By: Byron Lukas
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sleep beneath the legendary gaze of Orlando Pirates players while Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain looms outside your window, the Protea Hotel Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge is calling your name.
This isn’t just a place to rest your head; it’s a football fan’s fantasy and a historic escape rolled into one.
A Prison Reborn into Soccer Royalty
Once a 19th-century prison, the hotel has undergone an impressive transformation into a modern space with old-soul character.
Perfectly positioned within Cape Town’s bustling V&A Waterfront precinct, the lodge offers postcard-worthy views, unbeatable location convenience, and a surprisingly emotional connection for Buccaneers supporters.
I recently spent two nights at this uniquely themed hotel and stayed in the Orlando Pirates Room, a dedicated tribute to South Africa’s Soweto giants. Black-and-white décor, framed memorabilia, trophies, and subtle nods to club pride made it feel like I’d scored the winning goal… in style.
Think locker room energy meets plush bedding, flat-screen TV, aircon, mini-fridge, and a view that shouts, “Goal!”
Themed Stay, Timeless Comfort
The Pirates room is next-level, but the rest of the hotel holds its own. If you’re not a football fan, don’t walk the plank just yet. The property’s character extends beyond sport, offering heritage charm, modern design, and a buzzing vibe thanks to its shared campus with UCT’s Graduate School of Business.
There are 18 flexible conference venues, a tranquil spa, and warm, thoughtful touches throughout that blend leisure with professionalism.

Food Worth Cheering For
Match-day cravings? Head straight to the hotel restaurant. From early morning coffees to late-night ribs (highly recommended), the food is fresh, flavourful, and delivered with heart.
The staff? Absolute MVPs. Friendly, fun, and always ready with a local song, or was that really ‘Via Orlando’ humming in the background?
Extras That Score Big
✔️ Super-fast free Wi-Fi
✔️ Secure parking & airport transfers
✔️ Cosy wine nooks with killer mountain views
✔️ History around every corner, Nelson Mandela is rumoured to have loved this spot
Final Whistle
Whether you’re a die-hard Buccaneers fan or just looking for a quirky, comfortable Cape Town stay with standout character, Protea Hotel Breakwater Lodge delivers.
Book the Pirates Room. Order the ribs. Snap the Table Mountain selfie. Thank me later.
Need to Know
📍 Location: Portswood Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
📞 Reservations: proteahotels.marriott.com
🎥 Watch the vibe: #PiratesRoom #BreakwaterLodge
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