Spend the Day at Durban’s Harbour

Whenever you think of Durban, your mind races to the ocean waves and warm sands that line the coast and keep tourists returning to this east coast city every year. But, let's not forget that Durban is home to the 2nd largest container port on the continent and the busiest port in the whole of South Africa.

Just a short drive down the coast from Sibaya Casino and Entertainment World, you'll find this bustling harbour that's become a Durban tourist attraction in its own right.

Cargo Services

Officially established during the 1800s, this 21kilometre port now has almost 60 berths, operated by more than 20 terminal operators. Durban's harbour sees more than 4 500 commercial vessels dock or call in at the port each year, while the recently expanded car terminal can manage up to 60 000 vehicles in transit every year. A fleet of tugs are on hand to help larger ships navigate into the harbour berths and two huge floating cranes help lift cargo from ships and onto the docks.

Passenger Terminal

But it is not just cargo ships that stop in at Durban harbour every day. A number of cruise ships stop in to collect passengers for journeys along the coastline. The well-equipped passenger terminal is most busy during the summer months, when the demand for cruise ships is highest. There are apparently plans afoot to create an even bigger passenger terminal near the Point Waterfront in the future.

Yacht Clubs

You'll also find a number of private yachts and small ships docked in the marina near to Wilson's Wharf, which are watched over by the Point Yacht Club and Royal Natal Yacht Club. Durban locals will insist you pop in and enjoy a meal or a quiet drink at these yacht clubs. Listen to them!

Wilson's Wharf

If you'd like to spend the afternoon watching ships come in and listen to the seagulls at play, then spend a little time at Wilson's Wharf. This waterfront marketplace gets very bust over the holiday seasons, as locals and visitors pop in to peruse the wares on sale at the indoor craft market and specialty stores.

Most people pop down to Wilson's Wharf for lunch, and settle in for a lazy afternoon with family and friends. But if you're looking for an evening of entertainment, you could book your tickets for the next Catalina Theatre show. Established in 2002, this family-friendly theatre venue plays host to a variety of shows, artists and musicians throughout the year.

Harbour Cruises

Perhaps you'd like to step off the docks and take a cruise around Durban's harbour? That's easy. The Allen Gardiner Harbour Cruise takes you on a tour around the harbour will treating you to a delicious meal and filling you in on interesting facts about the city of Durban. The Isle of Capri sailboats will also take you on a smooth and soothing harbour cruise that'll take you right close to one of the monolithic ships in the port.

For the Ultimate Night Out

A recent addition to the Durban nightlife, La Vue is a five-star floating restaurant that takes you on an evening cruise through the harbour that features a fascinating look at Durban's metropolitan skyline and the landmarks that make the city such a popular tourist destination. It's also an incredible conference or meeting venue! Locals are reporting in that La Vue is the new favourite date night venue, so, what are you waiting for?