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V&A Waterfront Historical Walking Tours 

Take a step back in time to a bygone era; to a time of sailors, seafarers and intrepid adventurers.  Follow in the footsteps of South Africa’s founders when the majesty of the V&A Waterfront was a brave little jetty built by Jan van Riebeeck in 1654.  Relive the frenzy of the shouts of the sailors and stevedores as we sidestep and expertly navigate the hustle and bustle of this iconic trading port’s vibrant history.  
Stand proud as we salute HRH Prince Alfred, Queen Victoria’s second son, for inaugurating the V&A Waterfront’s construction as a 16-year-old midshipman in the Royal Navy in 1860.  Let us stand even prouder as we salute his return 10 years later for the official opening of the completed works in July1870.

The breakwater in the 1920s Rogge Bay in the 20th century The Promenade Pier, 1938 Another view of the Promenade Pier, 1913 Victoria Basin, 1920 Alfred Basin, turn of the 19th century A view on the harbour area in 1938 Duncan Dock, 1939 Remnants of the breakwater scaffolding Union-Castle makes its presence felt, 1905

Just as the pioneering Power Station bought the first light to Cape Town, so our registered tour guide will illuminate the history of the V&A Waterfront, regaling you with facts and anecdotes of South Africa’s most popular cultural destination.

Booking is essential. Visit the V&A Waterfront Information Centre or In-mall Kiosk for bookings and further information.

Tour Information and Route

South Africa’s oldest working harbour is home to 22 landmarks. Our journey begins at Chavonnes Battery Museum, the harbour’s oldest relic.  The tour then winds its way from Clock Tower Square and will include, but is not limited to the following points of interest:
•   Clock Tower
•   Swing Bridge
•   Bertie’s Landing
•   African Trading Port
•   Alfred Basin
•   Robinson Dry Dock - one of the oldest of its kind in the world still in daily use
•   SAS Somerset – the only boom defence vessel remaining in the world
•   Old Power Station - Cape Town’s first power station
•   Pump House
•   Breakwater Prison –markings left by recalcitrant prisoners are still visible today
•   Portswood Ridge
•   Time Ball Tower
•   Portswood Tunnel
•   Rocket Shed
•   Union Castle Building
•   Victoria Basin
•   Tour ends: Quay 5 / Amphitheatre

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Timings

The V&A Waterfront Historical Walking Tours depart daily from Chavonnes Battery Museum at 11am*
*The frequency of tours are dependent on demand

Booking Process

Bookings can be made at the V&A Waterfront Information Centre or In-mall Kiosk.
An 11% deposit is required to secure a booking.
The balance is payable at Chavonnes Battery Museum on commencement of the tour.
A booking confirmation receipt from the Information Centre or In-mall Kiosk must be presented to Chavonnes Battery Museum on the day of the tour.
Daily scheduled tours depart @ 11h00am.
Tours are subject to availability.


Minimum and maximum per tour
• Min = 4 people*
• Max = 10 people
*For groups of less than 4 people, a minimum fee of R400.00 applies.

Minimum and maximum per tour
• Adult - R100pp
• Child - R20 per child (10-18yrs)
• School - cost available on request
*(Below 10yrs of age: free of charge)


Fees

Category Adults Children Schools
Fee R100.00 pp R20.00 pp* Cost available on request
* 10-18 years of age (below 10 years of age: free of charge)

Should you wish to make your booking, please call the Chavonnes Battery Museum
on +27 21 416 6230

Additional

An historical map and brochure of the V&A Waterfront is available at the V&A Waterfront Information Centre and In-mall Kiosk free of charge

Click here to download a copy of the Historical Walking Tour Brochure.

V&A Waterfront Historical Walking Tours in partnership with Chavonnes Battery Museum.