Knysna Houseboats
Knysna Houseboats
4.5
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About
Our newly refurbished Houseboats, previously operated by Lightleys Holiday Houseboats, exceed all South African Maritime Safety Authority operational and safety requirements. They are your floating home away from home. We have outfitted them to a high specification, so it is truly a comfortable experience.Our luxurious self-drive boats have everything you might need and are suitable for up to 4 adults or a family of 5.In order for you to effortlessly enjoy going onshore, our staff will be available between sunrise and sunset to park your boat at one of our moorings. You just approach the jetty and we’ll take it from there!For the true on-board holiday experience we provide our customers with an assorted catering menu, containing old time favourites such as delicious fresh oysters and champagne, beverages, picnic baskets, cold dishes and braai packs. We even offer room service on the lagoon, so there is no need for you to leave your boat!Being amidst some of the best restaurants the Garden Route has to offer, you can of course also cruise towards Thesen Harbour Town and go for breakfast, lunch or dinner in one of the area’s vibey eateries. Please enquire with our staff for more information and special offers. Our new charter base is located in sophisticated Thesen Islands Harbour Town, where our staff is available for you between 8:30 am and 5 pm.We offer all captains a short navigational course. Once you are fully informed and have a good understanding, we will provide you with a temporary skippers license. So don’t worry if you have never piloted a boat before, most of our customers haven’t either!From our charter base, we offer the following additional services and facilities: Pilots that help you feel at ease and park your boat; Bathrooms with shower cabins and vanity (Hair dryers are also provided in the showers for women); Covered terrace overlooking the estuary where you can relax and have a drink; Renting of fishing rods and towable tubes; Houseboat services that are carried out at a designated jetty and include the following: Fill up with fresh water Re-fuelling (if required) Cleaning and pumping of toilets Check motor cooling system and oil level Rubbish removal Re-supply LP Gas (if required).
Knysna, South Africa
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
350 reviews
Excellent
248
Very good
82
Average
17
Poor
2
Terrible
1
Tanya T
1 contribution
Jan 2022 • Family
The early morning sunrise, fishing, enterainment with moving for the sea tides from destination to destination, facilitese and profesionalisim. We just enjoyed 5 days 4 nights with our two kids, reading, fishing and quality time together. Did not take ipads or laptops just enjoyed the fresh lagoon and sea air. Saw and heard many kinds of birds, the wind was very kind and did not blow too much. The second time we rented in 10 years, and the best time. Friendly and professional staff assisting and guidence. Thank you
Written 26 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
maizie2017
Johannesburg, South Africa2 contributions
Mar 2022
We took our Sales and Ops team on a conference to Knysna and we stayed on 3 x Knysna Houseboats and what an experience we had. The initial shock of the bathroom/shower was met with many a gasp, but once they got the hang of it, they loved it! We also rented the tube which seats 6 adults and it was an awesome sundowner with unexpected beautiful weather for the duration of our stay.
A definite must for anyone who has not had the privilege of enjoying this experience.
A definite must for anyone who has not had the privilege of enjoying this experience.
Written 24 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jennifer196807
Port Elizabeth, South Africa136 contributions
Oct 2021
Very professional handover of house boat, a quick training video and temp COC issued. The boat has everything one needs to have a relaxing weekend. Gas oven and hob (no microwave) completely equipped with cutlery and crockery, pots and pans. Only 12v cigarette charger for mobile phones so don't take hairdryers or anything else electrical. Numbered buoy's allow you to traverse the estuary safely without getting stuck or hitting sandbanks. You have to be moored at your nights resting place by 6pm so don't plan eating at one of the local restaurants, rather opt for a romantic dinner listening to sounds of nature and fish jumping in the water. Great sunrises and sunsets make it a great spot for photographers. Will definitely do it again.
Written 8 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Johan C
Langebaan, South Africa10 contributions
Feb 2024
The trip was enjoyable however there are a couple of things that could make this a much better vacation.
Firstly the maintenance on the boats are getting a bit neglected there were several things that was not being fixed and making thing uncomfortable.
For instance the fridge does not freeze and stops working after day two as the batteries are to run down.
