Table Bay Sunset Champagne Cruise

Cape Town is one of the world's great sunset cities, and the easiest way to see one properly is from the water. The Sunset Champagne Cruise from Cape Town is a sailing outing of about an hour and a half on Table Bay, with sparkling wine on board, in the hours when the light turns gold and then pink across the Atlantic. The bay has the best vantage point in the city: Table Mountain, Lion's Head and Signal Hill form a long skyline to the south, the sun sinks into the sea to the west, and the harbour and city lights begin to appear as the sky darkens. The experience is relaxed and sociable rather than adventurous, a good way to end a day of sightseeing, and the booking page carries an average of 4.2 from more than 400 guest ratings, which is solid for a mass-market cruise and tells you what to expect: a pleasant trip rather than a luxury charter. Sailing conditions matter, and the wind that makes the bay beautiful for sailing can also make it bumpy, so choose a calm evening if you can. The booking page gives the details of the departure point and the exact time that the boat leaves, which varies through the year as sunset moves.

Timing and the season. Sunset in Cape Town moves a lot through the year, from late afternoon in winter to well into the evening in midsummer, so the cruise time shifts with it. In summer the south-easter often blows in the afternoon and dies down toward evening, which can make late departures calmer.

In winter the evening air is cold and the sea can be rough, so dress in layers and a windproof jacket whatever the season. Operators may cancel or change the cruise for weather, and the booking page is the place to check the refund terms and what happens if the sunset is hidden by cloud.

What is on board. The cruise includes sparkling wine, and the booking page describes a sailing cruise. Check what other drinks and snacks are available and whether they are included, and whether the boat has a toilet and shaded and sheltered seating. The group is usually mixed, with couples, friends and families on holiday, and the mood is convivial.

Children are generally welcome, but check the operator's rules on age and alcohol. Photographers should arrive early to claim a seat on the sunset side of the boat and bring a jacket for the return, when the wind chills the deck.

Who it suits. The cruise is a good choice for couples, small groups of friends, a birthday or an anniversary, and for visitors who want one easy, scenic activity in the evening without a long drive. It also suits those who cannot manage steep hikes but still want to see Table Mountain at its best, when it glows in the last light. If you want a more active way onto the water, the sea kayak tour from Granger Bay is a livelier option, and the Hout Bay seal cruise is a better wildlife outing.

If you prefer to pair the cruise with dinner, the V&A Waterfront has a large choice of restaurants nearby, though you should book a table before the cruise so that you are not queuing in the dark.