Board the ferry from Cape Town for a sobering, informative Robben Island museum visit, then unwind among the vineyards and gardens of the Winelands. This full-day tour pairs history with tastings and landscaped walks.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A salt-sprung breeze lifts off Table Bay as the ferry slips away from the V&A Waterfront, the city shrinking into a lattice of roofs while Table Mountain looms like a map in stone. On Robben Island the wind does the talking: it pushes past the quarry walls and across the compounds where quiet corridors recall long years of confinement.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes multiple short walks and standing museum tours
Wildlife
History
Robben Island served as a leper colony, a political prison and a maritime landmark; its Prison Museum focuses on the apartheid era and notable inmates like Nelson Mandela.
Conservation
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site with conservation programs focused on historic preservation and protecting coastal bird habitats; visitors should stick to paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Robben Island Museum Stellenbosch Wineries Plus Ferry Ticket F/D today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prepare for ferry motion
Bring motion-sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness; the crossing can be choppy on windy days.
Sun and wind protection
Cape Town’s sun is strong and the island is exposed — wear SPF, a brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Comfortable, grippy shoes
Expect short walks on uneven prison paths, quay steps and garden trails — closed-toe, supportive shoes help.
Cash for extras
Tastings and meals at Spice Route and Babylonstoren may require payment beyond what’s included; bring a card or small cash.
Supportive walking shoes
Provides grip for quarry paths, cobbles and garden trails.
Windproof layer
Blocks cold sea breezes on the ferry and exposed island grounds.
winter
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects from strong austral sun during outdoor sections and vineyard tastings.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Refill with provided bottled water to stay hydrated across the day.