Cross Table Bay to the island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. A former political prisoner leads you through the maximum-security cellblock — one of the most profoundly moving experiences on the planet.
What to expect
The 30-minute ferry departs the V&A Waterfront (a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal) and crosses to the island. A bus tour covers the island's lime quarry and political exile sites before an ex-prisoner leads the cellblock tour, pausing at Nelson Mandela's actual cell. The emotional resonance is unlike anywhere else in Africa. The return ferry gives views of the full Cape Town mountain backdrop.
Good to know
Ferries depart at set times (09:00, 11:00, 13:00); pre-book well in advance as tours sell out weeks ahead, especially on cruise days. Total duration is approximately 3.5 hours. Confirm your ship's all-aboard time — the 09:00 departure is safest.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Cape Town — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Cape Town
- Table Mountain: Private Summit Experience & Cable Car Ride
- Cape Peninsula Private Drive: Cape Point, Good Hope & Penguins
- Stellenbosch & Franschhoek: Private Cape Winelands Half-Day
- City Sightseeing Cape Town: Hop-On Hop-Off Premium Bus + Table Mountain Cable Car
- Great White Shark Cage Diving: Gansbaai Day Expedition