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Managing Organization:
National Ports Authority
Notes:
The first simple beacon was established here in 1657. The name "Robben" comes from the Dutch word for seals. There was once a leper colony on the island, and Nelson Mandela was in the prison on the island, which no longer exists, from 1964 to 1982. Tower Height: 59 Height of Focal Plane: 154 Characteristic and Range: One five-second white flash every seven seconds, visible for 24 nautical miles. Description of Tower: White, conical, masonry tower with red lantern.
This light is operational
Date Established: 1865 Date Present Tower Built: 1865 Current Use: Active aid to navigation. Open To Public? Grounds only. Museum?
The island, except for the light station, is now a museum. See www.robben-island.org.za for details. Directions:
From Cape Town, ferries to Robben Island take about 30-40 minutes. Call +27 21 419 1510 for information. Keepers: Joseph Kannemeyer (c. 1999)
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