Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town takes its name from governor Simon van der Stel.

From 1743, the bay was used as a winter anchorage by the Dutch East India Company, while the British Royal Navy later developed it into a major naval base.

The enormous Selborne dry dock was completed in 1910. In 1957, the naval complex was transferred to South Africa, and the town remains closely connected with the South African Navy today.

But the story is not only about ships and attractive Victorian architecture.

Under the Group Areas Act, families classified by the apartheid state as Coloured were forcibly removed from central parts of Simon’s Town.

Today, visitors often experience the town as separate fragments: the Victorian Mile, dockyard, old houses, naval base and Boulders penguins.

They make more sense together as parts of one port town repeatedly reshaped by power, the navy and the communities living around its harbour.

In short: ⚓ Naval history · 🕰️ Port since 1743 · 🚢 Selborne dry dock · 🏛️ Victorian Mile · 📖 Group Areas Act history · 🐧 Boulders nearby

🏡 For your stay: Simon’s Town suits visitors looking for a coastal town, maritime history and the southern peninsula. Check the exact address, distances and your return plans before booking.

🚗 Getting around: plan your journeys in advance and compare the transport options for your route.