Robben Island
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Port
Cape Town, South Africa
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$169
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
To fully appreciate current conditions in South Africa, thoughtful travelers can use this excursion to gain new insights. It examines some of the complex struggles that constitute South Africa's history.
You will visit Robben Island, traveling on foot from the ship to the ferry terminal. After browsing through the museum on the mainland, board the ferry for a transfer across Table Bay to Robben Island.
On the island, hop on the bus for a 45-minute orientation tour. In 1960, this former leper colony became a political prison synonymous with the struggle against decades of apartheid. Political prisoners held here included Nelson Mandela and poet Dennis Brutus. The last prisoners were released in 1991 and, in 1997, the Robben Island Museum opened its doors to the public, with a number of the former political prisoners becoming island guides. View Nelson Mandela's prison cell and hear a detailed commentary. You will see the quarry, where prisoners faced back-breaking labor and where Mandela's eyes were permanently damaged.
Robben Island is home to 23 mammal species and 132 bird species, including the African penguin.
After your 2½ hour visit to the island, return to the mainland by ferry and walk back to the ship.
Notes:
This tour is available only to guests whose cruise does not begin or end in Cape Town. Tour involves a substantial amount of walking. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes; bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a windbreaker. The Robben Island ferry ride is 30 to 45 minutes each way; it operates weather permitting, and the journey time can vary. In the event of ferry cancellation, a visit to Company Gardens and the Slave Lodge Museum will be substituted. On Robben Island, the government provides the guide and vehicles; these are not exclusive to Holland America guests.