There is something delightfully old fashioned about travelling by ferry, writes Miriam Kimvangu.
Ilala on Lake Malawi/Davidktorza/Wikimedia Commons
In an age of budget airlines, high speed highways and GPS-planned road trips, ferries feel almost romantic. They force you to slow down, step onto the deck and pay attention to the landscapes unfolding around you. Instead of rushing through a journey, the crossing becomes part of the adventure itself.
If you are looking to add a little novelty to your next trip, these are some of Southern Africa’s most beautiful ferry crossings worth trying.
The ferry to Inhaca Island, Mozambique
Just off the coast of Maputo lies Inhaca Island, a tropical escape known for its coral reefs, sandy beaches and laid back atmosphere. The ferry journey from Maputo across the bay is part of the charm. As the city skyline slowly fades into the distance, the waters of Maputo Bay open up into sweeping blue expanses dotted with fishing boats and seabirds. Depending on the season, passengers may even spot dolphins along the way.
The crossing takes around two to three hours depending on conditions and the vessel used. While there are faster boats available, taking the ferry offers a gentler introduction to island life. Travellers arrive feeling as though they have genuinely journeyed somewhere different, rather than simply ticking off another destination. Once on Inhaca Island, expect fresh seafood, dune forests and long stretches of untouched coastline.
The Kazungula Ferry crossing between Zambia and Botswana
Before the Kazungula Bridge officially opened, the Kazungula Ferry was one of the most famous river crossings in Southern Africa. Although the bridge now handles much of the traffic between Botswana and Zambia, ferry crossings still hold a certain legendary status among overlanders and regional travellers. The crossing takes place on the mighty Zambezi River near the meeting point of four countries: Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia. The surrounding scenery is classic safari country, with wide riverbanks, birdlife and the possibility of spotting hippos or elephants nearby. For decades, crossing Kazungula by ferry symbolised the spirit of African road travel. While modern infrastructure has changed the experience somewhat, the area still evokes the nostalgia of adventurous journeys across Southern Africa.
The Breede River ferry at Malgas, South Africa
Hidden in the Western Cape countryside near Malgas is one of South Africa’s last remaining hand operated river ferries. The Malgas pont is not flashy or fast, but that is precisely why travellers love it. Declared a national monument, the ferry crosses the Breede River using nothing more than human power and old world engineering. Vehicles and passengers are slowly guided across the water while birds circle overhead and reeds sway along the banks. The crossing only takes a few minutes, but it feels like stepping back in time. It is especially popular among road trippers exploring the Overberg region or heading toward the De Hoop Nature Reserve.
The ferry to Likoma Island, Malawi
One of Lake Malawi’s most iconic travel experiences is boarding the Ilala ferry to Likoma Island. The vessel has been operating on the lake for decades and has become something of a legend among backpackers and adventurous travellers.
The journey is less about luxury and more about atmosphere. Passengers share deck space with locals, traders and fellow travellers while the vast freshwater lake stretches endlessly in every direction.
Likoma Island itself feels wonderfully removed from the modern rush. Despite belonging to Malawi, the island sits closer to Mozambique and is known for its quiet beaches, giant baobab trees and impressive cathedral.
Travelling there by ferry transforms the destination into an experience rather than simply a stop on a map.
The Knysna lagoon ferry experience, South Africa
While not a traditional transport ferry, boat crossings on the Knysna Lagoon in the Garden Route remain one of the region’s most scenic water experiences. Cruising across the lagoon toward the famous Knysna Heads offers spectacular views of forests, sandstone cliffs and calm estuary waters. Several operators provide ferry style crossings and lagoon cruises that allow visitors to appreciate the town from a completely different perspective.
Sunset trips are particularly beautiful, with golden light reflecting across the water while seabirds glide overhead. It is an easy reminder that slower travel often reveals details many travellers miss when driving straight through a destination.
The ferry to Chiloane Island, Mozambique
For travellers seeking something far more remote, Chiloane Island off Mozambique’s coast offers an off the beaten track ferry experience. Reaching the island involves crossing mangrove lined channels and open coastal waters by local ferry or dhow style boats. The journey itself feels adventurous, especially for travellers accustomed to more conventional forms of transport. Fishermen move between villages, supplies are transported by boat and the crossing offers a glimpse into daily coastal life.
The island remains relatively undeveloped compared to some of Mozambique’s better known beach destinations, making it ideal for travellers who value solitude and authenticity.
Why ferry travel deserves a comeback
Part of the appeal of ferry travel is that it restores a sense of transition between places. Flights compress geography while highways encourage travellers to rush from point A to point B. Ferries, however, force people to engage with the landscape, weather and water around them. They also offer a more social style of travel. Conversations happen more naturally on decks and docks than they do in airport queues. Travellers share stories, watch scenery together and arrive with a stronger sense of connection to the journey itself.
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