Blue Ocean Club
10 days · 10 stops

10-Day South Africa Yacht Charter Itinerary: Eastern Cape & Sunshine Coast

Embark on an immersive South Africa yacht charter, tracing the captivating Eastern Cape coastline and the sun-drenched Sunshine Coast. This 10-day journey offers a profound connection with nature, from thrilling marine encounters to serene river estuaries. Your luxury yacht provides an exclusive vantage point to witness the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of this remarkable region. Discover secluded bays, explore charming towns, and indulge in world-class cuisine, all while experiencing the unparalleled freedom of a South Africa yacht charter. This itinerary is designed for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Scroll to explore ↓

  1. DAY 01

    Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

    Begin your South Africa yacht charter in Gqeberha, a city blending urban energy with coastal charm. After boarding your yacht, settle in and enjoy the views of Algoa Bay.

    • Explore the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World
    • Visit the Bayworld Museum Complex
    • Relax at Pollock Beach
    • Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard
    Anchorage
    Port Elizabeth Yacht Club (marina berth)
    Dining
    Equinox Restaurant (contemporary cuisine)
  2. DAY 02

    St Francis Bay

    Sail southwest to the picturesque St Francis Bay, known for its unique canal system and pristine beaches. This charming village offers a relaxed atmosphere and excellent water sports opportunities.

    • Explore the canals by dinghy
    • Surf or paddleboard at Cape St Francis
    • Visit the Port St Francis harbour
    • Walk along the expansive main beach
    Anchorage
    Port St Francis Marina
    Dining
    Joe Fish (seafood restaurant)
  3. DAY 03

    Jeffrey's Bay

    A short cruise brings you to Jeffrey's Bay, a world-renowned surfing mecca. Even if you're not a surfer, the town offers vibrant surf shops, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe.

    • Watch surfers at Supertubes
    • Visit the African Dawn Wildlife Sanctuary
    • Explore the Shell Museum
    • Browse surf shops for local crafts
    Anchorage
    Jeffrey's Bay outer anchorage (weather dependent)
    Dining
    Nina's Real Food (casual, healthy options)
  4. DAY 04

    Plettenberg Bay

    Continue along the stunning Garden Route coastline to Plettenberg Bay, a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and marine life. The bay is a prime spot for whale and dolphin watching.

    • Explore Robberg Nature Reserve (hiking and views)
    • Visit Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary
    • Relax on Central Beach
    • Marine safari for whale and dolphin spotting
    Anchorage
    Plettenberg Bay (designated anchorage)
    Dining
    The Fat Fish (seafood with bay views)
  5. DAY 05

    Knysna

    Navigate through the iconic Knysna Heads into the tranquil Knysna Lagoon. This charming town is famous for its oysters, indigenous forests, and vibrant waterfront.

    • Explore the Knysna Waterfront
    • Visit the Knysna Heads viewpoint
    • Taste fresh Knysna oysters
    • Forest walk in the Knysna Forest
    Anchorage
    Knysna Waterfront Marina
    Dining
    34 South (seafood and deli)
  6. DAY 06

    Wilderness

    Sail to Wilderness, a scenic coastal town nestled amidst lakes, rivers, and mountains. This area is part of the Wilderness National Park and offers abundant birdlife and natural beauty.

    • Canoeing on the Touw River
    • Explore the Wilderness beach
    • Birdwatching in the national park
    • Visit Map of Africa viewpoint
    Anchorage
    Wilderness outer anchorage (weather dependent)
    Dining
    Fláva Café (contemporary South African)
  7. DAY 07

    Mossel Bay

    Continue west to Mossel Bay, a historic town with a rich maritime past. It's known for its beautiful beaches, the iconic Post Office Tree, and opportunities for shark cage diving.

    • Visit the Dias Museum Complex
    • See the Post Office Tree
    • Relax on Santos Beach
    • Optional shark cage diving (pre-booked)
    Anchorage
    Mossel Bay Harbour (marina berth)
    Dining
    Cafe Gannet (seafood with harbour views)
  8. DAY 08

    Struisbaai

    Sail around Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, to Struisbaai. This charming fishing village boasts the longest uninterrupted white beach in the Southern Hemisphere and a picturesque harbour.

    • Visit the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse
    • Walk along the 14km beach
    • Observe stingrays in the harbour
    • Explore the quaint fishing village
    Anchorage
    Struisbaai Harbour
    Dining
    Pelican's Harbour Cafe (casual, fresh seafood)
  9. DAY 09

    Gansbaai

    Head towards Gansbaai, world-renowned as the shark cage diving capital. The area is also famous for its diverse marine life, including whales and seals, in the waters of Danger Point.

    • Optional shark cage diving or surface viewing
    • Visit the Danger Point Lighthouse
    • Explore the fishing harbour
    • Whale watching (seasonal)
    Anchorage
    Gansbaai outer anchorage (weather dependent)
    Dining
    Blue Goose Restaurant (local dishes)
  10. DAY 10

    Hermanus

    Conclude your yacht charter in Hermanus, a beautiful coastal town famous for being one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations in the world. Disembark and reflect on your incredible journey.

    • Walk the Cliff Path for whale watching (seasonal)
    • Explore the Hermanus Old Harbour
    • Visit the local art galleries
    • Wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
    Anchorage
    New Harbour Marina
    Dining
    Bientang's Cave Seafood Restaurant (unique cave setting)
Internal link web

Build a week from this itinerary — every related page

The Blue Ocean Club archive — destinations, sample itineraries, seasonal guides, marquee events, marinas and editorial reading. Everything cross-references everything else, so you can plan a week from any starting point.

Popular destinations
Editorial reading