LaraBella, our flagship vessel, is a breathtaking Schionning-designed Wilderness 1650X catamaran, delivering an exceptional balance of performance and luxury. She is the most luxurious sailing catamaran in Knysna, South Africa.
Offering private catamaran charters, lagoon and ocean cruises as well as Sunset ocean sailing experiences. Onboard, she features a full gastro-style kitchen, bar, trampolines, and premium entertainment spaces—designed for both indulgence and adventure.
Tailor your cruise to suit your style. Cast a line, dive straight from the deck, or swim in crystal-clear waters. Paddleboard, snorkel, or simply unwind and soak in the experience.
Our private charters are all about the finer details. Enhance your journey with a live musician, DJ, mixologist, private chef, or photographer, and enjoy a truly bespoke luxury experience.
With unrivalled value, comfort, space, and enjoyment, LaraBella sets a new standard—one no other operator in the region can match.
Duration: 1hr 40min
From R 11 200 (Private cruise)
R 1 260 pp (under 12/years R1 260 pp)
This cruise offers a luxurious, relaxed, environmentally conscious way to experience the Knysna Lagoon and surrounding coastal waters. Aboard the elegant catamarans, guests are guided, by an experienced crew, through one of South Africa’s most iconic and diverse marine ecosystems.
Duration: 2hr 10min
From R 12 200 (Private cruise)
R 1 360 pp (under 12/years R1 360 pp)
Departing from the Knysna Lagoon, this adventure takes you beyond the iconic Knysna Heads and into the Indian Ocean. This is a dynamic sailing experience offers a slightly longer cruise, and the opportunity to enjoy a short swim while anchored near the famous Featherbed Nature Reserve.
Included: Light snacks onboard (per person rate only)
Duration: 2hr – 2hr 30min
From R 14 400 (Private cruise)
R 1 790 pp (under 12/years R1 790 pp)
A scenic sailing experience designed to showcase Knysna at its most magical hour. Aboard the catamaran, you will glide across the Knysna Lagoon as the light softens and the landscape transforms, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding estuary, coastline, and the iconic Knysna Heads. The best sundowner location in the Garden Route.
Included: A glass of MCC and a Captains Braai (BBQ). (per person rate only)
Your journey begins from the Sirocco Jetty on Thesen Island Knysna, where you’ll be greeted by our welcoming captain and crew before setting sail.
Depend on the season, refer to the departure schedule below for times.
Advanced bookings are essential to secure your preferred date.
Our Catamarans each have a well stocked bar onboard with a variety of drinks available to purchase.
Lara Bella includes: a glass of MCC upon boarding as well as a Captains Braai / BBQ. (300g of meat served with x2 sides)
Bella Luna includes: a glass of MCC upon boarding. Snacks and fresh oysters are available on pre-order.
A maximum of just 12 guests onboard every cruise ensures space, comfort, and personalised attention.
Opt to join a small-group cruise or book one of the catamarans exclusively for a private charter experience.
Yes. As one of only two licensed operators allowed beyond the Knysna Heads, our catamarans sail into the Indian Ocean for an authentic wind-powered sailing experience.
(Passage through the Knysna Heads out into the open ocean is subject to Ocean conditions and is at the sole discretion of the skipper. Regardless of our route, you can be assured of a memorable experience.)
A diverse variety of lagoon, bird and ocean marine life are often encountered during the excursion. pods of dolphins, cape fur seals, oyster catchers, sun fish, african darters, and even Whales in season when we are lucky.
For more information on what you could see, have a look at our Marine Sightings page.
While we do have bathroom facilities onboard, we request that you use the restrooms on Thesen Island (opposite Tapas) before you board.
No smoking is allowed on board please.
Please Note; In the unlikely event that this boat is unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, Ocean Sailing Charters reserve the right to utilize an alternative vessel for this experience.
Looking for something extraordinary? Experience the freedom of a private catamaran cruise on the Knysna Lagoon, designed exclusively for you and your guests. Whether you’re looking for an elegant engagement shoot or an executive team event, celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic escape, or hosting a corporate gathering, our private charters offer an intimate, stylish, and fully customisable sailing experience. Create a tailor-made sailing itinerary with personalised timing, catering, and enhancements.
• Bottomless MCC Bubbles
• Gourmet snack platters
• Professional photographer
• Custom or themed decor styling
• Catering by local chefs
• Live music or curated playlists
• Branded corporate experiences
We craft a seamless, premium experience from start to finish.
Private cruise departure times vary seasonally. Please refer to the schedule when booking and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Snacks can be arranged from any of the surrounding restaurants
• Medium Oysters
• Photographer
• Bottle of MCC
• Braai/BBQ (200g of meat with x2 sides)
• Ocean Sailing Cap
• Ocean Sailing quick dry towel
• Live music
• In house charcuterie board
• Private chef
