Cape Town's setting ranks as one of the most beautiful in the world. Situated near the southern tip of the vast African continent, about 25 miles from the Cape of Good Hope, the city spreads between the 3,000-foot-high, flat-topped Table Mountain and the sparkling sea.
The official founding of Cape Town is recorded as April 6, 1652. On that day, Jan van Riebeeck arrived at Table Bay with a small expedition. They proceeded to build a fort for the Dutch East India Company to serve as a base for their ships where they could take on provisions of fresh meat, fruit and vegetables. Van Riebeeck started to barter with the Khoikhoi tribe and planted gardens that are known today as the Company’s Gardens.
At first sight, Cape Town appears surprisingly small. The city center, lying to the north of Table Mountain and east of Signal Hill, is also referred to as the City Bowl. Its compactness makes for easy exploration on foot, starting with the historic company gardens.
Cape Town offers museums, parks and gardens in addition to numerous historical buildings such as the Castle, which is the oldest surviving structure in South Africa. It was built between 1666 and 1679, replacing Van Riebeeck's original mud-walled fort.
Outside of the city, attractions include impressive mountains, great surfing beaches, outstanding wineries and splendid scenery. A cable car ride up Table Mountain offers visitors a spectacular panorama on a clear day. (The cable car’s operation is subject to weather conditions.)
With its unique setting, cosmopolitan population and diverse cultures, Cape Town is a highlight of any visit to South Africa. |
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| The ship is scheduled to dock at Table Bay Harbour-E Berth, Duncan Dock or Jetty 2. The city center is a 10-minute drive from the port. From Jetty 2, the Victoria and Albert Waterfront complex is within walking distance. Metered taxis are generally available at the pier. |
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Cape Town offers a wide range of crafts, often reflecting a blend of African and European styles. The Waterfront Shopping Complex, within walking distance from the pier, offers some of the best African art plus a wide range of shops and restaurants. You may want to buy a bottle or two of the renowned South African wines. The local currency is the rand.
Please Note: Various countries prohibit the import of ostrich eggs, which, decorated and engraved, are offered in numerous stores for sale. |
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| A distinct cuisine evolved from a mix of French, Dutch and Malay cooking. Many restaurants specialize in African cuisine, offering such delicacies as kudu (African antelope), smoked crocodile tail, springbok and ostrich. Excellent eateries that cater to all tastes can be found from the historic city center to the outlying suburbs. |
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Greenmarket Square
This pleasant spot was created as a farmers' market in 1710; today it is home to a daily flea market, selling arts and crafts among other odds and ends.
Townhouse Museum
Formerly the City Hall, today it is home to the renowned Michaelis Collection of 16th- and 17th-century Dutch and Flemish paintings.
Koopmans de Wet House
This building serves as a classic example of a Cape townhouse; it is furnished with antiques.
Great Synagogue and Jewish Museum
The synagogue was founded in 1862 and is the oldest one in South Africa; adjacent to it is the Jewish Museum. It is only open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Robben Island
Ferries depart from the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront to the infamous island outpost, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for more than two decades.
Private car arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board. |
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