Robben Island Museum (RIM) has published a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the chartering of passenger ferries to transport visitors to and from the World Heritage Site. The tender, designated RIM-RFP01/2026/27, seeks to appoint qualified service providers for a three-year contract to ensure a safe, comfortable, and reliable visitor experience.

Tender Overview

The RFP aims to secure a logistics solution for transporting visitors between the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront and Robben Island. Bids must be submitted online via the e-Tender portal by 21 September 2026 at 11:00 AM. A non-compulsory virtual briefing session is scheduled for 07 September 2026 at 12:00 PM via Microsoft Teams.

Scope of Work

The appointed service provider will be responsible for comprehensive passenger ferry operations, including:

  • Providing vessels certified to carry a minimum of 50 passengers, with universal accessibility features including space for wheelchairs.
  • Ensuring vessels operate safely in Beaufort Scale 1-6 sea conditions, with a maximum length of 35 meters, beam of 10 meters, and loaded draft not exceeding 2.2 meters.
  • Maintaining passenger spaces with air-conditioning and audiovisual systems for broadcasting museum-provided content.
  • Providing qualified, certified crews trained in safety, emergency procedures, and customer service.
  • Ensuring vessel availability of at least 80% over the contract period.
  • Maintaining all required certifications, including Local General Safety Certificate, Certificate of Registry, Load Line Certificate, Hull Certificate, and Safe Manning Certificate.

Mandatory Requirements

Bidders must submit the following documentation:

  • Valid vessel specifications with internal and external pictures.
  • Proof of experience in similar ferry services.
  • Valid certificates of registry, safety, load line, hull/class, and safe manning.
  • Vessel P&I Insurance to the value of $500 million USD.
  • Past 3 years audited financial statements and proof of funding.
  • CSD report and tax compliance PIN.

Evaluation Process

The evaluation follows a three-stage process:

Stage 1: Mandatory Requirements โ€“ Bidders must submit all required documentation as per paragraph 6 of the Terms of Reference.

Stage 2: Functionality Evaluation โ€“ Bidders must achieve a minimum of 75 points out of 100. Key criteria include Track Record/Experience (20 points), Personnel Suitability (20 points), Vessel Suitability (40 points), and Safety Record (20 points).

Stage 3: Price and Specific Goals โ€“ The 80/20 or 90/10 preference point system applies, with points allocated for Black People Equity, Black Women’s Equity, and Local Economy Empowerment.

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Submission and Enquiries

  • Submission Method: Online via e-Tender portal at https://www.etenders.gov.za/
  • Closing Date: 21 September 2026 at 11:00 AM
  • Contact Person: Molefi Machela
  • Email: MolefiM@robben-island.org.za
  • Telephone: 021-413-4246
  • Briefing Session: 07 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Non-compulsory, virtual)

Tender Documents

Download the full tender document here.

Submit your bid here: RIM-RFP01/2026/27 eSubmission Portal.


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