The oven does not work at all so why have it? The bigger of the two plate gas stove did not work. Mold and rot are setting in on the bedroom dividing wall. The awning is old and sun deteriorated and the straps and bracket that is supposed to hold it broken, why not just replace it with a permanent solar roof that will keep the batteries running and make the whole experience much better. Also servicing, if you install solar panels, water and toilet change out can be done with a small tender boat. The anchor and chain is too big and heave to be lifted by a woman as its all hand pull it will be cheap and easy to just install a hand crank winch drum to draw the anchor and hang it of the bow.
A Drogue Pvc Sea Anchor will be a nice addition to keep the boat stable in the tide current preventing the wind from swinging the boat around as it gets hectic in the wind. Most of the hinges are dilapidated or broken on the hatches and can do with a bit of maintenance. the bathroom door can not be closed as it has swollen or the hinges are slightly bent so the door keeps on swinging open when showering and continuing on this a holder for the shower handle would be a very nice addition. So taking all this into consideration the first two days was very enjoyable and then things start catching up and not so much after that.
Firstly the maintenance on the boats are getting a bit neglected there were several things that was not being fixed and making thing uncomfortable.
For instance the fridge does not freeze and stops working after day two as the batteries are to run down.
The oven does not work at all so why have it? The bigger of the two plate gas stove did not work. Mold and rot are setting in on the bedroom dividing wall. The awning is old and sun deteriorated and the straps and bracket that is supposed to hold it broken, why not just replace it with a permanent solar roof that will keep the batteries running and make the whole experience much better. Also servicing, if you install solar panels, water and toilet change out can be done with a small tender boat. The anchor and chain is too big and heave to be lifted by a woman as its all hand pull it will be cheap and easy to just install a hand crank winch drum to draw the anchor and hang it of the bow.
A Drogue Pvc Sea Anchor will be a nice addition to keep the boat stable in the tide current preventing the wind from swinging the boat around as it gets hectic in the wind. Most of the hinges are dilapidated or broken on the hatches and can do with a bit of maintenance. the bathroom door can not be closed as it has swollen or the hinges are slightly bent so the door keeps on swinging open when showering and continuing on this a holder for the shower handle would be a very nice addition. So taking all this into consideration the first two days was very enjoyable and then things start catching up and not so much after that.
Written 27 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sherrilynguess2020
12 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Are you looking for a true Knysna experience? Well why not be the captain of your own holiday on a Houseboat!
My family & I had the best weekend aboard the “Dreamer” recently…
After a detailed info briefing, mini skippers’ course, and a test run on the boat, we were given the green light and set sail on the lagoon! The sun was shining & the water was crystal clear – so we decided to head to a spot where we could swim, then laze on the roof of the boat to dry off, chat, play games & read.
It was wonderful to explore the lagoon, visit little beaches & watch the seals play – no electronics, no deadlines, no demands – just reconnecting with loved ones, relaxing & fun under the Knysna sun!
We hired a gas braai along with the boat, so in true South African style – we had a braai for dinner! The Houseboat comes fully equipped with all the comforts of home; cutlery, crockery, glasses, gas oven, bedding (sleeps up to 5 people), shower & toilet - just bring your own towels, food & drink. You can also hire fishing rods & nets – fish braai anyone?
That evening we sat on the roof of the Houseboat admiring the view of Knysna from the water, watched as the day turned to night, and all the stars came out to play – magical!
Whether it’s a family vacay,
Or a romantic getaway…
Book your Houseboat adventure today…
Go make those memories!
My family & I had the best weekend aboard the “Dreamer” recently…
After a detailed info briefing, mini skippers’ course, and a test run on the boat, we were given the green light and set sail on the lagoon! The sun was shining & the water was crystal clear – so we decided to head to a spot where we could swim, then laze on the roof of the boat to dry off, chat, play games & read.
It was wonderful to explore the lagoon, visit little beaches & watch the seals play – no electronics, no deadlines, no demands – just reconnecting with loved ones, relaxing & fun under the Knysna sun!
