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 – Bidders must submit all required documentation as per paragraph 6 of the Terms of Reference.
Stage 2: Functionality Evaluation – 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 – 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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