Cape Town Travel Forum

I've been trying, unsuccessfully, to get specific information as to how to book a trip to Robben Island in advance of arriving in Cape Town (preferrably by email). I also want to know if the cost of a round trip ticket to the island includes a tour. There are apparently a number of tour companies that will prearrange this kind of trip but they seem very expensive. Is it possible to visit the island without booking with a tour company? If so, how?

You can buy tickets at Albert dock on the waterfront, however it can get booked up over a week in advance in high season.

Tickets are sold at R150 for adults and R75.00 for children aged 4-17 years. Children under 4 come free, but must be included in the booking. The three and a half hour tour includes a return trip across Table Bay, a visit to the Maximum Security Prison, interaction with an ex-political prisoner and a 45 minute bus tour with a guide providing commentary.


To book, contact:
Nelson Mandela Gateway:
Tel: (021) 413 4200
Fax: (021) 419 1057
e-mail: ebookings@robben-island.org.za

you do not need to use a tour company.

You asked the same thing 2 days ago, and the advice then was to e-mail ebookings@robben-island.org.za. That is also what the island's website tells you to do if you want to make a booking. Have you actually sent an e-mail yet?

I have sent an email to the ebooking URL I was given and got a response that the site was no longer is use.

Ah, now we are getting somewhere :-)

Have phoned them and Tracey says they are aware that the ebookings mail address is not working. But, you can mail her at traceyl@robben-island.org.za. Tracey is a booking officer.

Robben Island does have management problems - here is a fresh news report today:

Top Robben Island museum officials suspended

July 25, 2008, 11:30

The Robben Island Museum council has suspended its three top officials based on the outcome of a forensic report on key operations in the museum.

Current Chief Executive Officer Paul Langa, Chief Operating Officer Denmark Tongan and Chief Finance Officer, Nash Masekwameng have been relieved of their duties. A disciplinary hearing will be held against the three.

Meanwhile, the Council has appointed Seelan Naidoo as the CEO. Naidoo's brief is to take steps to comprehensively restructure the institution.

The chairperson of the council, Naledi Tsiki, wouldn't elaborate on the allegations until staff had been informed of the developments. "It's important for us to communicate with our staff so they don’t hear the issues from the media and then we can have a discussion or interview with you tomorrow..."

Last year two senior council executives were suspended following allegations of corruption to the tune of R25 million.

Tracey's surname starts with an "L" (the font above might confuse)

When I was there in june last years there were works and the most of it was closed... look for this!

Gerald - Thanks so much for pursuing this for me. I will follow up with Tracey.

Martyjake