Simonstown Naval Educational

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Friday, 20 January 2012
Written by Martin Fine
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We normally drive through Simonstown en route with perhaps only a passing mention of its history, architecture, the navy, and of course Just Nuisance. We know there are 4 museums - each is different but, just how good are they? Well, thanks to Mary, our knowledge has much improved. Have you visited the South African Naval Museum? Do you know how fascinating it is? But now you can add on a submarine, YES! Actually floating and ready for action – almost.

 

On Friday 20th January we met at 09:00 on a damp misty morning outside the Simonstown Museum – itself well worth a visit. From there we walked to the South African Naval Museum where Mantombi Thabethe, the Public Relations Officer, welcomed us in the old chapel. There! I bet you didn’t know there was one or that it was built by the British as a sail loft! For well over an hour we studied the exhibits learning much about our diverse history. Then, it was off to the dockyard to board a REAL submarine.

After serving the SA Navy from 1971 to 2003, SAS Assegaai, formerly SAS Johanna van der Merwe, was the third submarine to be commissioned. She was finally taken out of service on 28 November 2003 and placed in reserve until the first new Type 209 submarine for the SAN was launched. A small group of enthusiastic volunteers, both serving and retired, then lobbied for its preservation as part of our rich Naval Heritage. In her first year as a museum boat, nearly 10 000 visitors have been aboard her. 

Tickets may be purchased at the HGTS office at the station or the Stadco office on Jubilee Square. Cost: R40 per person and R20 for children under 12 years.

OPENING TIMES: Daily except Christmas Day and Good Friday. The duration of the visit takes one hour. Standard operating hours (based on bus departure times) are: 

10:30 – 15:00. During the winter months (June to September) week day visits are from 11:30 – 14:30. ENQUIRIES & BOOKINGS HGTS Tours: (021) 786 5243 Aladdin@hgtstours.com

Naval Museum (for general enquiries): (021) 787 4686 SAS Assegaai (opening hours only): (021) 787 5267. Unfortunately you cannot drive directly into the harbour so access is only by way of HGTS Tours.

This tour is a must for any visitor interested in Naval History. Like all visitors, after a walk around the dry dock where two ships were under repair, hunger called. Mary had another surprise up her sleeve. Did you know you can take your visitors for lunch at the False Bay Yacht Club? Yes you CAN! The setting is gorgeous. Parking is easy. The view to die for. The food – there is something for everyone – the chicken pie, the calamari and line fish is outstanding. The cost – incredible value for money. Booking is advised contact Heather and ask for Neptune’s Restaurant 0217861703.

This educational was repeated on the 2nd February 2012.