Top five sailing destinations

Sailing has become one of the world's foremost exclusive sports with boats alone starting at prices between R5 - R150 million. And while this multi-million rand sport continues to grow from strength to strength, sailing doesn't necessarily mean you have to be competitive. 

South Africa has an abundance of natural wonders and scenic locations that makes leisurely sailing a fantastic pastime. From the pristine coastlines of the Mother City to the internationally acclaimed Langebaan lagoon, and finally the warm waters of the Indian ocean which encompasses a tropical scene. Clear waters and blissful views of the surrounding landscape makes South Africa a premium destination for nautical enthusiasts.

Ahead, we list our top five destinations for taking up sailing.

Knysna

Located within the Garden Route's 300kms of intricately woven coastline is the picturesque town of Knysna. Knysna is a beautiful slice of paradise loved by holidaymakers from both Cape  Town and abroad and provides the perfect destination for both private and commercial sailing enterprises.

Boasting a stunning lagoon, cruises and sales along the calm Atlantic make for an excellent vacation. Enjoy the natural splendour of the Knysna Heads (Two cliffs located along the lagoon), breathtaking sea view sunsets, and explore the natural cave network endemic to the region.

Cape Town

No list of sailing locations could be complete without a shout-out to the Mother City. It goes without saying that with the backdrop of the famous Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the urban environment of the country's one and only cosmopolitan city, this destination is ideal for sailing.

Because of a unique setting, Cape Town makes for an excellent sailing experience where one can envision and create their own routes. From sailing outside the serene V&A Waterfront to circling the infamous Robben Island, the Mother City offers plenty of vibey locations for enjoyable sightseeing. 

What's more, the possibility of whales and dolphins swimming alongside your vessel makes the experience that much more memorable.

Gqebera (Port Elizabeth)

Previously known as Port Elizabeth, the coastal city of Gqeberha is an ocean sailing hotspot! This is mainly due to the fact that the city has one of the widest coastlines in the Eastern Cape which encompasses over 135 km.

One of the major attractions, despite scenic views of the Wild Coast, is the Swartkops River which snakes through the city confines and is popular for both fishing and sailing. Beyond this, Gqeberha's ocean limits are also one of the major breeding grounds for marine life such as whales and dolphins.

Durban 

Known as the city of Fun, Sun, and Sea (Funsunsea!) Durban is a top destination for beach days, surfing, and sailing. Thanks to the warm currents of the Indian Ocean, Durban is a hot spot both literally and in terms of popularity.

When thinking of and living in Durban, warm sandy beaches, an abundance of greenery, awesome food, warm weather, and a city that brims with cultural diversity comes to mind. One of the notable reasons to consider this location for sailing is the fact that you can take an afternoon swim in the calming waters during your cruise. While you could practically do that in any sea, the warm Indian ocean makes the experience that much more inviting.

Langebaan

While luxury sailing along the coasts of South Africa definitely makes for an ideal afternoon or vacation activity, hobby sailing takes this leisurely pastime to the next level. What is hobby sailing? Think of the most intense water sports thundering down dangerous rapids using nothing but a sailing kayak designed out of lightweight polymers.

Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies alike enjoy this hobby because it allows them to solo-man their kayaks and race each other competitively. In this extreme sport, the most skilled and agile racers always take the prize.

Langebaan, located along the West Coast in Saldanha Bay makes this sort of adventuring easy thanks to its perfect climate and a great lagoon that melds both river rafting and ocean sailing into one. Langebaan is well known for this particular sport so newcomers and adventure seekers alike are never too far from world-class trainers and professional assistance.

Read our previous article here: ​​https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/making-the-move-to-mauritius-heres-what-you-need-to-know/ 

Contact Hamiltons Property Portfolio for all your buying or selling requirements:

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