25 Mar 2021 From 1 to 30 April, Robben Island Museum (RIM), is offering a 15% discount on all group tickets of three or more. Friends, family and everyone inbetween can now enjoy a fun day out, taking advantage to the remaining late Summer days, as well as the financial saving. “With the Easter Weekend and school holidays on the horizon, there is no better time to bring the family to the island for a truly memorable day out. A visit to RIM is a unique experience that touches one’s senses from the time one boards the ferry at the Gateway to Robben Island, the journey across the Atlantic, that incredible moment when one sets foot on the island, the flurry of emotions experienced on the guided tour, to the tranquil journey back to the mainland,” said Siphuxolo Mazwi, RIM Senior Manager: Marketing and Tourism. During the months of lockdown, RIM used to the opportunity to upgrade the island, and in particular expand on the range of exhibits. These include the visitors’ centre, where wives and mothers of prisoners gathered to see their loved ones, albeit for a few brief moments; the Sobukwe Complex, which housed South Africa’s first political prisoner on the island, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe as well as the artillery room where the eeriness of the weapons and their handlers still linger in the air. While not all the new exhibits have been launched yet, visitors will get a sneak preview of some of the artifacts inside the maximum security prison, under the knowledgeable guidance of a former political prisoner, who speaks not only of the facts as recorded in the history books, but shares first-hand, an anecdotal encounter of life behind the bars of a once notorious prison, that is today a celebration of triumph over adversity. “Many establishments in the tourism sector have taken strain over the past year, and RIM is no exception. Visitor numbers are still 90% down from previous years. This has a direct impact on the short-term sustainability of the island. We are however confident that RIM will survive the economic onslaught of COVID-19 and we are ready to welcome visitors from Cape Town and beyond. In the spirit of responsible tourism, all COVID-19 protocols are strictly observed both on the ferry, and on the island. We also encourage visitors to purchase their tickets online, via Webtickets to avoid queueing at the Gateway,” concluded Mazwi. The ferry operates Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, at 11h00. Should the demand increase, additional tours will be made available. Regular local ticket prices are R400 per adult and R210 for children under 18. This holiday, come and experience a fusion of history, heritage and family fun!