We hired a gas braai along with the boat, so in true South African style – we had a braai for dinner! The Houseboat comes fully equipped with all the comforts of home; cutlery, crockery, glasses, gas oven, bedding (sleeps up to 5 people), shower & toilet - just bring your own towels, food & drink. You can also hire fishing rods & nets – fish braai anyone?
That evening we sat on the roof of the Houseboat admiring the view of Knysna from the water, watched as the day turned to night, and all the stars came out to play – magical!
Whether it’s a family vacay,
Or a romantic getaway…
Book your Houseboat adventure today…
Go make those memories!
Written 24 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lefaandntebo
Johannesburg, South Africa1 contribution
Apr 2022
This was such a beautiful experience that anyone needs to experience at least once in a lifetime. Andre provided all the necessary information way before we arrived and communicated timeosly. He also allowed us to check in early to enable us to go through the induction course prior to going out on the boat by ourselves. Gert really did a great job with the induction course. It's really a must do!
Written 6 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Deidre L
Pretoria, South Africa4 contributions
Oct 2023
We stayed on three Knysna Houseboats with two other couples recently, and had a most wonderful time. The boats are well maintained and have everything you need so you only have to bring towels. Exploring the Knysna lagoon at your leisure, witnessing stunning sunrises and sun sets, fishing, just chilling - what a lovely, peaceful experience. The staff were so friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble for them. If you want to get away from it all for a few days and be rocked to sleep while listening to the sound of fish eagles calling, this is the trip for you.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
brent850
1 contribution
Feb 2022
Why stay at a, Air BnB, holiday house or resort, when you could spend it on the Knysna Lagoon sailing... Great experience! Temporary Skippers course was informative and easy. The gentlemen who conducted the course with u was encouraging and supportive. The boat house we stayed in was cozy and clean. Riding the boathouse on the lagoon was such a pleasure. Various spots to overnight at over the lagoon, each offering its own unique view of the lagoon. A must for those who are looking for something different and affordable when in Knysna.
Written 3 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Frans S
Cape Town, South Africa3 contributions
Aug 2023
This was great experience to be the captain of your own Houseboat. The boat was fairly comfortable, however quite dated as to the internal lay-out and quality of the cupboards, bedding etc, as it has seen better days. I would recommend a decent internal refurbishment to be done. A bit overpriced for the outdated decor and style. The service and assistance of the Knysna Houseboat Agents were professional, friendly and helpful all the way. Well done, team.
Written 16 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
leeG2066OB
1 contribution
Mar 2022
The staff are friendly, boat easy to steer after very good instructions. We caught and released mud crab, small gully sharks and various species of fish. The boat is comfortable, have a sun shade, the fridge big enough to hold provisions. The outside gas braai great to use, we didn't even need to use the oven inside the boat. Because we stayed so long we went to base twice. We moored and went grocery shopping, had a good meal, got back to a boat where water was filled batteries charged and fuel filled up. Do not forget your Car charger for your cell phones as that is the only way to charge your phone. My only concern and this will not apply to others is that the double bed in the front is too small and I think another plank could be added to convert the entire front part of the boat into a bed. This said, my husband is 6.7 and doesn't fit on any beds with ease. Because there were only two of us on the boat we made up the second double bed. The table area converts into a bed. Don't take too much cloths as packing space is sparse, although you can store things under the beds. You don't have to worry about your car as safe under cover parking is provided. The tides can be quite strong and I love swimming so when moored I tied a rope to my pool noodle so I didnt have to swim to hard to get back to the boar. A very comfortable ladder to get back into the boat.
Written 4 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How do I make a booking and do I have to book for two nights?
Written 11 April 2018
Knysna Houseboats
Knysna, South Africa
Hi Mariana V
You can make a booking by sending us an email. We have a minimum stay of 2 nights.
Warm regards
Knysna Houseboats
Written 11 April 2018
Hi , We would like to book for 13 April to 15 April 2018 ? What is available and at what cost ? )( 2 people only)
Written 8 April 2018
Knysna Houseboats
Knysna, South Africa
Hi Lennis
We are able to assist with availability for 2 nights from the 13th of April. The rate is R2385 per couple per night.
Warm regards
Knysna Houseboats
Written 9 April 2018
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