Cape Town is setting a new benchmark in sustainable tourism with the introduction of its first fully electric sightseeing boat at the V&A Waterfront.
Image for illustrative purposes / Julia Fiander / Unsplash
Operated by City Sightseeing, the vessel is a milestone in the city’s drive toward cleaner, quieter, more environmentally friendly visitor experiences.
According to reports by Southern Africa’s Travel News, the sleek boat is capable of carrying 32 passengers and is docked outside the One&Only Hotel at the V&A Waterfront. It offers both scenic canal cruises and a transport service that links the waterfront precinct with the city’s Central Business District (CBD), including stops like the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Designed with comfort and environmental impact in mind, the electric boat runs silently, emits no pollutants, and minimizes vibration—a clear contrast to traditional fuel-powered vessels.
This launch builds on earlier sustainability efforts in the precinct. In December 2024, the V&A Waterfront introduced the “Green Cab,” an electric shuttle service, as part of its commitment to reducing emissions and expanding its green transport options.
City officials view the electric boat as more than just a touristic novelty. It fits into broader urban sustainability and mobility plans by offering an alternative to land-based transport, cutting down on both air pollution and noise, and promoting Cape Town as a destination committed to responsible tourism.
As global travellers increasingly seek destinations that prioritise sustainability, Cape Town’s new electric boat strengthens its appeal. It exemplifies how innovation, when paired with environmental awareness, can enhance the visitor experience while protecting the local environment.
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