged-edged coast include small hidden beaches bordered by indigenous fynbos and weathering sandstone formations which, through time, have created alluring picturesque coves and mysterious stone caverns. To complete the scene, a line of forests and blue mountains in the distance provides the perfect backdrop.

Sun, Wind and Tide

As sailing is a cherished Knysna experience, several boat operators take visitors from the lagoon, through the Heads and out to the ocean and back again. The lively Waterfront area of Knysna is lined with gently bobbing sailboats and atmospheric restaurants offering fresh seafood, world-class oysters and magnificent views. There is nothing that makes you feel more alive than breathing in fresh ocean air while gazing out over the blue horizon with the African sun on your skin.

What sets Ocean Sailing Charters apart from its competitors is its luxury catamarans. The company is a family-owned and operated venture, and I could feel this in the extra level of care that went into the experience. They have a team of passionate people who have brought together their love for travel, fun, sailing, good food and excellent wine. We sat back and were treated to a marvellous escape aboard the most luxurious catamaran in the Garden Route. The tranquillity of being on the water was deeply calming as a soft, warm wind blew gently while we sailed towards the Knysna Heads.

The boat glided smoothly across the calm waters with its sails billowing in the gentle breeze, and there was every opportunity to keep an eye out for playful seals and dolphins and other majestic marine life.

Testing the Waters

As we approached the channel exit into the Heads, an ominous swell developed. The tide was coming in, and there was news of a blustery storm brewing at sea. The experience and confidence of the crew were evident as the skipper carefully guided the boat through the swells. The sky darkened and the wind picked up. The waves crashed against the coastline, driven by increasingly strong gusts. The sea swells became towering, and then another boat emerged from the mist like a ghostly apparition. Life jackets were hastily put on all passengers, and wine glasses were whisked away in readiness for the rough waters ahead.

The salty spray kissed my face as the wind filled the sails and streamed through my hair, the chill nipping at our faces. Even with this change in weather, there was a shared sense of excitement and harmony with the boat and the elements.

Although a catamaran sailing on swells experiences a unique blend of motion and stability, our captain decided to turn around and head back to the calm lagoon, judging the rogue waves too dangerous to attempt.

On a calmer day, the journey takes you out to the glistening ocean, with ample time for lazing in the sun, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming and snorkelling.

Dinner Is Served

Once back in the lagoon, we were able to unwind and witness a spectacular sunset — a blaze of orange and red across the sky — while being treated to the delicious local flavours of the captain’s braai (BBQ), sipping ice-cold drinks and feasting on steak complemented by an array of tasty salads and garlic bread.

It was astonishing that the crew managed to perfectly cook the fillet steak while guiding the boat through that rough patch of swells, having dinner ready in time for the sunset on the calm waters of the lagoon.

The golden glow of the setting sun transformed into watercolour hues of pink and lavender across the sky and over the lagoon — magnificent.

Our return journey passed the old Tapas Jetty on Thesen Island, then past the Knysna Yacht Club before turning back into the Knysna Quays — an unexpected and welcome addition, offering a fresh perspective on the waterfront. By the time we docked, the sun was just slipping below the horizon, and the views over the glass-like lagoon were immaculate.

Sail Fast, Live Slow

Experience the thrill of adventure as you explore Knysna — the ‘heart and soul’ of the Garden Route. Its natural surroundings make it the destination for sightseeing, foodie experiences, leisure adventures and recreational sport, whether on the water, on land or in the air. Ocean Sailing Charters is part of the signature Cape Country Routes Collection of carefully selected activities and accommodation in South Africa’s Western and Eastern Cape.

As I discovered the ocean state of mind, the journey was like a dance with whispers in the wind and a sea worthy of dreams.