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Cape Town’s most unusual open day is back, as the 2026 SA Navy Festival takes over the East Dockyard at Simon’s Town Naval Base this weekend.
The Festival runs from Friday, 17 April to Sunday, 19 April, from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free of charge.
If you’ve never made the trip before, this is one of the few chances to step inside one of the country’s most historic military sites and get a closer look at the fleet that calls False Bay home.
This year’s programme will include guided tours of selected naval vessels, including a Type 209 submarine, alongside live demonstrations, capability displays and performances by the SA Navy Band. Specialised units such as search and rescue and firefighting teams are also expected to be part of the action.
In addition to the ship tours and military displays, visitors can expect food stalls, children’s entertainment and a festive atmosphere around the dockyard.
If you’re planning to go, the smart move is to take the train.
Metrorail Western Cape says trains will run between Cape Town and Simon’s Town on Saturday and Sunday, with return tickets a bargain at R20. Trains will run roughly every hour, but you can find the full train schedule here. With the festival expected to draw big crowds, public transport is likely to be much easier than trying your luck with finding parking in Simon’s Town.
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