THE WORLD IS THIS HOTEL’S OYSTER WITH NEW 5 STAR PREMIUM GRADING
- O&A Team
- October 30, 2025
- Places
- 5-Star Premium Grading, Oyster Box Hotel, Red Carnation Hotel Collection, TGCSA, Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, Tourism in KZN, Umhlanga
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The iconic Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga is now one of only 23 tourism establishments countrywide and the first hotel in the province to achieve a 5-Star Premium grading via the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA).
This follows the revision of the TGCSA’s Grading Criteria in April 2019 which not only aimed to make the grading system more thorough and consistent but ensured it was in tune with stringent quantitative and qualitative core requirements and quality standards.
The traditional star grading levels of 1 to 5 Stars were augmented with the introduction of a 5 Star “Premium” level which is now regarded as the highest recognition of hospitality excellence in South Africa.
According to TGCSA chief quality assurance officer Bronwen Auret, the grading now conferred on the Oyster Box is a step above five start status and is reserved for exceptional establishments that go beyond luxury, offering world class bespoke experiences that rival the finest international standards.
She acknowledged that this was not easily achieved as it represents a benchmark of distinction that celebrates not only luxury and comfort, but also authentic, world-class service and attention to detail: “This achievement places the property in an elite category, showcasing what is possible when a team commits wholeheartedly to quality, consistency, and innovation. For The Oyster Box, this grading affirms what so many guests from across the world already know – that this is more than a hotel; it is an experience, a home of timeless elegance, and a custodian of South African hospitality.”
She added that, for the city of Durban and the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, this recognition strengthens its positioning as a premier destination for both local and international travellers.
In response to this achievement, KZN Premier, Thami Ntuli, commented that this was not only a testament the excellence and enduring legacy of The Oyster Box but a reflection of KwaZulu-Natal’s world-class standards: “When we speak of The Oyster Box, we speak of a living piece of Durban’s coastal heritage, a place that has for decades captured the essence of elegance, comfort, and timeless service.”
He noted that, in 2009, the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, founder and president of the Inkatha Freedom Party officially reopened this iconic establishment following its loving restoration by the Tollman Family.“Prince Buthelezi’s connection to The Oyster Box was deeply personal. During his visits to Durban, this was his home. In his honour, the Tollman Family dedicated a suite, The Buthelezi Suite, which stands today as a beautiful symbol of respect and remembrance for a man who embodied dignity, leadership, and service to his people.”
He noted that the recognition of The Oyster Box as a Premium 5-Star Hotel was a provincial triumph for KwaZulu-Natal: “The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of our economy. It sustains livelihoods, drives local enterprise, and showcases our province’s best attributes to the world.
That is why we commend the Tollman Family, the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, and every member of The Oyster Box team for your unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and service.”He added that this milestone aligned with government’s tourism strategy to elevate KwaZulu-Natal’s hospitality standards, attract high-value visitors, and create sustainable tourism ecosystems that benefit communities.
“By achieving Premium Status, The Oyster Box has not only raised its own flag higher but has lifted the entire brand of KwaZulu-Natal with it. We hope this recognition inspires other establishments across the province to pursue the same path of excellence, innovation, and authenticity,” he said.
