Featherbed Nature Reserve, Western Cape, South Africa

Featherbed Nature Reserve offers luxury cruises on the Knysna Lagoon.

Picture Gallery
Featherbed Private Nature Reserve lies on the unspoiled Western Head of Knysna, one of South Africa's Natural Heritage Sites that can only be reached by ferry.
Located near the Knysna Heads in the Knysna Lagoon, South Africa.
Visitors are walking along the Knysna Lagoon, Garden Route, South Africa.
Abseiling in the sea caves at Featherbed Nature Reserve.

  • Enjoy stunning views of the Knysna Heads on luxury cruises or ferry rides
  • See rare creatures that live in Featherbed Private Nature Reserve
  • Visit ancient Khoi-Khoi sea caves and dine under Milkwood Trees
  • Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa is situated on the Garden Route


  • Featherbed Private Nature Reserve offers a pristine nature and dining experience at the gateway to the sea on Knysna Lagoon, Garden Route, South Africa. Associated attractions include Paddle Steamer and Lagoon Cruises, Sailing adventures and superb meals at a venue on the waters edge.

    The unspoiled Western Head of Knysna is one of two sentinels that stand between the tranquil estuary water of the lagoon and the surge of sea water from the Indian Ocean. Home to the famous Knysna Loerie, the rare Knysna Sea Horse and the Blue Duiker. Featherbed Private Nature Reserve occupies 150 hectares on the Western Head.

    Features of Featherbed Private Nature Reserve

    Within the Featherbed Company there are a variety of options to enjoy. The bouquet of attractions offers individuals, groups, executives and wedding guests an unforgettable experience on the Knysna Lagoon. There are a number of choices for weddings and functions whether in the Featherbed Nature Reserve, on the Paddle Steamer or on the deck of the Cruise Café. The reserve offers a private beach setting and under ancient Milkwood trees at the Forest Restaurant.

    Featherbed Eco-Experience

    This is a very popular Featherbed Private Nature Reserve adventure which includes ferry rides, headland transfers, guided talks, and an optional guided hike followed by a sumptuous meal at the Forest Restaurant.

    Forest Restaurant

    Within the reserve, this restaurant can only be accessed by boat - guests can arrange this themselves or take the Featherbed Eco-Experience. Spectacular buffets are served overlooking the Knysna Lagoon under a canopy of Milkwood Trees.

    Additional attractions

    Cruise Café

    This acclaimed restaurant is situated in Remembrance Avenue on the edge of the Knysna Lagoon. Visitors enjoy exceptional views from its double volume glass doors and wooden deck. This sophisticated yet relaxed venue offers speciality coffees, delightful breakfasts, healthy lunches, fine dining and classy cocktails.

    The Paddle Cruiser

    This is the only vessel of its type in South Africa. It is fully enclosed with a bar on each deck and has 360 degree views. Whilst cruising to the Knysna Heads, guests enjoy delicious meals at lunch time or at the end of the day during a magical sunset cruise.

    The John Benn

    The beautifully appointed John Benn is Knysna's only luxury pleasure cruiser. This floating restaurant offers daily cruises to the Knysna Heads on lunchtime and sunset excursions. The historic John Benn is fully enclosed and has a bar on each level. Guests can experience fabulous views in every direction whilst enjoying great food.

    Three Legs Rivercat

    For those short of time, Three Legs has a shorter journey time and departs regularly. This is an open ferry with sun deck and shaded seating so guests can enjoy the sun and sea breeze. The Rivercat is one of the most advanced ferries ever built. This is a fun and adventurous cruise to and within the Knysna Heads. Drinks and snacks can be purchased on board.

    Knysna Heads Explorer

    For those who love the excitement of being close to the water and having the wind in their hair, this sunset sailing adventure is a must. Guests can enjoy a romantic meal with wine while the experienced skipper steers the craft. The Heads Explorer is an exclusive catamaran yacht that journeys to the Heads and onto the Indian Ocean.

    Located near the Knysna Heads in the Knysna Lagoon, South Africa.
    accommodation


    Visitors are walking along the Knysna Lagoon, Garden Route, South Africa.
    location


    Abseiling in the sea caves at Featherbed Nature Reserve.
    activities



    Provisional Reservation System
    Please note that all steps marked with a * must be completed for your provisional reservation to be processed!
    Staying at   Featherbed Reserve
    Step 1* Choose Accommodation Type.
    Excursion - Max People: 55
    Step 2* Please indicate the number of adults and the number of children below.
      adults children under 12
    Step 3* Choose accommodation start date and the number of nights you intend staying for below.
      Start date nights
    If you are sure all steps marked with a * are complete please