Welcome to Ocean Odyssey Knysna
Your Gateway to the Marine Life of the Garden Route
At Ocean Odyssey Knysna, we are passionate about sharing the beauty and wonder of the marine life of the Garden Route with you. As a leading marine tourism operator based in Knysna, South Africa, we offer a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the ocean and its inhabitants along the stunning Garden Route coastline.
Our Story
Our journey began with our sister company, Springtide Sailing Charters, which was founded by Evelyn and Steff, our dynamic duo. With years of experience and a passion for the ocean, they successfully grew Springtide into a reputable and popular sailing charter operator. In 2010, they saw an opportunity to expand their offerings and purchased Ocean Odyssey Knysna, which was originally founded in 1996. They brought their expertise and enthusiasm to the company and transformed it into the successful tourism operator it is today.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience for our customers while promoting the conservation and appreciation of our marine ecosystem. We are dedicated to sharing our knowledge of the marine life and ensuring that our customers have a memorable and enriching experience.
Our Vessels
Our fleet consists of two vessels, each with its own unique character and charm:
- Odysseus: Our flagship vessel, named after the legendary Greek hero, is a comfortable and stable butt cat vessel perfect for exploring the ocean and its inhabitants. With a seating capacity of 25 passengers, Odysseus offers an intimate and personalized experience.
- Oyster Catcher: Our sleek and agile vessel, named after the iconic African bird, is ideal for navigating the open waters and exploring the marine life of the Garden Route. With a seating capacity of 12 passengers, Oyster Catcher provides a more exclusive and personalized experience.
Our Services We Offer:
- Close Encounter Whale Watching (June to November)
- Marine Eco-Tours (December to May)
- Knysna Heads Adventures
- Stand Up Paddling (SUP)
- Kayaking
The Garden Route Coastline
Our tours take you along the stunning Garden Route coastline, known for its natural beauty and iconic features. We are privileged to be a part of the humpback whale migration route, as noted by the late Professor Peter Best. In fact, Knysna is the first point of contact for the humpback whale migration to the South African coastline, making our tours a unique and unforgettable experience. Our tours offer an array of marine life, including:
- Humpback Whales
- Southern Right Whales
- Dolphins – Bottlenose, Common and Humpback
- Cape Fur Seals
- Seabirds
Spotter on the Hill
During our whale watching season (June to November), we have a dedicated spotter on the hill who assists our vessels and directs them to sightings on the ocean. Please note that while we do our best to maximize your chances of spotting marine life, there is no guarantee of sightings as we are viewing marine life in their natural environment.
Our Team
Our team is comprised of experienced and knowledgeable crew members, including skippers and guides. We are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our customers and are passionate about sharing our knowledge of the marine ecosystem.
Our Coffee Shop – Odyssey Café
Our coffee shop, Odyssey Café, has a street-style cafe setting with a great vibe and beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxing and unwinding before or after your tour. Enjoy a cup of Lavazza coffee and indulge in our home-baked cakes and delicious savouries.
Retail Therapy
Visit our retail therapy area for a wide range of ocean-inspired gifts and souvenirs. From beautiful marine-life themed clothing and accessories to unique decorative items and local artwork, we have something for everyone. Our branded merchandise includes hoodies, caps, t-shirts, and much more, perfect for remembering your unforgettable experience with Ocean Odyssey Knysna.
Join Us
Join us for an unforgettable experience on the ocean and discover the beauty and wonder of the marine life of the Garden Route. Contact us to book your tour today and let’s explore the ocean together!