Things to See and do at the V&A Waterfront

Departing from the jetty outside the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront, the Waterfront Harbour Cruise puts Cape Town’s bustling harbour in the spotlight. Expect to see key attractions including icons of maritime history as well as epic views of the city’s natural landscape. Highlights include the SAS Somerset, the only remaining boom defence vessel in the world, and the southern hemisphere’s largest synchro-lift and only drawbridge, the Bascule Bridge. The cruise also includes views of Table Mountain, the Nelson Mandela Gateway, Chavonnes Battery Museum and the well-known Clock Tower. Of course, experiencing the bustling waterways of Cape Town from a boat is a highlight itself, and this cruise offers a perspective of the city that no other tour can offer.

With more than 3,000 creatures on show, the Two Oceans Aquarium provides a diverse showcase of Atlantic and Indian Ocean marine life. Explore different underwater species from the Ocean Basket Kelp Forest, which also showcases the unique kelp that is found on Cape Town beaches. Check out what sea life looks like under a microscope, and explore the Indian Ocean. View mesmerising exhibits that features the dazzling colours of its fish, translucent jellies, shy octopuses and Knysna seahorses. Make a point to check out the new I&J Exhibit, a 10-meter long tunnel that gives a peek at a variety of subtropical species.

Enjoy a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the Mother City from the iconic and vibrant V&A Waterfront on the Cape Wheel. With 30 fully enclosed, air conditioned cabins which gently rise 40 metres above the ground in safety and comfort, it’s fun for the whole family, all year long. From a vantage point high in the sky, gorgeous views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Cape Town city skyline and local mountains are unveiled. The breath-taking display is enjoyed for four revolutions a ride, lasting about 15 minutes. Two wheelchair-friendly cabins are available, making this an inviting experience for everyone.

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is a public, not-for-profit contemporary art museum which collects, preserves, researches and exhibits 21st century art from Africa and the diaspora. With over 100 galleries, spread across nine floors, the museum displays cutting-edge work in its permanent and special exhibitions. Expect to view remarkable pieces from Kendell Geers (SA), Ghada Amer (Egypt), Kudzanai Chiurai (Zimbabwe), Mouna Karray (Tunisia) and many more.

Visit Nobel Square and take a photo with South African Nobel Peace Prize laureates, Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Albert Luthuli and FW de Klerk.

It is recommended to spend at least two hours at the V&A Waterfront. Why not make a day of it and enjoy everything the waterfront has to offer? — indulge in shopping at the world-class mall and Watershed Market, sample some delicious cuisine at the various restaurants, enjoy the multiple buskers and artists and end the day with a Waterfront Harbour Cruise!

The V&A Waterfront is full of activities to suit any budget. Be sure to book attractions online prior to your visit for an extra discount and don't forget to bring pocket money to tip buskers and to enjoy a bite to eat at the Market on the Wharf.