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Port · Cidade do Cabo, Cabo Ocidental
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Working harbour transformed into a leisure district, with quays, a clock tower, aquarium, museums and the departure point for boats to Robben Island.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront occupies the oldest docks of Cape Town's harbour, built from 1860 and named for Queen Victoria and her son Alfred. The harbour remains in use: fishing boats, tugs and yachts share the quays with restaurants, shops and hotels, with Table Mountain as a backdrop.
In the Clock Tower Precinct are the red 1882 clock tower, the swing bridge and the Nelson Mandela Gateway, from where boats depart to Robben Island. On Nobel Square, statues honor the four South Africans awarded the Nobel Peace Prize: Albert Luthuli, Desmond Tutu, F. W. de Klerk and Nelson Mandela.
The Two Oceans Aquarium showcases marine life from the two oceans that meet on the country's coast, and the Zeitz MOCAA, in the old silo, houses contemporary African art. Boat tours of the bay and trips to seal colonies depart from the quay.
It is the busiest place in the city for dinner at night, and many people stay there for the convenience of walking to the Robben Island boat.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 2 hours to half a day, depending on what you visit.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the light hits Table Mountain, and at night for dinner. On rainy days the aquarium and museums keep things going.
How to get there
It is about 3 km from the city centre. The MyCiTi bus stops at the Waterfront, and there are rideshare apps and covered parking.
Tip
Buy the Robben Island boat in advance and arrive early at the Nelson Mandela Gateway. Bay boat tours depart from the quay near the clock tower.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
What to do at the V&A Waterfront?
Stroll the docks, see the clock tower and Nobel Square, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium and Zeitz MOCAA, take a boat trip around the bay, and dine out.
Where does the boat to Robben Island depart from?
From the Nelson Mandela Gateway, in the Clock Tower Precinct of the V&A Waterfront.
Is the V&A Waterfront far from the centre?
It’s about 3 km away, accessible by MyCiTi bus and ride‑hailing apps.