The South African Navy is preparing to welcome visitors to the SA Navy Festival 2026 at Naval Base Simon’s Town. The event will run over three days, from Friday, 17 April to Sunday, 19 April.

The festival will offer free entry, with gates open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. It gives members of the public a rare chance to step inside one of South Africa’s key naval bases and experience military life up close, according to Cape Town Etc.

Visitors can explore ships and displays

Festival Goers will be able to board selected vessels during the event, including a Type 209 submarine. Guided tours will also give visitors a closer look at the fleet and how the navy operates.

Cape Town Etc, citing Smile FM, reported that the programme includes precision drills, live music by the SA Navy Band and demonstrations by specialised teams. These teams will showcase search and rescue skills, as well as firefighting capabilities.

The line-up is aimed at blending education with entertainment, giving families and visitors a hands-on look at naval work while keeping the atmosphere lively.

Train travel and night firing on the cards

People planning to attend will also have a public transport option. Train services are set to operate on Saturday and Sunday, offering a scenic route from Cape Town to Simon’s Town. Return tickets will cost R20.

One of the major highlights is expected on Saturday evening. A gunnery exercise and pyrotechnics night firing display is scheduled to take place at the Lower North Battery from 4 pm to 10:30 pm.

That event is likely to be one of the festival’s biggest crowd-pullers, offering a dramatic end to the day’s programme.

Simon’s Town set for a busy weekend

With ship tours, military demonstrations and live entertainment all on the programme, the SA Navy Festival is set to draw strong public interest.

Cape Town Etc reported that the event promises a mix of action, learning and spectacle. For many visitors, it will be a chance to see the navy’s work up close while enjoying a day out in Simon’s Town.

For those looking for something different this April, the festival offers a free and uniquely South African maritime experience.