Take a memorable trip from Cape Town to Simon’s Town on the “Explorer’s Train.” Experience something different with this historic passenger train, drawn by a steam locomotive. During the trip passengers may socialise at the bar, read a book, admire the views, hang out with loved ones, or just shut their eyes and allow their senses to transport them to a bygone era. The Cape Town steam train adventure is a delightful 3-hour rail excursion that promises an unforgettable ride across the picturesque Cape scenery to the quaint seaside village of Simon’s Town. The train departs in the morning, from the Harbour Bridge Platform (AC Marriot Hotel) in Cape Town.
On arriving at Simon’s Town around 11:00, you will have plenty of time to explore the scenery, shops, local museums, and have a leisurely lunch. From the centre of town, the station is about 600 metres away, making for a pleasant stroll. There are additional transportation options available from the station, that include TukTuks, shuttles and mini-buses. The train departs from Simon’s Town around 14:30 and return you to Cape Town by about 18:30. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime Cape Town steam train adventure – reserve your place today and come along to discover the charm of Simon’s Town!
Simon’s Town is one of South Africa’s oldest towns and Naval base. Things to do include visiting the Toy and Navy museums and the African Penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach, learn more about Just Nuisance, the most famous dog in Naval History. Also visit the Jubilee Square for souvenirs, and explore the great selection of vintage, second-hand and charity shops in town.
Historical Facts of the Steam Train Railway Track
Completed in 1862, the first steam train route in the Cape connected Cape Town with Eerste River, a town that currently forms part of the Eastern Suburbs zone of Cape Town. The route was expanded to cover Wellington and Stellenbosch towns in less than a year. The Ceres Railway track was constructed in the beginning of the 20th century – work began in 1910 and was finished in 1912.
Ceres Rail Steam Train Trips & Other Information:
- Nostalgic Steam train Trips from Cape Town to Simonstown (return trip).
- Steam train Trips from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market (return trip).
- Functions & Events – available for charters for your company events and other corporate functions.
- Photoshoots & Filming – assist the filming industry when they require locomotives, coaches or other related equipment, and finding the perfect scenery backdrops along the various railway lines.
- The train can accommodate up to 240 passengers.
- One of the coaches is a lounge car with a full cash bar service on board.
- Beverage service (watrons) throughout the train can be arranged.
The goal of Ceres Rail Company is preserving and promoting South African rail heritage through the restoration and modernization of vintage locomotives and carriages. We enjoy sharing this with people of all ages, which is why, since 2016, we have made it our mission to “Let History Transport You”.
