CAPE TOWN – Robben Island visitors were shocked to find their return trip to shore was disrupted after a mechanical failure on board the Jester ferry on Friday 28 August, forcing assistance to be called to get the vessel back to Cape Town.

The ferry was on its way to Nelson Mandela Gateway when the problem occurred and left both visitors and staff members stranded.

The mechanical failure left passengers temporarily delayed at sea before an emergency escort brought them safely back to port.

According to reports, Robben Island Museum issued an apology and said there was a “significant delay” before assistance was provided.

All passengers were able to disembark safely once the ferry reached the Gateway.

Robben Island Museum said emergency measures were put in place after the ferry ran into trouble, with getting passengers back into the harbour the priority.

Reports added that the museum acknowledged that some have had onward travel or other arrangements affected by the late return and apologised for the delays.

The cause of the mechanical failure is being assessed, Robben Island said.

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