SAS Assegaai Makes Big Move Towards Museum Debut!

Jul 01, 2024

Thanks to the incredible support of our Sponsors and Bunk Owners, a 21-year dream is becoming a reality!

We are thrilled to announce that with your generous contributions and a one-off grant from the City of Cape Town Mayoral Fund, we've reached our initial fundraising target of R2 million!

Setting Sail for a New Home:

This critical milestone allows us to move forward with the exciting relocation of the SAS Assegaai to its permanent museum site. On June 25th, we signed a contract with Vanguard, the largest heavy lift company in the Southern Hemisphere, to undertake this monumental task. The very same day, the SAS Assegaai was meticulously positioned in preparation for its journey.

SAS Assegaai in it's lifting position (N3)

A Challenging Move

Moving a 58-meter, 700-ton submarine overland for 350 meters is no easy feat! Our team is diligently preparing the route, which involves shifting heavy Lamda security walls and clearing a significant 10 metre path through the nearby scrapyard.

Lifting equipment shifting the Lamda security walls
Pathway being cleared in the scrapyard

Witnessing History (Limited Spots Available)

The actual move is planned for July 8th or 9th, weather permitting. Due to security restrictions and the slow pace of the operation, public viewing opportunities will be limited. However, the event will be video recorded, allowing everyone to be a part of this historic moment.

For those interested in a unique, "front row seat" experience, we have a limited number of spots available at the Seven Seas Club. Please contact us at (082) 807 8073 for updates on the move's progress and to inquire about securing a spot at the Seven Seas Club (even non-members can be accommodated).

Planned route to move the SAS Assegaai

The Future of the SAS Assegaai Museum

Once the SAS Assegaai reaches its new home, the exciting work of transforming it into a museum will begin. We will focus on installing access doors, building stairs for visitor access, and developing captivating exhibits. Our goal is to open the museum doors by the end of this year.

The restoration of the outer hull will be the final phase of the project, commencing once additional funds are secured. In the meantime, we will be busy creating engaging displays and installing simulators within the renovated exhibit area.

We are also erecting a special "donation wall" to honor all our generous sponsors and donors. Please confirm the title/name you would like displayed on this wall by contacting us.

A Heartfelt Thank You!

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who has contributed to making this 21-year dream a reality! Your support has been instrumental in bringing the SAS Assegaai story to life! We look forward to welcoming you to the grand opening of the SAS Assegaai Museum in the not-so-distant future.