Robben Island holds a significant place in South Africa’s history, serving as both a political prison and a leper colony. The Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore this complex past. The tour includes a ferry ride and a guided exploration led by an ex-inmate, providing personal insights and a deeper understanding of the island’s role in the country’s struggle for freedom. Key sites, such as Nelson Mandela’s cell, offer an emotional and educational journey that delves into the poignant history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the true value of this experience lies in the powerful stories and perspectives shared by those who lived it.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Guided Tours In Cape Town.

Good To Know

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Good To Know

  • The Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour offers a 4-hour experience, including a 30-minute ferry ride and a guided tour by an ex-inmate.
  • The tour package provides access to significant sites on the island, such as Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, and the Lime Quarry.
  • The guided tour promises emotional and educational insights into Robben Island’s complex history as a prison for political dissenters and a leper colony.
  • Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and no upfront payment is required.
  • Visitors are advised to arrive 30 minutes before departure, bring valid ID, and wear comfortable clothing for the tour.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Tour Overview and Pricing

The Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour allows visitors to experience the island’s storied history.

Priced from $73.91 per person, the tour includes a 4-hour experience with a 30-minute ferry ride to and from the island.

Travelers can skip the ticketing line and enjoy a guided tour led by an ex-inmate, who shares first-hand accounts of the island’s past.

The tour covers significant sites such as Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, Lime Quarry, and Robert Sobukwe’s house.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and no upfront payment is required to reserve a spot.

Ferry Ride and Tour Experience

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Ferry Ride and Tour Experience

Travelers can skip the ticketing line and head straight to the ferry, where they’ll enjoy a 30-minute ride to Robben Island.

Once there, they’ll be guided by an ex-inmate who’ll share first-hand stories about the island’s history.

The tour includes visits to significant sites like Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, the Lime Quarry, and Robert Sobukwe’s house.

Inclusions and Meeting Point

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Inclusions and Meeting Point

Included in the tour package are the Robben Island ferry ticket, which allows travelers to skip the ticketing line, and the 30-minute ferry ride to and from the island.

Once on the island, visitors will have access to the Robben Island Museum and a guided tour led by an ex-inmate. The tour covers significant sites such as Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, the Lime Quarry, and Robert Sobukwe’s house.

Travelers should meet at the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time and bring a valid passport or ID card, as well as comfortable clothing and footwear.

Important Information and Requirements

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Important Information and Requirements

Visitors should bring their passport or ID card, as copies are accepted. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for the tour.

Parents or guardians must provide a valid ID for any children in their party.

Please note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included in the tour package.

It’s advised to arrive at the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Customers should be aware that tour cancellations due to weather conditions have been reported, though free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are available.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Customer Reviews and Ratings

The overall rating of the Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour is 3.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Customers have reported mixed experiences, with some mentioning cancellations due to weather conditions.

The reviewers include couples, friends, solo travelers, and families, providing a diverse perspective.

While some have enjoyed the first-hand stories from the ex-inmate guides and the opportunity to visit significant sites, others have expressed dissatisfaction with various aspects of the tour.

Exploring Robben Island’s History

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Exploring Robben Islands History

Robben Island’s storied past unveils a harrowing narrative that has profoundly shaped South Africa’s history.

Once a prison for political dissenters, the island served as a brutal penal colony, a leper colony, and a military base. It’s here that Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were incarcerated, enduring harsh conditions and hard labor.

The guided tour offers a firsthand account of these dark chapters, with ex-inmates sharing their personal experiences. Visitors can explore the limestone quarry, Mandela’s former cell, and other significant sites that bear witness to the island’s complex and turbulent past.

This powerful experience provides a deeper understanding of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.

Experience the Guided Tour

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Experience the Guided Tour

Embarking on the guided tour, visitors can expect an immersive experience that brings the island’s tumultuous past to life. Led by ex-inmates, the tour provides a unique opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of the island’s history. Visitors will explore significant sites, including Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, the Lime Quarry, and Robert Sobukwe’s house.

Site Significance
Nelson Mandela’s Cell Iconic symbol of the anti-apartheid struggle
Leprosy Graveyard Tragic reminder of the island’s history as a leper colony
Lime Quarry Site of hard labor endured by political prisoners
Robert Sobukwe’s House Home of a prominent anti-apartheid activist and leader

The guided tour offers a powerful and emotionally-charged experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Robben Island’s complex and influential history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Robben Island tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate in the guided tour, though they’ll need a valid ID to enter the island.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Ferry?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring food and drinks on the Robben Island ferry. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or recommendations prior to the tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. The guided portions involve walking and navigating uneven terrain. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any accessibility needs.

Is Photography Allowed During the Guided Tour?

Photography is allowed during the guided tour of Robben Island. Visitors can capture photos of the island’s significant sites, including Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, and the Lime Quarry, to commemorate their experience.

What Should I Expect to Learn on the Guided Tour?

On the guided tour, visitors can expect to learn first-hand accounts and stories about Robben Island’s history as a prison, including insights into Nelson Mandela’s incarceration and the experiences of other former inmates who lead the tours.

The Sum Up

Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket Plus Guided Tour - The Sum Up

Robben Island’s haunting past comes alive on this comprehensive tour. The ferry ride and guided exploration led by an ex-inmate provide a deeply personal and moving experience. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners, gaining profound insights into South Africa’s struggle for freedom. This tour offers an emotional and educational journey through a pivotal chapter in the country’s history.

You can check availability for your dates here: