Since redevelopment started in the late 1980’s the Victoria and Alfred Basis have changed from derelict docks into a pristine and thriving shopping, dining and tourism destination.
The Waterfront company is committed to the conservation of historical buildings and is proud to have several designated national monuments within its boundaries.The Waterfront provides a variety of entertainment for the whole family. Special events and promotions contribute towards the Waterfronts festive atmosphere. Enjoy the spectacle of buskers, street entertainers and musicians, or enjoy lively music and acts at the Amphitheatre. Many restaurants offer live music from jazz to orchestral.
History
On the 17th September 1960 Prince Alfred, Queen Victoria’s second son, tipped the first load of stone into the seat to start construction of the breakwater for Cape Town’s harbour. Soon shipping volumes increased and a larger basis, the Victoria Basin was built. It is from these two harbour basins The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront derives its name. More than a century later, in 1988, the Waterfront Company was announced with a mandate to develop the historic harbour as a mixed use area, focusing on commerce and tourism with the continuing operation of the working harbour.
Leisure Activities
Surrounded by the unique created by the working harbour, visitors can look forward to enjoying scenic views of Table Mountain, the playful antics of the resident population of Cape Fur Seals see throughout the harbour and at Seal Landing. Historic buildings and museums, self guided walks, boat trips, helicopter flips and a visit to a working brewery.
Nobel Square
Noble Square plays tribute to South Africa’s four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, the late Albert Luthuli, Desmond Tutu, FW de Klerk and Nelson Mandela. The larger than life bronze sculptures of the four laureates were created by Claudette Schreuders. Noria Mabasa from Vuwani in Limpopo Province created the fifth sculpture of Peace and Democracy. The narrative work acknowledges the contribution of women and children to the attainment of peace in South Africa.
Two Oceans Aquarium
Submerge yourself in the spectacular marine life found off the South African coastline. Some 3000 fish, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, birds and plants can be seen in this underwater nature reserve., For the more adventurous there are opportunities to dive with the sharks, feed the fish in the Kelp Forest or even experience copper helmet diving first hand.
Shopping
The V& A Waterfront caters for all your shopping needs, from designer clothing boutiques and fashion accessory shops to gift stores and foot outlets.
The Red Shed Craft Workshop is filled with an eclectic, colourful and unique mix of handmade merchandise and art. Hand painted fabrics, hand woven wire bowls, handcrafted wood pieces, township art, exquisite mosaics and pottery are just some of the wondrous wares on offer at this open plan style workshop.
Waterfront Craft Market and Wellness Centre is the flagship of entrepreneurship and microbusiness development in the Waterfront. The vibrant indoor market represents the cream of local craftsmanship and is the ‘ Proudly South African’ showcase of talent. The variety of craft is diverse ranging from innovative deign to traditional handcrafts of old. Giftware, jewellery, home furnishings, ceramics, painted fabrics, woodcarving, fashion and leisurewear are just a few of the items on offer
Eat
There are over 80 places to eat and drink throughout the Waterfront, from fine dining to informal take-aways and coffee shops. Most restaurants and taverns have a superb view of the harbour, tables and chairs on the wharfs and platforms during the summer months.
