Robben Island, which means "Seal Island" in Dutch, was first discovered by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488. For many years thereafter it was used by the Portuguese, British and Dutch sailors as an outpost and resting location. However, in 1591 the Khoikhoi tribe, tired of the unfair trading practices of the Europeans, attacked the outposts on Robben Island. Unfortunately, they were no match for the gun powder of the Europeans and sadly they lost the battle. The survivors of this battle were left on Robben Island without any food or water and hence these unwilling tribe members became the first of many prisoners of Robben Island.

Autshumato became the first political prisoner in 1658, he was exiled to Robben Island because he took back cattle that was believed to have been unfairly confiscated by the European settlers. Even under British ruling Robben Island was used for the unruly and unsuitable. However, as time went on Robben Island was used more as a hospital which housed the mentally ill, lepers and the diseased. However, the 1930's saw the recognition of Robben Island for it's importance as a military base. Most of the buildings were burned to eliminate the chance of an epidemic and the lepers were sent to mainland hospitals.

New buildings were constructed, the water system was improved and some of the most advanced military weapons were developed on the island. The importance of Robben Island as a prison, however, did not die. With the National Party in firm control and the passage of the Apartheid Act, Robben Island again began to be used in 1961 as a political prison. However, the conditions of the prison facilities reached an all time low. A cell made to house twenty men was crammed with sixty prisoners. Unfortunately the prison was an institution that perpetuated segregation and racism. Hundreds of thousands of people died for the colour of their skin and their ideas. With the free election of Mr Nelson Mandela in 1991, Robben Island was officially closed forever.

Today Robben Island acts as a reminder of the horror of the past and as a tribute to those who gave their lives and their freedom for the right to liberty.

The Robben Island ferry leaves at various times throughout the day from the Clock Tower at the Waterfront and includes an enjoyable boat trip as well as a tour around the island.