It’s the SA Naval Festival and Commander Leon Steyn of the SA Naval Museum & Assegaai Submarine Museum tells us what to expect in Simonstown for the SA Naval Festival taking place from 17-19 April.
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Commander Leon Steyn suggests that if you are heading for Simon’s Town this weekend, you might want to take the scenic train ride to avoid the traffic and parking problems with the SA Naval Festival in full swing. Enjoy the 2km scenic walk from the station down the main street, past historic Admiralty House, with the first stop being the SA Naval Museum. The Assegaai Submarine Museum is a 15-minute walk away. And then head for the Festival.
People often ask if they can visit the navy ships and go on a submarine. That’s why the navy is opening up its naval base this weekend to allow the public to see the working navy – the whole purpose of the Navy Festival. . Come in early, like 8 or 9 o’clock – the museums open at 09h30 and the Festival at 10h00.
Under normal conditions what are the attractions of the museums? Leon explains that the buildings themselves are a highlight displaying amazing architecture. The Museum itself is a British Naval Mast House dating back to 1814. The building next door is a Dutch Store House built in 1743. And both historic buildings are used by the museum. The Clock Tower has recently been renovated and is now in beautiful working condition.
Inside the museum you will find the history of the Navy. South Africa did not have a navy in the 1st World War, but the SS Mendes is one of the topics featured. In the 2nd World War, South African sailors seconded to the British Navy is covered. Later developments of the navy right up to the 1960’s and 1970’s are featured.
The Submarine Museum SAS Assegaai came about through passionate volunteers – retired admirals who created the first submarine museum in Africa. The first with a naval vessel in South Africa that has been preserved and that you are taken through on guided tours. People love the tour which takes about 45 minutes.
Entry to the SA Naval Museum is FREE. There is a charge for entry to the Submarine Museum, but this covers the cost of the guided tour. Cost: R80, Pensioners R60, Kids R40.
At least 2 good reasons to visit Simon’s Town. And both locations are classified as Museums and Cultural Heritage Sites – internationally recognised icons on the Cape Town Green Map!
WHAT: SA Naval Festival 2026 – Simon’s Town
WHERE: South African Naval Museum, St George’s Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town | Submarine Museum SAS Assegaai, King George’s Way, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
WHEN: Open seven days a week from 09h30 – 15h30
INFO: Naval Museum T 021 787 4686 E sanavalmuseum@gmail.com VISIT | Submarine Museum T 021 787 4787 E admin@assegaai-submarine.co.za VISIT | See also Cape Town Green Map
SA NAVAL MUSEUM [32] SUBMARINE MUSEUM SAS ASSEGAAI [32]
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