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Arnold Petersen | Klein River and Kleinrivier Mountains reflected in the water, Stanford, Western Cape, South Africa
Arnold Petersen

The best river cruises in South Africa

Want to skip traffic and explore our beautiful country from the water? We’ve got you covered...

Amy Fraser
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One of the great beauties of South Africa is just how much there is to see, and, even more importantly, how many different ways there are to see it. Want a bird’s-eye view and a heart-pounding bungee jump? We’ve got you covered with the world’s largest commercial bungee bridge.

Prefer to slow things down and experience the country on foot, side by side with locals? We’ve got that too. Whether you’re keen to eat your way through Cape Town’s colourful and historic Bo-Kaap or tuck into local favourites like a true Joburg local, there’s something for everyone.

Want to skip traffic altogether and explore our beautiful country from the water? You can bet we’ve got that covered as well – and we’ve compiled a list to help make your decision a little easier.

Before we begin, though, there’s a bit of admin to cover: the do's and don’ts, what to pack, planning tips, and basic etiquette.

On most of these river cruises, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of South Africa’s incredible wildlife, flora, and fauna up close. Remember, you’re a visitor in their home – act respectfully and always follow the safety guidelines laid out by your tour guide. And if you’re on a cruise where you’re being wined and dined, it goes without saying: don’t litter.

You and your weather app should become best friends. Be sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly. While many operators run 365 days a year, strong weather conditions can disrupt plans. Don’t forget essentials like SPF or a rain jacket, depending on the conditions.

As a quick disclaimer, all prices mentioned are accurate at the time of writing. Be sure to check operators’ websites for any updates or changes.

And, lastly, remember to have fun, relax, and take in South Africa in all its glory.

Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

TIME OUT SOUTH AFRICA RECOMMENDS:

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📍 The best things to do in Durban
📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg

The best river cruises in South Africa

Lady Stanford River Cruises

If you’re a bird lover, this is an experience not to be missed. A gentle cruise down the Klein River from Stanford to the Hermanus Estuary in the Western Cape aboard the Lady Stanford offers great birdwatching opportunities. You may spot more than 120 bird species, including the Blue Crane (South Africa’s national bird), flamingos, and the majestic African Fish Eagle.

The Lady Stanford comfortably accommodates up to 26 passengers and is fully equipped for birding, with reference books and checklists and binoculars.

Ideal time to go: The cruise operates year-round, except on 25 December and 1 January. I’d recommend visiting during the warmer months for the most comfortable experience, though blankets are provided if the weather turns chilly.

Price: For price information, email bookings@grootbos.co.za

Also read: The best birding spots in Cape Town

Viljoensdrift

Staying in the Western Cape, Viljoensdrift’s flat-bottomed river boat, Uncle Ben 2, offers a 50-minute cruise down the Breede River. Along the way, you may spot birds among the Breede River Yellowwood and Wild Olive trees, so packing a pair of binoculars is a good idea.

The best part? You can enjoy the journey with a picnic filled with goodies from the Viljoensdrift Deli, perfectly paired with Viljoensdrift wines.

Ideal time to go: I’d recommend a sunny, dry day, as the boat is completely open. Alternatively, be brave and come prepared with an umbrella and rain jacket.

Price: Tickets cost R120 for adults and R50 for children aged 3 to 12.

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Sibuya

Situated on the Eastern Cape’s Sunshine Coast, Sibuya is a 4-star, malaria-free, family-owned private game reserve. With its reception located in Kenton-on-Sea and home to the Big Five, it makes the perfect pitstop when exploring the province.

All day trips at Sibuya start with a scenic boat cruise up the beautiful Kariega Estuary. If you plan on just a river cruise, this will take between 3 to 4 hours and includes a buffet lunch served on the banks of the river.

Sibuya also offers a 3-hour Sundowner Cruise, available from now until 30 April 2026 and again from 1 October 2026 to 30 April 2027; however, a minimum of four guests is required.

Ideal time to go: Peak season runs from 16 December 2026 to 15 January 2027, and again from 16 December 2027 to 15 January 2028.

