Cape Town: Robben Island Ferry Ticket With Guided Tour

Robben Island holds a significant place in South Africa’s history, and exploring it provides a unique opportunity to explore the country’s past. The "Robben Island Ferry Ticket With Guided Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive experience, combining a ferry ride and a guided tour that showcases the island’s rich heritage. From Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell to the leprosy graveyard, this tour promises to offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of those who endured the hardships of Apartheid. With stunning views of Table Mountain and the chance to hear firsthand accounts from former political prisoners, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this remarkable journey.

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

Good To Know

• The Robben Island tour includes a 4-hour experience with a 30-minute ferry ride and a guided tour by former political prisoners.
• Significant sites on the tour include Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, and the maximum security prison.
• The tour is priced from $79.60 per person and is accessible to wheelchair users, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour provides comprehensive historical context and insights into life during the Apartheid era from the perspective of former political prisoners.
• The ferry departs from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, and the tour is not recommended for individuals prone to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Robben Island ferry ticket with guided tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich history.

This 4-hour experience includes a 30-minute ferry ride to the island and a guided tour, with insights from former political prisoners about life during Apartheid.

The tour covers significant sites, such as Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell, the leprosy graveyard, and the maximum security prison.

Priced from $79.60 per person, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users and conducted in English.

Visitors are advised to bring a jacket and comfortable clothes, as the tour may not be suitable for those prone to seasickness.

Booking Information

Booking for the Robben Island ferry ticket with guided tour can be made through an online platform, allowing visitors to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

The meeting point is at the V&A Waterfront, next to the Clocktower, which serves as the gateway to Robben Island. This convenient location makes it easy for visitors to find the starting point of the tour.

Booking in advance is recommended, as spots may be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Key Highlights

A ferry ride to Robben Island transports visitors on a 30-minute journey to explore the island’s rich history. Upon arrival, the tour highlights include visiting Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell and gaining insights from a former political prisoner about life during Apartheid. Visitors will also see other significant sites, such as the leprosy graveyard, Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe’s house, and the maximum security prison.

Key Highlights
Ferry ride to Robben Island	30 minutes
Tour of Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell
Insights from a former political prisoner	About life during Apartheid
Visit significant sites	Leprosy graveyard, Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe’s house, maximum security prison

What’s Included

This Robben Island ferry ticket and guided tour package includes several key amenities to enhance the experience.

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cape Town, ensuring a seamless start and end to the journey. During the tour, guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable live guide who’ll provide insights into the island’s history and significance.

The ferry ticket grants access to the island, as well as a comprehensive tour of the former prison, including Nelson Mandela’s cell. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore other notable sites such as the leprosy graveyard and Robert Sobukwe’s house.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness.

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Important Considerations

When planning this Robben Island excursion, visitors should be aware of several important considerations.

First and foremost, individuals prone to seasickness may want to reconsider this activity, as the ferry ride can be unpredictable.

It’s crucial to bring a valid passport or ID card, as well as appropriate clothing like a jacket for the chilly conditions on the island.

Visitors should also note the overall customer rating of 2/5 based on a single review, which may indicate potential issues to consider.

Visitor Reviews

Based on the single customer review provided, visitors have expressed a relatively low overall rating of 2 out of 5 for this Robben Island ferry and guided tour experience.

While the tour provides an opportunity to explore the island’s history and Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell, the overall feedback suggests room for improvement in various aspects of the tour.

Visitors may expect a more engaging and comprehensive experience given the historical significance of the site. The tour’s accessibility and value for money may also be factors contributing to the low rating.

Ultimately, with only one review available, more feedback would be needed to fully assess visitor satisfaction with this tour.

Getting to Robben Island

Reaching Robben Island is a straightforward process for visitors. The ferry departs from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, conveniently located next to the Clocktower.

Visitors should arrive at the meeting point about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes each way, providing stunning views of Table Mountain and the surrounding waterfront.

Visitors with accessibility needs can rest assured that the ferry is wheelchair accessible. During the crossing, passengers may want to be mindful of potential seasickness, as the ferry can encounter choppy waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ferry Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The Robben Island ferry is wheelchair accessible. The tour provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities, according to the information provided in the Knowledge section under the "Accessibility" and "Inclusions" details.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes and bring a jacket. Visitors should dress for the weather and ferry ride, as the tour involves outdoor sites on Robben Island.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Robben Island tour. The tour is open to all ages, making it suitable for families and groups of any composition.

Can I Purchase Photos or Souvenirs on the Island?

Yes, visitors can purchase photos and souvenirs on Robben Island. The island’s gift shop offers a range of commemorative items and photographs from the tour to help visitors remember their experience.

Are There Any Food or Beverage Options Available on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, no food or beverage options are mentioned as being included in the experience. Visitors may want to bring their own snacks and drinks for the ferry ride and tour of the island.

The Sum Up

The Robben Island Ferry Ticket with Guided Tour offers a compelling way to explore Cape Town’s rich history. Visitors can expect a 4-hour experience, including a ferry ride, guided tour of significant sites, and insights from former political prisoners. This accessible tour provides hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and stunning views of Table Mountain, making it a must-do activity for those interested in South Africa’s past.

You can check availability for your dates here: