After nearly three decades of welcoming guests from around the world, Sun International’s beloved Grand Dame, The Table Bay Hotel, officially closed its doors on 15 February to embark on an exciting journey of transformation.
Come December 2025, the hotel will reopen as InterContinental Table Bay, Cape Town, following a major refurbishment that will elevate its offering while preserving its signature warmth and hospitality. Sun International will continue to manage and operate the hotel on behalf of the V&A Waterfront (Pty) Ltd, the property owner and developer, under a new franchise agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies.
Reflecting on this moment, Table Bay General Manager Joanne Selby shared, “Our last guests checked out on Saturday, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter. As we pack up furniture, fixtures, and cherished memories, we do so with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. This is not goodbye – it’s au revoir. When we reopen, the heart of The Table Bay will remain the same: our incredible staff, whose warmth and dedication have made this hotel feel like home to so many.”
In a testament to the hotel’s enduring spirit, staff will stay on and will return for the grand reopening. “Over the years, we’ve welcomed guests who first visited as children, then returned with their own families. Some even made The Table Bay their home because of the deep connections they formed here. While the hotel’s look may change, its soul – its people – will remain unchanged,” said Selby.
Since its grand opening in May 1997, graced by Nelson Mandela, The Table Bay has been a beacon of world-class hospitality. From royalty and rock stars to world leaders and sports legends – including England’s famous Barmy Army, who once drank the bar dry in 2016 – it has hosted some of the most remarkable guests.
Sun International CEO Anthony Leeming reflected, “For almost 30 years, we have proudly owned and operated The Table Bay, positioning it as an award-winning icon of elegance and excellence. While this marks the end of an era, we eagerly anticipate its next chapter. Together with the V&A Waterfront and IHG, Sun International is honoured to be part of this incredible Hotel’s transformative journey to becoming an InterContinental Hotel, at what is undeniably one of the best Hotel addresses in the world, and to delivering an even greater experience for our guests”.
The InterContinental Table Bay, Cape Town will feature 306 beautifully designed rooms and suites, offering breathtaking views of Table Mountain, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean. Guests will continue to enjoy direct access to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, home to world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors each year.
As one chapter closes, a thrilling new one begins—promising an even more spectacular future for this legendary Cape Town icon.