Price: 

River Cruise

  • Children (3-12): R541 to R813 per child
  • Adults: R1,082 to R1,627 per adult

Sundowner Cruise

1 October 2025 – 30 April 2026

  • Adults:
    • R600 per adult (4 people)
    • R477 per adult (5 people or more)
  • Children:
    • R300 per child (4 people)
    • R240 per child (5 people or more)

1 October 2026 – 30 April 2027

  • Adults:
    • R650 per adult (4 people)
    • R515 per adult (5 people or more)
  • Children:
    • R325 per child (4 people)
    • R258 per child (5 people or more)

Also read: Seaside towns you must visit in South Africa

Liquid Lounge

Less than an hour’s drive from Johannesburg, Liquid Lounge has been hosting private parties and corporate functions along the lush shores of the Vaal River since 2003. Guests can enjoy 1-hour leisure cruises and 2-hour lunch cruises, departing from Emerald Resort & Casino.

Ideal time to go: Cruises take place every Sunday and on public holidays throughout the year. Be sure to pack a jacket if you’re visiting during the colder months.

Price:

  • Leisure cruise: R250 per adult | R125 per child under 12
  • Lunch cruise: R680 per adult | R340 per child under 12
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St Lucia Estuary

St Lucia is a charming small town on South Africa’s east coast, nestled amidst stunning coastal forests, abundant wildlife, vibrant birdlife, and pristine beaches. For an unforgettable wildlife experience, hop on a two-hour cruise along the St Lucia Estuary, where you have the chance to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat.

Ideal Time to Go: Cruises run year-round, with departure times varying between summer (mid-September to mid-April) and winter (mid-April to mid-September).

Price: R290 per adult | R145 for children under 12

Also read: Where to find the wild ones near Durban

Stonehaven Vaal River Cruises

Stonehaven on Vaal is a country resort nestled along the tranquil banks of the Vaal River in Gauteng. They offer four scenic cruise experiences: the Casual Cruise, Breakfast Cruise, Lunch Cruise, and the Friday Date Night Sunset Cruise. Cruise durations range from approximately 50 minutes to two hours, making it easy to choose an option that suits your schedule.

The Lunch Cruise features a generous three-course buffet, while the Breakfast Cruise offers a full buffet to start your day right. For a more romantic experience, the Date Night Cruise includes a delicious three-course meal and a complimentary bottle of wine.

Ideal Time to Go: Stonehaven is best enjoyed during the warmer, drier months. That said, if you don’t mind a little rain adding to the ambiance, feel free to visit year-round – just remember to bring a jacket.

Prices:

  • Casual Cruise: R160 per adult | R95 per child (under 12)
  • Breakfast Cruise: R465 per adult | R225 per child (under 12)
  • Lunch Cruise: R645 per adult | R225 per child (under 12)
  • Date Night Sunset Cruise: R480 per person

Also read: The best day trips from Johannesburg

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Harties Boat Company

If you’re in the North West, Hartbeespoort Dam, fondly known as Harties, is calling. Harties Boat Company operates three vessels offering cruises ranging from one to two hours, allowing you to experience Harties up close with uninterrupted views of the dam and surrounding landscapes.

Their cruise options include the Daily Lunch Cruise, Champagne Sunset Cruise, 1-Hour Cruise, Breakfast/Brunch Cruise, and the popular Sunday Combo, perfect for a relaxed outing or a special occasion.

Ideal time to go: Cruises operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year. However, in the event of severe weather, cruises may be rescheduled or a voucher or alternative date offered, so it’s best to check the weather forecast before booking.

Prices:

  • Daily Lunch Cruise: R645 per adult | R445 per child (ages 6 to 12)
  • Champagne Sunset Cruise: R645 per adult | R445 per child (ages 6 to 12)
  • 1-Hour Cruise: R345 per adult | R245 per child (ages 6 to 12)
  • Breakfast/Brunch Cruise: R645 per adult | R445 per child (ages 6 to 12)
  • Sunday Combo: R645 per adult | R347.50 per child (ages 6 to 12)
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