Robben Island Museum (RIM) is reviewing proposals from businesses interested in offering new products at the attraction.
This is according to Nomonde Ndlangisa, Senior Manager: Marketing & Tourism, who said RIM had invited interested service providers to submit proposals for “the adaptive use of the island precinct” to expand the current product offering and enhance the visitor experience. “The tenders closed on May 20 and we are now reviewing the proposals submitted. The interest has been overwhelming,” she added.
While the new additions could be a positive development for RIM, tour guides are still concerned about the issues previously raised. However, Francoise Armour, Owner of Tours du Cap, said there had been some changes over the last few months. “The annoying photographers at the boat have disappeared and the guides on the island in the bus no longer solicit tips. Those are the only changes so far that I am aware of and obviously we need much more, but it is a start.”
But Ndlangisa said the photographers were, in fact, still there. “They will always be a feature at the Robben Island Museum. This is our contribution to local economic development by giving these SMMEs an opportunity to provide much-needed income for their families. Most tourists like the photographers and are buying their photographs.”
She added that RIM had had “serious engagements” with the photographers and asked them to act professionally and discreetly at all times. “They are encouraged to be as discreet as possible and keep a reasonable distance from the visitors.”
Armour raised two more concerns following a recent visit. She noticed that more and more of the artefacts in cells had been broken and/or removed, perhaps even stolen. She also said the smaller boats being used did not feel safe. “On one trip passengers were treated to a very frightening bit of piloting and it felt as if the boat was going to capsize and some people got wet. There were no signs of lifejackets and not a word was mentioned to the passengers as to where these were located”.
RIM is not aware of any artefacts in the cells being broken or removed illegally, said Ndlangisa. “Collections being used in exhibitions are assessed on an ongoing basis and their condition is monitored through a programme conducted by out exhibitions team.”
As for the boats, Ndlangisa admitted that RIM had received a few complaints over the use of small vessels perceived to be unsafe. “We have since decided to discontinue the services with the affected ferries. The Ferries Department of RIM has the responsibility to monitor the services offered by any boat company in line with SAMSA regulations. We only make use of boats that meet the SAMSA licensing criteria and we take the safety of our clients very seriously.”
Ndlangisa added that RIM was in the process of acquiring extra ferries to “augment the existing fleet and also meet the increased demand of visitors”.