Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism in Cape Town came to a halt. However, the owner of Sport Helicopters came up with the idea of utilizing the downtime constructive and starting a boat tours company in the V&A Waterfront. We identified an opportunity to provide a magnificent boating experience to both locals and tourists visiting Cape Town. We realized that the boating business would perfectly complement our helicopter operations. Our goal was to create services that are comfortable, relaxing, and contribute to the atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront.
We contacted Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing and placed an order for two custom-built vessels to use for our new boat business. We decided to have a harbor boat for our shorter 30-minute cruises and a sailing catamaran for our longer 1-hour cruises and sunset cruises. While the boats were being built, we renovated our offices, developed our state-of-the-art booking system, and recruited the necessary staff to operate our new vessels.
In November 2021, we opened our doors and began trading as “Waterfront Boat Tours.” With over 20 years of experience in the helicopter tours industry, we adapted our 5-star rated helicopter operation to our new boat business.
A beautiful life
“A Beautiful Life” is a 53ft Balance 530 Catamaran manufactured in 2021 by Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing. “A Beautiful Life” was completed and put in the water December 2021. She was designed to be a comfortable sailing catamaran, offering a quiet relaxing cruise to those aboard. “A Beautiful Life” is fitted with a unique seating configuration at the front of the vessel for passengers who don’t like to sit in the wind. Should there be no wind, fear not, the catamaran is fitted with 2 x Turbo Diesel Inboard Motors to motor her to her destination and back. There is comfortable seating for 56 passengers all around the catamaran.
As you step aboard the spacious vessel, you are greeted by friendly staff and stunning views of the shimmering ocean, table mountain and the bustling harbor. The catamaran is equipped with all the amenities you could want, from comfortable seating to a fully stocked bar serving a variety of local beers, ciders and soft drinks. There is a large open-back canopy with shaded seating for passengers who wish to move out of the sun. “A Beautiful Life” offers a variety of daily scheduled cruises, Sunset cruises and is also available for private bookings.
One of the most spectacular sights on the cruise is the marine life that can be seen from the catamaran. Dolphins frolic in the waves, their sleek bodies slicing through the water with ease. Seals bask on the rocks, their curious eyes following the boat as it passes by. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a majestic whale breaching in the distance.
On a sunset cruise you will expereince the colors of the sky begin to shift and change, casting a golden glow over the water. The air cools and the stars begin to twinkle in the sky, creating a magical atmosphere on board. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the beauty of the world around you and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. A beautiful cruise on a large catamaran from the V&A Waterfront is a true highlight of any visit to Cape Town, and one that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Une Belle Vie
Our second new vessel is called “Une Belle Vie“, a 47ft power catamaran that was manufactured in 2021 by Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing. “Une Belle Vie” was launched in October 2021 and was specifically designed to be a spacious double-decker power catamaran, with ample shade, making it perfect for large groups and private parties. The vessel is equipped with a bar, sound system, and can accommodate up to 56 passengers. Passengers have the option to enjoy the view from the upper deck or sit below deck to avoid the wind and sun. Since it is a harbor boat catamaran with a double hull, “Une Belle Vie” provides a comfortable and stable cruise experience. In addition, the vessel features a cash bar that stocks a variety of local beers, ciders, and soft drinks.
With its stunning views of the harbor and the city skyline, a harbor boat cruise is the perfect way to experience Cape Town’s beauty from a different perspective. On the day of your cruise, make sure to arrive at the V&A Waterfront with plenty of time to spare. The Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore, so it’s a great place to spend some time before or after your cruise. As you board your boat and set off into the harbor, be prepared to be amazed by the stunning views. From the towering Table Mountain to the historic harbour, there’s plenty to see and learn about on your cruise.
“Une Belle Vie” offers daily 30-minute scheduled cruises, sunset cruises, and is also available for private bookings.
