Port Alfred - Houseboat Charters

Chart Your Course: Self-Drive Houseboat Adventure on the Kowie River

Take the helm and explore the peaceful beauty of the Eastern Cape’s Kowie River on a self-drive Leisure Liner houseboat. Starting from the Royal Alfred Marina in the charming coastal town of Port Alfred, this easy-to-operate boat gives you the freedom to cruise at your own pace, with no skipper’s license required.

Your journey begins in the calm, tidal waters of the marina before heading upstream into the heart of the Kowie Nature Reserve. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush riverbanks teeming with birdlife, dense indigenous vegetation, and the occasional glimpse of shy wildlife coming to the water's edge. With the river winding gently inland, it’s the perfect place for relaxed exploration — ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

Leisure Liner houseboats are compact but fully equipped, offering sleeping quarters, a kitchenette, a bathroom, and a sundeck where you can soak up the views, cast a fishing line, or simply unwind with a drink in hand. Each evening, you’ll anchor at quiet, secluded spots where the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle flow of the river.

Located about halfway between Port Elizabeth and East London, Port Alfred is easily accessible and makes a fantastic starting point for this unique adventure. It’s a chance to unplug, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasure of drifting through a serene, protected environment — entirely on your own terms.