Port Owen, a man-made marina in the small fishing town of Velddrif, is one of the West Coast’s best-kept secrets. Just 145 km from Cape Town, this tranquil spot offers a unique blend of local charm, outdoor adventure, and incredible craft beer and gin experiences. Known as the “bokkom capital” of the world, Velddrif is famous for its West Coast delicacy—bokkoms, a salted and dried harder fish that’s sold straight from Bokkomlaan. But there’s more to this little town than just its seafood. Port Owen, with its stunning marina, yacht club, and vibrant craft scene, is the perfect stop for Beer Troopers.
A Walk Along Bokkomlaan
Start your journey by strolling down Velddrif’s famous Bokkomlaan. This historic road is lined with fishermen selling bokkoms from stalls, shops, and even their homes. Here, you can meet the locals, learn about the traditional process of making this iconic West Coast treat, and sample some fresh bokkoms. It’s an authentic taste of the West Coast’s fishing heritage, and a must-do experience for anyone visiting Velddrif.
Port Owen: A Marina Paradise
Port Owen is exactly what its name suggests—a port town with a beautiful marina and yacht club. The town is hugged by the Berg River, which curls around two sides of the marina and feeds a 3.5 km network of canals. These sheltered waterways are perfect for kayaking, offering peaceful paddling routes that wind through the heart of Port Owen. If you prefer a more leisurely adventure, take a walk along the embankment to soak in the tranquil marina views and enjoy the sights of yachts moored along the canals.
Charlie’s Brewhouse – A West Coast Craft Beer Haven
As you explore the embankment, you’ll come across Charlie’s Brewhouse, a beloved pub-restaurant in Port Owen. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a cold craft beer, Charlie’s has you covered. This West Coast gem offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Their selection of craft beers is brewed on-site, making it a great spot for Beer Troopers to sample some local brews while enjoying the stunning views of the marina. The combination of good food, great beer, and friendly locals makes Charlie’s a must-visit during your Port Owen adventure.
Poetic License Distillery – Gin with a Twist
For gin lovers, Poetic License Distillery is an exciting new addition to Port Owen’s craft scene. This small-batch distillery offers a unique gin-tasting experience right on the Cape West Coast. Step inside their distillery for a tour and discover the art of gin-making, from the selection of botanicals to the distillation process itself. Poetic License prides itself on crafting gins that reflect the wild beauty of the West Coast, and their tasting room offers a variety of gin pairing experiences that will delight your palate.
After the tour, head over to their retail area to grab a bottle of your favourite gin to take home, or sit back and enjoy a gin cocktail overlooking the marina. Poetic License is quickly becoming a must-see stop for those exploring the West Coast’s craft spirit scene.
Adventure Awaits in Port Owen
With its calm waters, winding canals, and vibrant craft beer and gin offerings, Port Owen is the perfect destination for a laid-back West Coast getaway. Whether you’re kayaking along the Berg River, enjoying a cold beer at Charlie’s Brewhouse, or sipping gin at Poetic License Distillery, this hidden gem has something for everyone.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a coastal adventure, add Port Owen to your Beer Troopy journey. Don’t forget to pack your Beer Passport to collect stamps and rewards as you discover this slice of West Coast paradise!