For surface running, the boat was powered by two SEMT Pielstick 1,300-brake-horsepower (969 kW) diesel engines, each driving a single propeller shaft.

[1] On 20 August 1970, Maria van Riebeeck collided with the French submarine Galatée (also a member of the Daphné class) off Toulon.

Both submarines were badly damaged, with Galatée being forced to run aground to avoid sinking.

[2] The boat received an upgraded sonar and electronics during a mid-life update that was completed in 1992.

[3] Spear was scrapped in Simon's Town by SA Metal and Machinery Co. (Pty) Ltd. during June–July 2003.