Assegaai Submarine Museum
About This Museum
What truly sets the Assegaai Submarine Museum apart is that you don't just look at a submarine—you get to climb inside a real one. This isn't a replica; it's the SAS Assegaai herself, a decommissioned Daphné-class submarine that once patrolled the South African coast during the Cold War. Stepping through its narrow hatch transports you directly into the cramped, complex world of submariners. It’s an incredibly hands-on history lesson where you can almost hear the echoes of sonar pings and feel the tension of a submerged patrol.
Collection Highlights
The main event is exploring the sub's labyrinthine interior, from the control room with its original periscopes and diving planes to the torpedo tubes and tiny crew bunks. On land, exhibits showcase naval uniforms, detailed models of other vessels, and fascinating artifacts that tell the story of South Africa's submarine service.
Visitor Information
Be prepared for tight spaces and steep ladders—it’s not great for anyone with mobility issues or a serious fear of confined spaces. The staff, often ex-navy personnel, are fantastic storytellers who bring the whole experience to life with personal anecdotes. It’s a surprisingly quick but utterly memorable visit that both kids and adults find thrilling.
Architecture & Building
The museum is essentially the submarine itself, permanently berthed on land at Simon's Town naval base, so its 'architecture' is all functional Cold War-era marine engineering—a long, sleek steel hull designed for stealth and survival.
Contact & Location
Address: King George Way, Seaforth, Cape Town Ward 61, Simon's Town, City of Cape Town, Western Cape, 7995, South Africa
Phone: +27 21 787 4786
Website: Visit Website
