Wilson's Wharf sits on Durban's Victoria Embankment, at the edge of the working harbour. It has a small marina, cafés, restaurants, craft shops and market stalls. Boats pass close to the tables, from luxury yachts and racing boats to trawlers and tankers, so it suits anyone curious about the port at work. Boat rides run from the harbour and show the water and the city skyline. Eat seafood, try the fusion and curry dishes served along the waterfront, and stay for dusk, when the city lights reflect off the water.
The harbour from the water
Boat rides from Wilson's Wharf take you out onto Durban's harbour. Along the way you see luxury yachts, racing boats, tankers, trawlers and small optimist sailing boats.
The container port itself is closed to the public, but the view from here shows how busy the harbour is. Some container ships wait weeks for a berth, and you can see them lined up at sea.
Boat rides have been listed from R100 each, so confirm the current fare with the operator before you go.
Eating and drinking along the marina
Seafood is the main draw. The Oyster Bar is known for its seafood platter, and the restaurants also serve fresh fish and fusion dishes. Curries are popular here too.
Several outdoor pubs let you eat with a view of the yachts and the working slipways. The Mozambique sits at the far end of the complex, close to the water, and is a good choice if you want to be near the edge.
For breakfast, there is more than one place to choose from.
Shops, markets and the port at dusk
Craft shops and market stalls line the complex, so you can browse for South African crafts before or after a meal. Many locals come here for after-work drinks.
The Sugar Terminal lies close by, and the Maydon Wharf area runs along the southwestern side of the harbour beyond it. Dusk is the best time to watch the sun set over the bay. Once it is dark, the lights of the city and the flickering reflections on the water make the harbour look its most atmospheric.
Practical notes
Wilson's Wharf is on Boatmans Road in Albert Park, Durban. There is on-site parking, along with free and paid parking lots and free street parking.
The entrance, seating, restroom and parking lot are all wheelchair accessible.
Some visitors have found the public toilets without soap, so carry your own hand sanitiser.
FAQ
What can you do at Wilson's Wharf?
You can take a boat ride, eat seafood or other meals beside the water, browse craft shops and market stalls, and watch the harbour traffic.
Is there parking at Wilson's Wharf?
Yes. The site has on-site parking, free and paid parking lots, and free street parking. There is also a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Is Wilson's Wharf good for sunset?
Yes. Dusk is the best time to see the sun set over the bay, followed by the city lights reflecting on the harbour water.
Do boat rides fill up?
Boat slots can fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day is the safer choice.
Is Wilson's Wharf wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, seating, restroom and parking lot are all listed as wheelchair accessible.
