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Museum · Hermanus, Cabo Ocidental
Old Harbour Museum
Hermanus’s original fishing harbour from the mid-19th century, turned into an open-air museum with old boats on the rocks and views over the bay.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Old Harbour Museum
The Old Harbour was Hermanus’s first fishing harbour, used from the mid-19th century when the village subsisted on fishing. Fishermen hauled wooden boats up a stone slipway between the rocks. With the construction of the New Harbour in 1951, the old harbour lost its function and became a museum and national monument.
The open-air museum displays old wooden fishing boats on the slipway, huts and fishing gear. The complex also includes the photography museum, with images of the old village, and the Whale House, featuring the skeleton of a southern right whale and an exhibition about Walker Bay’s whales.
Above the harbour are the town centre and the market square, where a craft fair is held. From there the central section of the Cliff Path begins.
In season, the terrace above the Old Harbour is one of the most popular spots to see whales up close.
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 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Best time
In the morning, combined with the Cliff Path. Check the Whale House opening days and hours.
How to get there
It’s located in Hermanus town centre, below the market square, within walking distance from anywhere in town.
Tip
Visit the Whale House first to learn what to look for in the water, then head down to the harbour and the Cliff Path.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Old Harbour Museum
What is in Hermanus Old Harbour?
Old fishing boats displayed on the stone slipway, the photography museum and the Whale House, with a southern right whale skeleton.
Is the Old Harbour in the centre of Hermanus?
Yes, below the market square, at the start of the central section of the Cliff Path.
Can you see whales from the Old Harbour?
In season, from July to November, the terrace above the harbour is one of the most popular spots.