The South African Navy, in partnership with the Naval Heritage Trust (NHT), officially opened Africa’s first submarine museum on 30 April in Simon’s Town. The SAS Assegaai Submarine Museum marks a historic achievement in preserving the continent’s naval legacy.
The SAS Assegaai, a decommissioned Daphne-class submarine, was relocated to its permanent museum site in July 2024 after a complex land transport operation. A soft public opening took place in December, offering visitors a rare look into underwater naval operations.
The launch ceremony was attended by SA Navy Chief Vice Admiral Monde Lobese and Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, alongside veterans, NHT volunteers, and major donors such as Damen and Vanguard Heavylift. Admiral Lobese hailed the museum as a tribute to the brave submariners who served aboard and a critical step in educating future generations.
Built in France and formerly known as SAS Johanna van der Merwe, the Assegaai is the last of her class, with her two sister vessels having been scrapped. Initially opened as a museum between 2010 and 2015, the submarine was closed due to hull deterioration and only recently found a suitable permanent home on dry land.
The NHT, founded in 1994, has long advocated for naval heritage preservation, learning from past efforts like the failed preservation of the WWII minesweeper SAS Pietermaritzburg. NHT Chair Michael Bosazza emphasized the importance of the Assegaai as a symbol of South Africa’s maritime past and technical ingenuity.
Vice Admiral Lobese expressed hopes that the museum would inspire youth interest in the submarine service, while Mayor Hill-Lewis praised the deep ties between Cape Town and the Navy.
The SAS Assegaai remains the property of the South African Navy and will be managed by the NHT. The museum is now open daily to the public at Cole Point Gate, Simon’s Town.