Restoration work being done on SAS Assegaai to turn the submarine into a museum is in full swing with the next phase focused on preparing it for public viewing.

Retired Rear Admiral Arne Söderlund, a trustee of the Naval Heritage Trust (NHT), gave the Echo exclusive access to the submarine following its relocation to the western end of the Cole Point parking area.

“We are very relieved and excited that she will soon be open,” said Rear Admiral Söderlund.

The restoration process had been planned meticulously, with key stages set to ensure the submarine was ready for the SA Navy Festival in October and the grand opening in December, he said.

“During the festival weekend, visitors will enter through the front gate, get a close-up view of the submarine, touch it, and then enjoy the rest of the festival.”

According to Rear Admiral Söderlund, the primary focus of the restoration at this stage is the interior, where the doors have been cut, which is relatively minor.

“We are now cutting two doors in the hull and manufacturing the stairs to them. At the same time, we need to connect power supplies for lighting and ventilation, and prepare the site and buildings to meet safety and health requirements, including upgraded toilet facilities.”

The main restoration, involving the outer hull for appearance, will be carried out once the submarine is open and as funds allow.

“We aim to have the access and power connections operational and the shore facilities ready by early October. By early December, we plan to enhance the boat’s appearance by removing unnecessary structures from the casing and applying a temporary paint scheme to cover rust and white stains.”

Replating and painting the sub’s rounded hull would prove challenging due to the height and difficulty in securing scaffolding, he said.

Rear Admiral Söderlund said the project had received considerable support from the community, but donations were still needed to speed up the restoration work.

“Numerous sponsors have donated paint, materials and services, including the loan of scaffolding and building work ashore. One ex-submariner has sponsored all the toilet fittings, including a disabled suite, while a local building contractor and ex-submariner is working ‘at cost’.”

Depending on the size of their donations, donors have the chance to have their names displayed on plaques inside the sub.

“The tiers are R10 000 for a bunk, R30 000 for the wardroom, and R50 000 for the captain’s cabin.”

Revealing plans not yet widely known, Rear Admiral Söderlund said the site housing the submarine would eventually also feature a strike craft and three historic ships.

Plans also include a shop where visitors can buy tickets and a dedicated space for historic displays.

Volunteers would be needed to run tours, sell merchandise and help with educational programmes, among other things, he said.

The submarine is now visible through the gate next to the National Sea Rescue Institute, and Rear Admiral Söderlund hopes this will generate further interest and support.

“One of our great advantages for visitors is that we will be open in all weather in the future, as there are few places drier than inside a submarine.”

Rear Admiral Söderlund says the sub’s regulating tanks, which are crucial for its stability, will likely be covered with perspex to provide the public with a clear view.

Restoration work is being done to have the sub ready in time for the SA Navy Festival in October.