Thesen Island

A unique and true forest experience. Enjoy an exhilarating downhill on the Monster Mountain Scooter, descent through indigenous forest, sweepy bends and single track. A scenic minibus ride takes you into the heart of the forest to the best hills to start your descent in the Garden Route National Park. All of this while on the lookout for our local wild life, the majestic Knysna Loerie, the shy bushbuck and wild boar. Scooters are non motorized making this eco friendly. These Swiss designed scooters are used in the Alps during the summer season on the ski slopes when the snow is gone. All trips are guided by professional qualified guides. Children must be 9 years and older to ride on their own/solo. R600 Solo riders. R300 Passengers.

We offer scenic a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon aboard a vintage European Sloep boat. We embark at Thesen Island in Knysna for round trips to the Knysna Heads. Food and drinks are available from the Mane by the Sea restaurant before departure.

Observing whales in their natural environment leaves a feel-good mark on the soul- Knysna the best places to do this! As Knysna’s only permitted close encounter operator, our team is passionate about showcasing our prolific marine life and our incredibly picturesque & scenic coastline. Every year, both the Southern Right and the Humpback whales leave their icy feeding grounds off Antarctica and migrate to mate and calve in the warmer waters of our Southern African coastline. Knysna is one of the best whale watching destinations in the country. Knysna is blessed with year-round sightings – large pods of Dolphins and regular sightings of Brydes whales. From June through to November/December Knysna’s you can sight our incredible migrating whales, as our waters teem with Southern right and humpback whales and they skirt our coastline while making their way to the tropics.

This spectacular cruise takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of our rugged and beautiful coastline. Ocean Odyssey’s Heads adventure serves to highlight both the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment.  We show you the expansive estuary and then head into the Knysna Heads where you are able to see the impressive sandstone cliffs, the ancient caves and outcrops of this famous landmark.

Hire a kayak and explore the Knysna Lagoon from a unique perspective.'Take your time, stop at the beach,and catch some sunshine along the way!' Hire a kayak or an SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) in Knysna and head off to explore our pristine lagoon on your own schedule. Knysna Kayaking is great fun for the whole family, provided you can swim!

Explore the waterways of Thesen Island and the Knysna Estuary with the world’s fastest growing watersport, Stand-Up Paddling. Stand-Up Paddling, or SUP for short, is easy, fun and guaranteed to keep you fit whilst enjoying the spectacular scenery of our waterways & lagoon. The calm waters of Thesen Island are ideal for beginners and the many inlets and coves are perfect for the more adventurous or experience paddlers. Eight top quality boards and paddles are available for rent by the hour.

Experience an intimate journey on the tranquil waters of the Knysna Lagoon with our exclusive Romantic Cruises. Tailored for couples, these private cruises are designed to create unforgettable moments, whether you’re celebrating a proposal, engagement, anniversary, honeymoon, or simply indulging in a romantic escape. Our itinerary takes us from Thesen Islands down the main channel to the Knysna Heads and back.

Discover the beauty of the Knysna Lagoon from the comfort of our luxurious motor yacht. Departing from the iconic Thesen Island, we'll treat you to relaxing charter to Knysna Heads.

Your sail starts and end at Sirocco on Thesen Island. Sailing out into the beautiful waters of the Knysna lagoon or the Garden Route coastline, while sipping on a glass of ice cold Bubbly. The cruise will give you a close-up experience of the magnificent Knysna Heads and the Knysna estuary and you may encounter sightings of dolphins and whales along the way. An excursion through the Knysna Heads out to the Ocean is weather dependent, however if favourable we will sail out onto the Indian Ocean. On board your cruise you can choose to be as entertained as you wish and try your hand at fishing, dive straight off the boat, on warmer months enjoy swimming in the clear water, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy every moment. We also have SUPS on board which is a huge hit and lots of fun. A cash bar is available on board and snacks or oysters can be pre ordered.

Explore the Cape Winelands & the spectacular Garden Route. Join our awesome private / small group tour with overnight stays in Knysna, Oudtshoorn & Winelands. Visit Babylonstoren Gardens. Take a Cellar Tour and Lunch at the Green House Restaurant. Enjoy a wine/juice and a lunch platter along Route 62. Indulge in amazing Spa & Holistic Wellness Treatments. Soak away your aches and pains at the Montagu Mineral Hot Water Springs. Meals are strictly healthy & nutritious. Vegetarian or Vegan dishes available on request. Experience the spectacular Cango Caves and Ostriches. Stroll along pristine beaches with no other footprints Visit ancient forests where elusive wild elephants & leopards lurk in the shadows. See Giant Yellowwood trees at Natures Valley. The tour is conducted by an experienced chauffeur driver / guide. Luxury accommodation is in Guest Houses, Lodges or Villas and includes breakfasts. Also included are some Dinners, Lunches & entry fees to Activities / Attractions.