Cape Town is fast becoming a standout yachting destination. The city attracts travellers who want adventure on land and sea.
Driving Premium Growth
Ker & Downey® Africa leads this rising trend. The Cape Town-based company designs ultra-luxury travel for guests who want fresh perspectives.
Its team creates high-end itineraries that deliver rare access, fine accommodations, and authentic encounters across the continent.
The company’s specialists hold decades of safari expertise. They now craft journeys for travellers arriving by yacht or seeking luxury safaris at sea.
These tailored experiences continue to draw UHNW guests to the region.
Growing Yachting Scene
Nicole Reddy, Head of Marketing at Ker & Downey® Africa, sees steady and selective growth in Cape Town’s yacht sector. She notes that visitors now use the city as a natural getaway rather than a stand-alone stop.
Luxury motor yachts based in the city strengthen this shift. Travellers want to pair time on the water with visits to the Winelands and quick access to safari regions.
The region wins interest because it offers what the Mediterranean and Caribbean cannot.
“Guests have access to a global city, dramatic coastlines, penguins and whales, and world-class wine estates,” says Reddy.
Travellers can also reach Big Five territory within a short flight. Private jets and helicopters make this transfer easy.
For charterers who know the classic cruising grounds, Cape Town feels fresh and authentic. Here, the yacht becomes one part of a wider journey.
Luxury Cruising with an Intimate Feel
Cape Town delivers stylish yet intimate luxury. Charterers can enjoy private cruising safaris with fine dining and attentive service.
They can anchor off Clifton at sunset, explore the peninsula on curated day trips, or enjoy overnight escapes that feel like boutique hotel stays.
Expanding Cape Town Superyacht Capacity
Demand continues to rise. As a result, the V&A Waterfront is expanding its superyacht capacity through a US$1.15 billion development.
The plan includes a new superyacht quay and upgraded infrastructure.
The V&A Waterfront also hosted the first South African Boating Conference, which highlights the region’s growing potential.
Cape Town also works as a launch point for longer voyages. Yachts can explore remote destinations and exclusive Indian Ocean islands.
This broad reach appeals to adventurous charterers and owners.
“Cape Town is set to become a sought-after seasonal stop,” adds Reddy. “It works as a staging point for Southern Africa and a valuable hub for crew downtime or refit periods.”
She notes that the region offers UHNW travellers a fresh winter escape that blends ocean, culture, wine, and safari in one seamless itinerary.
