The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island

It's my - I lose count - visiting the island over the last 30 years . I never tire of it. I have joined family, friends and colleagues from local and abroad visiting me in CT. Every story told by the ex political prisoner is new. I am forever learning of our dark miserable history I know should never ever be repeated. I think there is an opportunity to play political struggle songs whilst waiting to board as well, to create the ambiance. On the ferry after the safety video some engaging bits on our history or past famous prisoners - even a message from CEO could continue to engage the visitors and increase affinity and referrals for future visit (not that it's nit a already popular destination). Overall, it was refreshing to visit the island again in deep appreciation for those who sacrificed their freedom and youth for me to have a better future in the country of my ancestors. lovely renovations and upkeep. I sure will be returning, trust. Thank You sinverely

Fantastic boat trip there and back. The guides were phenomenal. Ex prisoners themselves, with great insights and experiences into the prison and Mandela. The time flew by, and we loved it. Took family from overseas as well.

Remember your ID, luckily we had scanned images.. it felt like passport control.. That aside, very special and humbling place. Guides that were previously imprisoned here explaining how it felt - amazing! Worth the boat trip and for me rough sea, but most seemed OK..

The place, besides the museum, is the embarkation point for Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned during the Apartheid period in South Africa. In the prison, currently deactivated, there is a guided tour showing the routine of the prisoners and Mandela's cell. It is worth visiting!

It was a great experience. I recommend that everyone make a trip at least once in a lifetime to learn about this important heritage of Robyn Island, South Africa.

An important part of our visit to South Africa was our visit to Robben Island via the Nelson Mandela Gateway Tour. It was in equal parts a sobering yet insightful and amazing experience. The ferry ride from the V & A Waterfront to Robben Island was a great start, but delightfully unexpected was the gentle and indepth narrative given by our first tour guide, Mr Y, a 38 year old South African, whose deconstruction of the ideology that underpinned the Apartheid system, under which Robben Island was operated, will live in my memory forever. The second part of the tour was conducted by a former political prisoner who, at 17 years old, was arrested and jailed on Robben Island for 7 years. It was an honour to be in the presence of one of the few remaining political prisoners and to be guided around the prison and the system of divide and rule that was adopted to create enmity between prisoners. My partner, Nii, and I left feeling saddened by the brutal savagery of Apartheid and the system of degradation and subjugation on Robben Island, but also encouraged by the indomitable spirit of those directly and indirectly affected by the unfairness of being imprisoned on Robben Island. A visit to Cape Town would be incomplete without a tour of Robben Island. PS: All it took for the Apartheid system to operate and flourish was for those who knew to do good, to stand by and do nothing... We shall return, and next time, I am bringing my 12 year old son. Thank you, Banjo & Nii October 2024

The Nelson Mandela Gateway, located at the Cape Town waterfront, offers a profound and reflective experience. The museum's modern interior features artifacts that celebrate humanity, peace, and freedom. It vividly portrays Nelson Mandela's life, focusing on his journey from a radical activist to a symbol of reconciliation during South Africa's apartheid era. The exhibits also highlight the history of the ANC, its allies, and figures like Helen Suzman, who opposed apartheid. The Gateway serves as a gateway to South Africa's complex history, offering visitors a chance to understand the nation's struggle and triumphs. Beyond Mandela's greatness, the museum reveals his imperfections, emphasizing his humanity. A visit here inspires introspection and a deeper appreciation of resilience and hope. Surrounding the Gateway are family-friendly amenities, including children’s play areas and diverse restaurants. Visitors can also book a Robben Island tour for just over R400 via cashless payment. Exploring this site and retracing Mandela’s journey, from Soweto to Cape Town, offers a life-changing perspective. Revisiting such a tumultuous history is emotionally intense but ultimately rewarding, reminding us to move forward with hope for a brighter future.

We very much appreciated the purposes and motivations behind this tour. It is eye opening to international visitors that didn’t live here and experience the traumas of the past. Some tips: the ticket says boat gate opens 45 minutes prior to tour time. What that means is that you start a queue inside the museum beginning at 45 minutes prior and stand there until departure time. Also, if it’s a hot day, grab a seat near one of the open doors if possible. The ferry can get quite warm. Finally, and true with all tours, try to get a seat on the bus up front. The drivers are hard to hear from the back, especially if you sit in front of a two-year old. Once off the bus and inside the prison, the commentary was excellent and moving. It’s well worth doing this trip.