Cross Table Bay from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island for a guided prison tour that includes meeting an ex-political prisoner and seeing Nelson Mandela’s cell. This skip-the-line ticket saves time but the ferry is weather-dependent — arrive 30 minutes early with ID.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Step onto the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront and feel the Atlantic push you toward a small, flat island that once held the country’s harshest political sentences.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks and standing during talks
Wildlife
History
Robben Island served as a site of imprisonment for political leaders during apartheid, most famously holding Nelson Mandela for 18 years; it also functioned historically as a leper colony and military installation.
Conservation
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—visitors should follow marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife and support the museum’s preservation efforts.
Reserve your spot on the Robben Island Ferry and Prison Tour Skip the Line Foreign Ticket today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring ID and ticket copy
You must present your passport copy and ticket on arrival at the Nelson Mandela Gateway; have them ready on your phone or printed.
Dress for wind and sun
Table Bay can be windy and cool even on sunny days; a windproof layer and sun protection keep the 30-minute ferry and outdoor stops comfortable.
Expect uneven surfaces
Walks on the island include short, uneven sections and gravel; wear closed-toe shoes and limit mobility assumptions.
Plan for limited facilities
Restrooms and a small museum are available, but food and extensive services are limited—bring water and snacks if you may need them after the tour.
Passport or passport copy
Required for entry verification—keep a digital copy accessible on your phone.
Windproof jacket
Protects against strong Table Bay winds during the ferry crossing and outdoor stops.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Useful for gravel paths, steps and short walks around the prison precinct.
Camera or phone with extra battery
For photographs of the island and museum exhibits—respect guide instructions in restricted areas.