Angola Cruises

Angola, located on the southwest coast of Africa, is a country rich in natural beauty and diverse landscapes, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking scenery. Known for its stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, vast savannas, and numerous national parks, Angola is an increasingly popular cruising destination. Fun fact: The Kalandula Falls in Angola is one of the largest waterfalls in Africa, cascading over 105 meters—what a sight to behold! A cruise to Angola gives you the chance to explore vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes, all while experiencing the warmth of Angolan hospitality.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Angola

• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Angola. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky are popular choices, known for their freestyle cruising concept, which provides guests the flexibility to dine when and where they wish. The Norwegian Dawn is particularly appreciated for its lively entertainment options and spacious amenities. Departures typically occur from Cape Town or Barcelona, ensuring easy access to discover the beauty of Angola.
• Princess Cruises has a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 focused on itineraries that include Angola. The Enchanted Princess and Royal Princess are known for their luxurious accommodations, multiple dining venues, and engaging entertainment options. These ships usually depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, making it easy for cruisers eager to explore the southern African coastline.
• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 featuring itineraries that highlight Angola. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam focus on exceptional service and cultural enrichment activities onboard. Departures commonly happen from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, allowing for smooth access to the captivating ports along the Angolan coast.
• Carnival Cruise Line consists of a fleet of 27 ships with 3 offering itineraries to Angola. The Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa are notable for their family-friendly environment and a variety of entertainment options, including pools and water slides. Departures typically occur from Galveston or Miami, ensuring convenient embarkation for cruise travellers.
• P&O Cruises features a fleet of 7 ships, with 5 dedicated to itineraries that include Angola. The Azura and Arcadia are especially favoured for their engaging onboard activities and relaxed atmosphere. Departures usually happen from Southampton or Barbados, allowing UK cruisers easy access to this spectacular destination.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Angola

• Oceania Cruises includes a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries featuring Angola. The Insignia and Marina are highly regarded for their upscale amenities and culinary excellence, offering a diverse selection of onboard dining showcasing local and international cuisine. Departures typically occur from Miami or Rome, providing wonderful access to this vibrant region of Africa.
• Explora Journeys operates 2 ships, both featuring itineraries to Angola. The EXPLORA I and II focus on wellness and luxury experiences, providing a serene environment for guests. Departures typically take place from Miami or San Juan, ensuring a plush start to your journey through the captivating coastal landscapes.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 that sail to Angola. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are known for their immersive local experiences and the opportunity to explore unique ports of call. Departures usually happen from Miami or Lisbon, enhancing your overall exploration through the region.
• Seabourn features a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 2 dedicated to visiting Angola. The Seabourn Ovation promises an all-inclusive luxury experience, featuring spacious suites and fine dining options while providing exceptional on-board service. Departures are most common from London or Barcelona, setting the tone for a refined cruise experience.
• Fred Olsen has a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 that feature itineraries to Angola. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their classic cruising style and friendly service, making them ideal for those seeking a personal touch in their maritime experience. Departures typically occur from Southampton, allowing easy access for UK cruisers excited to explore Africa.

Top Harbours to Discover in Angola

• Luanda – The capital city is known for its mix of modern and colonial architecture. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, or visit the impressive fortress, Fortaleza de São Miguel. The vibrant local markets allow for a taste of the colourful Angolan culture, with a chance to sample traditional dishes such as calulu, a fish stew with vegetables.
• Namibe – This city is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Namibe Desert and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the nearby Serra da Leba mountain pass for incredible views or take a leisurely beach day at Praia da Lapa. The region’s seafood is highly recommended, especially freshly caught fish dishes.
• Cabinda – Located in the northern region of Angola, Cabinda features lush, green terrain, making it a natural paradise. Explore local nature reserves or engage with the vibrant culture by attending local festivals and events. Distinctive local cuisine, like fufu and moamba, are must-tries while exploring the city.
• Malange – An inland city surrounded by stunning landscapes including mountains and rivers. Take a guided tour of the nearby Kalandula Falls—the second-largest waterfall in Africa—or visit the majestic Cuango River to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like funge, made from cassava flour!
• Sumbe – A coastal city with beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy sunbathing or partake in relaxing water sports at the local beaches. The region is known for its fresh seafood; trying a local dish of grilled fish or crab is a must when you’re in town!

When to Cruise to Angola

Angola generally has a tropical climate, which varies from region to region. From January to March, temperatures generally range from 20°C to 30°C, making it a wonderful time to explore without high humidity levels. Spring (April to June) sees similar pleasant temperatures, providing a great opportunity for outdoor adventures and local festivals. The summer months (July to September) can be hotter, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 35°C, but is also a period for celebrations and vibrant local events. Autumn (October to December) allows visitors to enjoy milder temperatures of around 20°C to 30°C, with beautiful landscapes as the rains return!

Costs of Cruising to Angola

A one-week cruise to Angola typically costs between £700 and £1,400, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation. Luxury cruises generally start from around £3,000, with prices that can vary based on the level of service and available amenities. While visiting the region, you can expect to spend approximately £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, with drinks usually costing around £3 to £8, giving you plenty of opportunities to savour authentic Angolan cuisine throughout your adventure.

With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Angola is waiting for you to explore. Start planning your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st today and set sail for an incredible experience in this captivating region!