Cape Town’s global reputation as a luxury travel destination is poised for a dramatic uplift with the arrival of two major hotel projects in the iconic V&A Waterfront. Together valued at R2 billion, the upcoming Quay 7 Hotel and the fully refurbished Table Bay Hotel are set to redefine the standards of ultra-luxury hospitality in South Africa, further positioning Cape Town as a leader in high-end tourism.
As international tourism rebounds in 2025, these developments highlight a renewed focus on attracting affluent travelers who demand exclusivity, design sophistication, and impeccable service. Scheduled to open in March 2026, the Quay 7 Hotel and the modernized Table Bay Hotel will collectively contribute to job creation, tourism infrastructure, and global visibility for Cape Town’s hospitality industry.
Quay 7 Hotel: A Bold New Landmark in Waterfront Luxury
Set to open its doors in March 2026, the Quay 7 Hotel is a striking new development that embodies contemporary luxury in the heart of the V&A Waterfront. Developed at a cost of R1 billion, the hotel will feature 142 ultra-luxurious rooms and six fully serviced apartments, catering to both short-stay business travelers and long-term elite guests.
The design ethos of Quay 7 draws heavily from Scandinavian minimalism, characterized by clean architectural lines, natural materials, and a muted palette that fosters a calming and upscale ambiance. This commitment to aesthetic refinement places the hotel in a class of its own among Cape Town’s luxury offerings.
Quay 7 is expected to be managed as part of Marriott International’s prestigious Edition brand, known for offering six- and seven-star service globally. The Edition Hotels collection is synonymous with bespoke hospitality experiences, and its entry into Cape Town marks a significant milestone in the city’s tourism evolution.
Strategic Investment Backed by Local Giants
The development of Quay 7 Hotel is a collaborative venture between two of South Africa’s leading investment institutions—Growthpoint Properties and the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). This powerful alliance reflects confidence in Cape Town’s rising appeal to high-end travelers and underscores the Waterfront’s growing value as a luxury node within the city.
Beyond tourism appeal, the investment is expected to stimulate employment and supplier ecosystems in the region. With an emphasis on global design and South African hospitality talent, Quay 7 is primed to deliver a seamless experience that appeals to discerning international guests while celebrating local character.
The Table Bay Hotel: A R1 Billion Heritage Reimagined
Not to be outdone, the iconic Table Bay Hotel is undergoing a massive R1 billion refurbishment, ensuring it maintains its stature as one of Cape Town’s premier accommodations. Originally opened nearly 30 years ago and positioned at the confluence of the harbor and the mountain, the hotel has long been a symbol of luxury and elegance.
Owned by the V&A Waterfront and operated by Sun International, the Table Bay Hotel began renovations in early 2025, with a full reopening expected in early 2026. The renovations aim to marry classic charm with modern opulence, including fully upgraded guest rooms, reimagined dining experiences, and a state-of-the-art wellness spa.
Guests will continue to enjoy iconic views of Table Mountain and the harbor, now complemented by world-class amenities and contemporary interior design. The transformation ensures that the Table Bay Hotel remains competitive with new luxury entrants while preserving its historic identity.
V&A Waterfront: Cape Town’s Luxury Epicenter
The V&A Waterfront is already one of South Africa’s most visited destinations, drawing millions annually with its combination of retail, culinary, cultural, and leisure attractions. The arrival of two new billion-rand hotel projects cements its position as the nucleus of luxury tourism in Cape Town.
By expanding the area’s high-end accommodation offerings, both Quay 7 and the refurbished Table Bay Hotel are expected to stimulate increased overnight visitor spending, particularly among international guests from North America, Europe, and the Middle East seeking exclusive experiences in Africa.
According to South Africa’s Department of Tourism, the country’s international arrivals are forecast to surpass pre-pandemic levels by 2026, driven by strong recovery in premium segments. The V&A Waterfront, enhanced by these luxury additions, is poised to capture a significant share of that growth.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Beyond hospitality, these projects promise broader benefits for Cape Town’s economy. They are projected to support hundreds of direct and indirect jobs during construction and ongoing operations, as well as bolster South Africa’s position in global tourism rankings.
In addition, they are expected to contribute significantly to Cape Town’s GDP, enhance city branding, and increase demand across other sectors such as transport, retail, and events. The investment also signals confidence in South Africa’s stable investment climate for global hospitality brands and investors.
Conclusion
With the forthcoming debut of Quay 7 Hotel and the dramatic transformation of the Table Bay Hotel, Cape Town is poised to redefine itself as a global leader in luxury tourism. Together, these R2 billion investments mark a turning point for the city’s high-end travel offerings and reflect a strong upward trend in demand for world-class hospitality experiences.
Whether catering to business elites, honeymooners, or globe-trotting connoisseurs of luxury, these hotels will offer unmatched levels of comfort, service, and design. As Cape Town steps into a new era of luxury hospitality, the world is watching—and booking.
These landmark developments not only elevate Cape Town’s skyline but also its standing on the world map, ensuring it remains a magnet for high-spending travelers for years to come.
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