Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town
Traveler rating
3.1/5
Based on 190 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town worth booking?
Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town is a 5-hour experience in Cape Town, South Africa, from R 1,500 per person. It scores 46 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.1/5 rating across 190 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 46 / 100
- Rating
- 3.1/5 (190)
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- R 1,500 per person
Visit Robben Island with a pre-booked ferry ticket from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. This official shared museum experience includes the return ferry crossing, island bus tour, and guided prison visit, including the historic prison where Nelson Mandela was held. Ideal for travellers who want a simple, ticket-only way to experience Robben Island. Hotel transfers are not included. - Pre-booked Robben Island ferry ticket from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront - Return ferry crossing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island - Official guided Robben Island Museum tour included - Visit the historic maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was held - Learn from an official museum guide or former political prisoner - See key island landmarks, including the prison, lime quarry and historic sites - Avoid the stress of trying to secure Robben Island tickets on your own
What you get
About this experience
Visit Robben Island with a pre-booked ferry ticket from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. This official shared museum experience includes the return ferry crossing, island bus tour, and guided prison visit, including the historic prison where Nelson Mandela was held. Ideal for travellers who want a simple, ticket-only way to experience Robben Island. Hotel transfers are not included. - Pre-booked Robben Island ferry ticket from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront - Return ferry crossing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island - Official guided Robben Island Museum tour included - Visit the historic maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was held - Learn from an official museum guide or former political prisoner - See key island landmarks, including the prison, lime quarry and historic sites - Avoid the stress of trying to secure Robben Island tickets on your own
What's included
Included
- Official shared island bus tour and Guided prison tour
- Admission fees
- Entrance fees
- Pre-booked ticket assistance
- Ticket delivery by WhatsApp, iMessage or Email where possible
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport to and from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront
What you'll see and do
Arrive at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, check your ticket details, complete boarding procedures and prepare for the ferry crossing to Robben Island. (30-minutes) Travel by shared ferry from Cape Town across Table Bay to Robben Island. Weather and sea conditions may affect ferry operations. (30-minutes)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Robben Island Museum
Join the official shared island bus tour and see important historical landmarks connected to Robben Island’s political, military and social history. Walk through the historic prison complex with an official Robben Island Museum guide. Learn about the history of the prison and its conditions of life experienced by the political prisoners, and Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment journey on the island. End off with the Long March to Freedom in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela.
180 minutes here · Admission included
After this enlightening historical tour you will board the return ferry to the V&A Waterfront, where the experience ends back at the original meeting point.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cape Town
Please arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time. Guests must bring a copy of their passport, ID or identity document, either printed or saved on a mobile phone.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Please arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time. Guests must bring a copy of their passport, ID or identity document, either printed or saved on a mobile phone.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Beyond Africa Safaris (Pty)Ltd
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This product is for international travellers. South African citizens and residents who qualify for local rates should book directly with Robben Island Museum if they wish to access local pricing.
- Robben Island ferry operations are weather dependent. If the ferry is cancelled by Robben Island Museum due to weather, sea conditions, operational reasons or safety concerns, guests will be assisted according to the cancellation or rescheduling policy available for the booking.
- The Robben Island experience is operated as a shared museum tour. Group size, ferry allocation, bus allocation, guide allocation, timing on the island, and access to specific areas are controlled by Robben Island Museum.
- Guests cannot enter every individual prison cell. Access is managed by Robben Island Museum for conservation, safety and crowd-control reasons.
- Please provide the correct mobile number, country code and email address when booking so that your ticket details can be sent to you.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 190 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
190 verified traveler reviews for Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent, moving tour
Excellent, moving tour. Our tour guide was a former political prisoner, so he knew Robben Island from the inside. The bus around the island was well-organized and timely. The boat ride there and back was good, too -- plenty of space to be on deck and watch for whales and dolphins.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Client, Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for choosing Beyond Africa Safaris. We are delighted to hear that you found your Robben Island experience so meaningful and well organised. It is especially powerful to know that your guide brought such personal insight to the experience through his own history as a former political prisoner. Having someone with firsthand knowledge of Robben Island can add a very unique perspective to the stories and history shared during the visit, and we are pleased that this contributed to such a moving experience. We are also glad to hear that the island bus tour was well organised and ran on time. We always aim to ensure that every part of the experience is coordinated smoothly so that our guests can focus on learning, reflecting and taking in the significance of the island. It is wonderful that you also enjoyed the boat journey to and from Robben Island. Having space on deck to take in the ocean and look out for whales and dolphins adds another memorable dimension to the experience. Thank you once again for taking the time to share your feedback. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back to Cape Town for another meaningful and unforgettable experience with Beyond Africa Safaris. Kind regards Albert Rocky Kasilembo Operations Manager Beyond Africa Safaris
via Tripadvisor
Sobering review of history
