Simonstown : Profile

Clearance

Every port in South Africa is considered to be a new "International Stop" for yachts. Yachties are considered seamen, not tourists. As a result, the paperwork and procedures to follow especially in Cape Town are the same as for ships. Make sure you visit Immigration on the 5th floor at the "old state warehouse" on the "foreshore" downtown Cape Town as soon as possible after your arrival. If you clear in to Simonstown (which comes under the Cape Town authorities), you must present your whole crew to the officer in town.

Simonstown is located on the NW side of False Bay, some 15 miles North of the Cape of Good Hope. It was once used by the Dutch fleet to hide here from the fierce Westerlies, especially from March to October. When the steamships later on needed a shore base, the harbour was extended to cater for those needs and today it is the base for the South African Navy and some 200 pleasure craft.

Simonstown is a good alternative for those preferring to be away from busy Cape Town, and who don't mind travelling an hour by car to get to the main city. Most of the tradespeople can be found here and those coming from Cape Town visit Simonstown on request.

Docking

The marina, hiding behind substantial wave breakers on the north side of the Navy base, is not yet marked on all international charts, but the approach is easy and well lit. Beware of "Roman Rocks", about 1 mile NE of the main harbour.

Only in strong SE conditions some surge is experienced, otherwise the marina is well sheltered. Boats larger than 52 feet must book prior to arrival as there are very few spaces available to them. As this is becoming a popular spot for visiting yachts in general, booking in advance might be advisable for other boats also.

Post office, shops, hardware, LPG, medical facilities and all other services are found in the shopping street. There are a great number of restaurants for all tastes very near the town and the port is reasonably safe even after dark and there are many security guards on duty.

False Bay Yacht Club
Simonstown, South Africa
Tel:+27 21 786 1703, VHF Channel 16
www.fbyc.co.za, marina@fbyc.co.za
Position: 34° 11.250' S,18° 25.970' E. 220 berths (max length 15 metres). Hard standing for 10-15 boats. 16 ton boat lift. Full service marina with clubhouse and full secretarial services, holding of mail, fax etc. Guest yachts welcome, fair rates, good 24 hour security.