Seal Island Cruise
Experience the wonders of the ocean through the glass bottom.
Description
Circe launches has been operating for over 50 years, offering cruises to duiker island (seal island) just outside of hout bay. Their flagship vessel, calypso, is south africa’s only glass-bottomed passenger boat, purpose-built for sightseeing with over 150 seats for excellent views.
The cruise offers an intimate view of the seal colony, with professional crew providing interesting facts about the cape fur seals and local marine wildlife. Passengers can also enjoy views of the spectacular sentinel mountain and the dramatic cliffs of chapman’s peak drive.
The 45-minute family-friendly boat trip departs daily from hout bay harbour and is an affordable way to experience cape town’s rich marine life and stunning coastal scenery.
Company Group
Circe Launches
Activity Type
Boat Ride
Email Address
Enquiries: bookings@circelaunches.co.zaPhone Number
Social Media
Google Rating
4.5 ★ | 150+ Google reviewsActivities List
Boat trips | Private charters | Kayaking | Wildlife spotting
Experiences
- Cruise along the dramatic hout bay coastline with sentinel mountain in view.
- Watch playful cape fur seals through the glass bottom of the calypso vessel.
- Feel the invigorating ocean breeze while sailing on the atlantic waters.
- Look out for local marine life, including dolphins and whales during season.
Estimate Duration
45 Minutes.
Guidance Types
Crew guides
Equipment Required/ Rented
Life jackets are available on board
What to Bring
- Booking confirmation or contact info for trip details
- Camera or phone for wildlife photos
- Snacks and drinks if preferred (alcohol allowed)
- Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
- Warm clothing or jacket (it can be chilly on the water)
Additional Information
Safety procedures explained by captain.
Inside Guides
- The morning light enhances visibility through the glass bottom and offers a better chance of seeing active marine life.
- Don’t forget to bring a windbreaker and sunscreen for the open sea.
Weather Conditions
Ideal weather: Sunny | Calm water
Rain alert: Light rain (30–40%)
Weather experience: A cool ocean breeze requires a jacket, but sunny conditions offer a comfortable, scenic trip with excellent seal visibility.
Rules & Safety
Safety procedures explained by Captain
Reservation Policies
Reservations: Walk-ins are accepted but pre-booking is preferable.
Cancellations: Must be cancelled within 24 hours of the booked departure time.
Estimate Price Range
R50 – R100+ | R
Min/Max Price
Min price: R65
Max price: R130
Entry Fees & Pricing
- Adults (14 years and older): R130
- Children (13 years and under): R65
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
Child Friendly
Child friendly
Dog Friendly
Not dog friendly
Booking Methods
Email | Phone | Website
Bar area
Child friendly
Eco-friendly practices
Glass bottom boat
Parking
Professional guides
Restrooms
Safety measures & equipment
Shaded areas
Spectator areas
Toilets
Walk-ins welcome
Wheelchair friendly
Must Tries
Glass Bottom Viewing: Witness hundreds of cape fur seals swimming directly beneath the boat through the unique glass panels. Coastal Panorama: Observe the stunning cliffs of chapman’s peak and the majestic sentinel mountain from the water.
Seal Colony Up-Close: Experience the sheer scale and lively noise of the cape fur seal colony on duiker island.
Highlights
Calypso Cruise: Enjoy a smooth, purpose-built boat ride on the only glass-bottomed passenger vessel in the country.
Marine Education: Gain insight into the life of the seals and other local marine creatures from the expert crew. Harbour Atmosphere: Depart from the vibrant and historic hout bay harbour, a perfect start to the maritime adventure.
Features
- Bar area
- Child friendly
- Eco-friendly practices
- Glass bottom boat
- Parking
- Professional guides
- Restrooms
- Safety measures & equipment
- Shaded areas
- Spectator areas
- Toilets
- Walk-ins welcome
- Wheelchair friendly
Must Tries
Glass Bottom Viewing: Witness hundreds of cape fur seals swimming directly beneath the boat through the unique glass panels. Coastal Panorama: Observe the stunning cliffs of chapman’s peak and the majestic sentinel mountain from the water.
Seal Colony Up-Close: Experience the sheer scale and lively noise of the cape fur seal colony on duiker island.
Highlights
Calypso Cruise: Enjoy a smooth, purpose-built boat ride on the only glass-bottomed passenger vessel in the country.
Marine Education: Gain insight into the life of the seals and other local marine creatures from the expert crew. Harbour Atmosphere: Depart from the vibrant and historic hout bay harbour, a perfect start to the maritime adventure.
Address
Main Quay, Hout Bay Harbour
Parking:Â
On-site parking
Opening Hours
| Daily departures (subject to season and weather) | |
| 09h00 – 09h45 09h45 – 10h30 10h30 – 11h15 12h00 – 13h00 | |
| Weekends & public holidays | |
| 15h00 – 15h45 | |
What To Expect
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