This is a sobering activity. It provides insight into what humans are capable of and what they can endure. The trip over was on a large ferry which was crowded and had minimal air flow. A video depicting the history of the island looked interesting but could not be heard and while there were closed captions, at times these were lengthy and could not be appreciated Our tour guide was incredible and relegated several stories. Unfortunately, there were a couple of families with small children who allowed them to run around and talk loudly, making it difficult to hear the guide. While we understand children are allowed, a supervised and centralised area for younger children would enhance the experience for those who are interested in the history of Robben Island. An added benefit was seeing the African Penguins.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Client, Thank you for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review and for choosing Beyond Africa Safaris. We are pleased to hear that you found your visit to Robben Island to be such a meaningful and thought-provoking experience. It is a place of immense historical significance, and we are delighted that your guide's storytelling helped bring its powerful history to life. We are also glad you enjoyed the unexpected sighting of the African penguins. We appreciate your constructive feedback regarding the ferry crossing, audio quality, and the distractions caused during the guided tour. Your comments are valuable, and while aspects such as the ferry and Robben Island's visitor management are beyond our direct control, we will gladly share your observations with the relevant operators, as they help improve the overall visitor experience. Thank you once again for your valuable feedback and support. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable South African experience in the future. Kind regards Albert Rocky Kasilembo Operations Manager Beyond Africa Safaris
via Tripadvisor
A disappointing cancellation
My ticket was cancelled less than 24 hours before the trip - with no real explanation. My friends, who also booked through Viator, did not have their trips cancelled. I then had to struggle to get my trip refunded, as it had been cancelled within the 24 hour refund window. However I did eventually manage to get it refunded.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Client, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for bringing this matter to our attention. We are truly sorry to hear that your booking was cancelled less than 24 hours before your scheduled tour, and that the situation was not clearly explained at the time. We completely understand how frustrating and disappointing this must have been, especially when travel plans are carefully arranged in advance. We also regret the inconvenience you experienced while processing your refund. Even though we are glad to hear that your refund was eventually successfully completed, we fully appreciate that the process should have been smoother and more clearly communicated from the start. Please be assured that cancellations at such short notice are not handled lightly, and we will be reviewing this case internally to better understand what happened and why your booking was affected while similar bookings were not. At Beyond Africa Safaris, we are committed to providing reliable service, clear communication, and fair treatment for all guests. Your feedback is important in helping us improve our booking coordination and customer support processes. Thank you again for your honest review. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and hope we may have the opportunity to provide you with a more seamless and positive experience in the future. Kind regards Albert Rocky Kasilembo Operations Manager Beyond Africa Safaris
via Viator
Know your History!
This was such a amazing experience! Our guide was amazing. He shared his story with great passion. A truly special experience.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Client, Thank you so much for your kind review and for choosing Beyond Africa Safaris for your Cape Town tour experience. We are delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience and that your guide made the day so special for you. It is wonderful to know that his storytelling and passion helped bring the journey to life and created a meaningful and memorable experience. At Beyond Africa Safaris, we pride ourselves on offering professionally guided Cape Town sightseeing tours where our guides share not only knowledge but also personal insight and passion for the region, making each tour unique and engaging. Thank you once again for your feedback and support. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable Cape Town sightseeing tour or South African safari adventure in the future. Kind regards Albert Rocky Kasilembo Operations Manager Beyond Africa Safaris
via Tripadvisor
A sobering experience worth the visit
What an eye opening and educational experience this was. Our prison tour guide, Derek Basson, shared not only his personal experience as a prisoner in the late 80/early 90s, but many stories of Nelson Mandela and Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, who was the founding president of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC). Tears came to my eyes hearing the injustices prisoners faced during their time at the prison. Although it was a sobering experience it was worth the visit.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Client, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a heartfelt and meaningful review of your experience with Beyond Africa Safaris. We are truly moved to hear how impactful and educational your visit was. Experiences such as these offer a powerful opportunity to reflect on South Africa’s history, resilience, and journey toward freedom. We are especially pleased to hear that Derek Basson’s personal stories and insights created such a memorable and emotional connection to the experience. Learning about the lives of iconic figures such as Nelson Mandela and Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, while hearing firsthand accounts of life during those difficult years, makes a Robben Island tour and historical Cape Town experience deeply meaningful for many visitors. We understand that it can be an emotional and sobering journey, and we are grateful to know that despite this, you found the visit worthwhile and enriching. At Beyond Africa Safaris, we are committed to offering authentic Cape Town cultural tours, meaningful historical experiences, and guided journeys that leave a lasting impact on our guests. Thank you once again for your thoughtful feedback. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable Cape Town tour or South African travel experience in the future. Kind regards Albert Rocky Kasilembo Operations Manager Beyond Africa Safaris
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 67
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Beyond Africa Safaris (Pty)Ltd, who run 32 experiences we rank across 6 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.8 and 4 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Beyond Africa Safaris (Pty)Ltd runsWhy this scores 46
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cape Town.
How much does Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town cost?
+
Prices start at R 1,500 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cape Town usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town take?
+
Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cape Town is not rushed.
Is Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 46 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.1/5 across 190 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cape Town, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Around 67 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cape Town can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cape Town and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cape Town within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cape Town?
+
On Outty we rank every Cape Town experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike, Hike Table Mountain or Lions Head in Cape Town Like a Local, Cape Point and Boulder's Penguins Full Day Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cape Town?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cape Town?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Included: Official shared island bus tour and Guided prison tour; Admission fees; Entrance fees; Pre-booked ticket assistance; and Ticket delivery by WhatsApp, iMessage or Email where possible. Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; and Transport to and from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Please arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time. Guests must bring a copy of their passport, ID or identity document, either printed or saved on a mobile phone. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and This tour is not wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town?
+
Across 190 reviews averaging 3.1 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Robben Island Museum, Bus Tour, and Ferry Tickets from Cape Town.
Pick your date
