Simon’s Town: Fishing Charter Boat

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Cape Town’s stunning False Bay, a private fishing charter from Simon’s Town offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and the chance to land some impressive fish. This experience, run by Abundance Fishing and Eco Charters, provides an opportunity to fish with expert guidance aboard a comfortable boat, all while enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Point and the surrounding coastline.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are the personalized attention—since it’s a private charter for up to five people—and the inclusive fishing gear, which means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own rods or bait. That said, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact your plans, and trips are dependent on good weather, so flexibility is a plus.

This experience suits families, friends, or small groups looking for a memorable day at sea without feeling lost in a crowd.

Whether you’re an avid angler or just want to try fishing in a stunning setting, this charter could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing for those who value guided expertise and a tailored experience, rather than a crowded, large-group outing. Now, let’s explore what makes this fishing trip special and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Private and intimate: Enjoy exclusive use of the boat for up to 5 guests, ensuring personalized service.
• All equipment included: No need to bring your own gear—rods, reels, bait, and lures are provided.
• Experienced crew: Skipper Peter McFarlane and his deckhand guide you through fishing techniques and ensure safety.
• Variety of fishing options: Half-day inshore trips focus on species like Yellowtail and Snoek; full-day offshore targets Tuna.
• Onboard amenities: The boat departs from the False Bay Yacht Club dock, with safety gear and licences available.
• Flexible booking: Keep plans open with pay-later options and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience: What to Expect on Your Day at Sea

When considering this fishing adventure, it’s helpful to picture the journey step-by-step. The vessel, Seas The Day, departs from the picturesque False Bay Yacht Club in Simons Town—an ideal starting point that’s both scenic and convenient. You’ll meet your skipper, Peter McFarlane, who’s well-versed in local fishing waters and eager to make your trip enjoyable.

Pre-departure preparations

Before heading out, you’ll sign in at the Yacht Club and meet the crew on the pier. The boat will be ready and waiting—clean, well-maintained, and fully stocked with all the necessary gear. You’ll find the boat equipped with safety gear and life vests, and if needed, fishing licenses can be arranged ahead of time, saving you stress on the day.

Out at sea: the inshore or offshore options

The trip offers two main options: a half-day inshore fishing trip or a full-day offshore tuna adventure.

Half-day trip (around 4-5 hours) is perfect for those with limited time or a first taste of deep-sea angling. You’ll cruise into False Bay, heading up to Cape Point—roughly 5 miles offshore. Here, you can expect to try various fishing techniques, such as casting and trolling, targeting species like Shad, Yellowtail, Cape Bream, and Snoek.

Skipper Peter will assist with casting, ensuring you learn and have fun, regardless of your experience level. Several reviews mention the value of this guidance: one noted, “Peter was very helpful with advice on the best methods, which made the trip both successful and enjoyable.”

Full-day trip (8-10 hours) pushes further out, up to 40 nautical miles off Cape Point, into richer fishing grounds. The focus here is mainly on tuna, with the potential to catch different species depending on conditions. This longer trip makes sense if you’re eager for a serious fishing challenge and to explore the deeper waters.

What makes this trip stand out

The all-inclusive nature of the experience is worth highlighting. Every rod, reel, bait, and lure is on board, so you don’t need to fuss over gear or worry about extra costs unless you plan to buy souvenirs or snacks. The skipper and deckhand are there to help, sharing tips and ensuring safety, making this accessible even to beginners.

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Scenic beauty and wildlife

While fishing is the main focus, the trip doubles as a sightseeing tour. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Point, where cliffs meet crashing waves, and the chance to see marine life like dolphins or seabirds. The open water offers an immersive experience away from crowds, letting you appreciate the rugged coast and expansive bay.

Practical considerations

Trip pricing at $556 per group (up to 5 people) offers good value, considering the private nature of the charter and all-inclusive setup. Many reviewers point out that the personalized experience, combined with expert guidance, makes this a worthwhile investment for a day of fishing in a stunning setting.

Trips are weather-dependent; your skipper will contact you to confirm or reschedule if conditions aren’t suitable. It’s advisable to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and snacks and drinks. Small children and infants are not recommended, especially on the longer offshore trips, and people prone to seasickness should consider this before booking.

What We Love and Consider

We love that this is a private, tailored experience—you’re not part of a large group, which means better attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The all-inclusive gear and expert guidance ensure that even novices can enjoy the thrill of fishing without prior experience or gear. Plus, the scenic backdrop of False Bay and Cape Point makes this trip not just about fishing but also about soaking up some of the most beautiful coastlines around.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—bad weather can cancel or reschedule trips, which is common for outdoor activities at sea. Also, while the price is reasonable for a private, guided experience, it’s a bit on the higher side compared to group tours, but the exclusivity and personalized service are what drive the value.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This fishing charter is ideal for small groups, families, or friends who want a personalized day at sea with expert guidance. It’s perfect for those new to fishing or seasoned anglers looking to fish in a beautiful environment. It also suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, private experience rather than a crowded tour, and who are comfortable with basic safety and weather considerations.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear? No, all rods, reels, bait, and lures are provided on board, so you just need to show up ready to fish.

Can I book a half-day or full-day trip? Yes, you can choose between a 4-5 hour inshore trip or an 8-10 hour offshore tuna fishing adventure.

Are there any age restrictions? Small children and infants are not suitable for this trip, especially for offshore excursions.

What should I bring on the trip? Pack a hat, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, food, and drinks. Remember that fishing licenses can be arranged beforehand if needed.

Is the trip weather-dependent? Yes, trips depend on favorable weather conditions. Your skipper will confirm or suggest rescheduling if necessary.

How many people can join the private charter? Up to 5 guests can join, making it intimate and ideal for small groups.

What if I don’t have a fishing license? Licenses can be arranged prior to departure on your behalf, so you don’t need to worry about that.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Your skipper will be in contact to confirm details.

Final thoughts

For anyone eager to combine scenic beauty with the thrill of fishing, Simon’s Town’s private charter offers a well-rounded, personalized experience. It balances the convenience of all gear included with the expertise of seasoned guides, making it accessible whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced angler. The private nature of the trip means you can tailor your day and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean without the noise of a large group.

The trip’s real strength lies in its flexibility and setting—fishing in the waters off Cape Town offers a uniquely spectacular backdrop, and the chance to land local species makes it a rewarding outing. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a quiet, guided day at sea, with a good mix of fun, scenery, and the possibility of catching dinner.

If you’re looking for an activity that’s both adventurous and relaxed, and offers a genuine taste of Cape Town’s marine environment, this private fishing charter is definitely worth considering.

References and similar experiences

• Big Five Game Reserve with Lunch
• Fly Fishing in Cape Town
• Cape Town Wine Tram
• Robben Island Prison Tour
• Cape Town Safari and Game Drive

Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic outing, or just a chance to experience Cape Town’s waters from a new perspective, this fishing charter offers a straightforward, value-packed way to enjoy the sea. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a camera to capture the stunning scenery!

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby