• Search Ports



Date Cruise Ship PAX

The Port of Cape Town

Welcome to Cape Town

Welcome to Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, a vibrant cultural hub set against the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain. Known for its diverse heritage, stunning landscapes, and rich history, Cape Town offers something for every traveler. With 6-10 hours ashore, cruise passengers can explore bustling markets, world-class museums, or take a scenic drive to see the famous Cape of Good Hope. Whether you’re here for the views or the culture, Cape Town guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Port Information and Docking

Cruise ships dock at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal, located within the V&A Waterfront, a vibrant harbor area filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. As a docking port, passengers can disembark directly onto the pier, which is just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center. Cape Town is a busy port, welcoming over 200,000 cruise passengers annually. Visitors are drawn to the city’s natural beauty, historic sites, and close proximity to world-famous landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island.

Getting to the City Center

The V&A Waterfront is conveniently close to Cape Town’s city center. Here are a few options for getting into town:

  • Walking: It’s a pleasant 20-30 minute walk from the cruise terminal to the heart of the city, passing through the lively Waterfront area.
  • Taxis: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available at the terminal, with a ride to the city center taking about 5-10 minutes.
  • MyCiTi Bus: The MyCiTi public bus system has a stop near the cruise terminal, offering easy access to downtown Cape Town and beyond.

For those interested in exploring nearby towns, Stellenbosch (50 km / 31 miles) is a popular wine destination, and it can be reached by car in around 45 minutes.

Top Attractions in Cape Town

Cape Town is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the top five must-see attractions during your visit:

  • Table Mountain: Take the cable car to the top for breathtaking views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains. Tickets are approximately ZAR 380 for adults and ZAR 190 for children.
  • Robben Island: Visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ferry tours start at ZAR 600 per person.
  • V&A Waterfront: Explore this bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and the Two Oceans Aquarium. Entry to the aquarium is ZAR 200 for adults and ZAR 90 for children.
  • Bo-Kaap: Wander through this colorful neighborhood, known for its brightly painted houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Free to explore.
  • Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: A stunning garden at the foot of Table Mountain, ideal for a leisurely walk. Entrance is ZAR 75 for adults and ZAR 20 for children.

Local Cuisine

Cape Town’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors, reflecting its multicultural history. Here are some local dishes to try:

  • Bobotie: A traditional Cape Malay dish made with spiced minced meat, baked with an egg-based topping.
  • Bunny Chow: A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, a favorite in South African street food.
  • Boerewors: A type of sausage made from beef, pork, and spices, usually served with pap (cornmeal porridge).
  • Malva Pudding: A sweet, sticky dessert made with apricot jam and served with custard or ice cream.
  • Snoek: A local fish, often grilled or smoked and served with apricot jam or a garlic butter sauce.

Interesting Facts About Cape Town

  • Cape Town is home to one of the New7Wonders of Nature, Table Mountain, which towers over the city at 1,084 meters (3,558 feet).
  • The V&A Waterfront, where cruise ships dock, is named after Queen Victoria and her son, Alfred, and is one of the most visited attractions in South Africa.
  • Cape Town is known as the "Mother City" and is the oldest city in South Africa, founded in 1652.

Geographical Surroundings and Scenic Views

Cape Town is situated on the southwest coast of South Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The city is framed by the iconic Table Mountain, offering spectacular views from nearly every corner. To the south, the Cape Peninsula stretches toward the Cape of Good Hope, known for its dramatic cliffs and abundant wildlife, including baboons and ostriches. The coastline is dotted with beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton, known for their white sands and clear blue waters.

Historical and Cultural Insights

Cape Town has a rich and complex history, beginning with the indigenous Khoisan people and later becoming a key stop for European ships en route to the East. Dutch colonists established the city in the 17th century, and its colonial past is still visible in landmarks like the Castle of Good Hope. More recently, Cape Town played a crucial role in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, with Robben Island serving as a symbol of resistance. Today, the city is a vibrant cultural hub, celebrating its diverse heritage through festivals, art, and music.

Local Customs and Tips

Cape Town is known for its friendly and diverse people. When visiting, it’s customary to greet others with a smile and a “hello” or “good day.” Tipping is standard in restaurants, with 10-15% being common for good service. Be mindful of personal safety when exploring, especially at night, and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas. Many locals speak English, but you may also hear Afrikaans and Xhosa spoken throughout the city. Cape Town is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors should respect the different customs and traditions found here.

Family-Friendly Activities

  • Children up to 6 years: Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront, where young children can marvel at sharks, turtles, and playful penguins.
  • Children 7 to 12 years: Take the family on a ride up Table Mountain in the cable car, where children can explore the mountain top’s easy walking paths and scenic views.
  • Teenagers 13 to 18 years: For older kids, a visit to Robben Island offers a unique and educational experience, while adventurous teens may enjoy a day of surfing at Muizenberg Beach.

Google Maps

Cape Town Port

Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.