Robben Island lies offshore from Cape Town, and the ferries leave from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront. The island held political prisoners, Nelson Mandela among them. The visit has three parts: the boat crossing, a bus drive around the island with a guide, and a walk through the maximum security prison led by a former prisoner. Hearing those former prisoners describe their own years on the island is what makes the half day stay with people.
Getting to the island
Ferries leave from the Nelson Mandela Gateway in the Clock Tower Precinct at the V&A Waterfront. The crossing takes about 30 to 35 minutes each way.
Boarding lines can be long, and the boats are busy. The air conditioning inside can get quite cold, and the open deck is windy, so bring a layer you can keep on.
The bus tour
Once on the island, a bus takes you around for about 30 minutes while a guide talks about the island and daily life there. The route includes a stop at the quarry, but you stay on the bus there and do not get off.
The bus tour sets the scene before you reach the prison, so it helps to pay attention to the stories as well as the views.
The prison tour
The prison section is led by a former prisoner who walks you through the maximum security prison. You see the cell where Nelson Mandela was held, the bed he slept on, the food prisoners were given and the work they were made to do.
The exhibitions are covered quickly. Decide in advance which displays you most want to read, and use the time at them well. The tour includes one or two stops for snacks and drinks, and there are some good photo spots.
The island's history
Before it became a place to send political prisoners, the island was used to host people with leprosy. The island's history covers both periods, and the tour explains how prisoners were treated and what they went through at the hands of their captors.
The visit suits people who want to understand this history in detail, rather than those who only want a short sightseeing stop.
FAQ
How long is the ferry crossing?
The boat ride takes about 30 to 35 minutes each way. The bus tour on the island lasts about 30 minutes.
How long do you need for the Robben Island tour?
Plan for about half a day. The trip includes the ferry both ways, the bus tour and the prison tour with a former prisoner.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, and tickets are sold online. Tours run every couple of hours from 9am.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restrooms and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so check whether that suits you before you book.
