North Africa Cruises

North Africa is a captivating region rich in history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, offering an extraordinary adventure for cruisers. Known for its iconic cities like Marrakech and Tunis, as well as its enchanting Sahara Desert and Mediterranean coastlines, a cruise is an excellent way to explore this vibrant area while enjoying the comforts of ship life. Fun fact: North Africa is home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, including the ancient Egyptians! As you glide along this beautiful coastline, you’ll encounter fascinating historical sites, bustling markets, and opportunities to savour delectable local cuisine, making your journey incredibly enriching.

Major Cruise Lines Offering North Africa Adventures

• MSC Cruises features a fleet of 23 ships, 12 of which are dedicated to itineraries in North Africa. Among the ships, the MSC Grandiosa and MSC Seaside are prominent for their modern amenities and engaging onboard activities. MSC Grandiosa stands out with its impressive theatre and upscale dining options, offering a fantastic cruising experience. Most cruises depart from Barcelona or Rio de Janeiro, setting the stage for an exciting exploration of North Africa’s hidden gems.
• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 focusing on North African itineraries. The Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam are particularly popular, featuring upscale decor and exceptional dining experiences. The Nieuw Statendam provides enriching culinary classes and local guest speakers to enhance your journey. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Athens, providing seamless access to North African adventures.
• Princess Cruises has a fleet of 17 ships, with 7 exploring the wonders of North Africa. The Crown Princess and Island Princess offer a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation, including an adults-only sanctuary and theatres showcasing top-notch performances. These cruises most frequently depart from Sydney, Australia or Rome, ensuring a convenient starting point for your exploration of North Africa’s captivating destinations.
• Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 6 of them dedicated to North Africa. Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Viva are both notable for their freestyle cruising concept, giving guests the freedom to enjoy their journey at their own pace. Sonsider indulging in diverse onboard dining options and exciting activities. Departures are most frequent from Lisbon or Barcelona, making it easy to embark on your adventure.
• Celebrity Cruises operates a fleet of 16 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to North Africa. The Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Infinity are praised for their sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional dining experiences, featuring cuisines curated by renowned chefs. These cruises usually depart from Barcelona or Athens, providing direct access to the region’s stunning coastal cities.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises has a fleet of 8 ships, with 5 dedicated to exploring North Africa. The Nautica and Marina ships are renowned for their elegant decor and exceptional dining experiences, with a focus on local flavours. Expect enriching shore excursions designed to immerse you in the local culture while departing most frequently from Athens or Barcelona, allowing for a seamless transition to your luxurious adventure.
• Explora Journeys features a fleet of 2, with both ships offering itineraries to North Africa. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II are luxurious and focus on holistic well-being with enhanced onboard wellness experiences. These ships typically have departures from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring a refined start to your North African exploration.
• Seabourn operates a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to North Africa. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn exemplify luxury cruising, providing all-inclusive experiences with a high staff-to-guest ratio. Departures most frequently occur from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring you embark in style.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, all of which focus on North Africa itineraries. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey stand out for their immersive destination experiences, offering late-night stays in port, allowing more time to discover local culture and nightlife. Departures occur most frequently from Barcelona or Athens, facilitating easy access to your travel adventure.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to North Africa. The Borealis and Bolette are particularly favoured for their intimate cruising experiences and deep-rooted maritime heritage. Departures typically occur from Liverpool or Portsmouth, adding convenience to your pre-cruise planning.

Exploring North Africa’s Top Harbours

• Casablanca, Morocco – Famous for its vibrant culture and lively markets, Casablanca is a must-visit. Don’t miss the stunning Hassan II Mosque; it’s one of the largest mosques in the world. Opt for a guided tour to delve deeper into the city’s history or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, soaking in coastal views.
• Tangiers, Morocco – This unique port city welcomes visitors with a blend of cultures. Wander through the colourful Medina, visit the Kasbah, and explore the famous American Legation Museum. Consider venturing to the nearby Hercules Caves for breathtaking coastal views if time permits.
• Valletta, Malta – Malta’s capital is rich in history and stunning architecture. Explore the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece, or stroll through the charming streets to discover local artisan shops. Take a break at a local café and try a traditional pastizzi pastry between your explorations.
• Alexandria, Egypt – A historical treasure, Alexandria is famed for its ancient sites. Visit the renowned Bibliotheca Alexandrina or wander the ruins of the ancient Temple of Serapis. Take the time to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood with views of the Mediterranean.
• Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia – Tunis offers a blend of old-world charm and modern life. Explore the captivating Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or make your way to Carthage to see the ruins and ancient history. If you’re feeling adventurous, try freshly made Tunisian cuisine at a local eatery near the port!

The Best Times to Cruise in North Africa

The climate in North Africa varies significantly by season. From January to March, temperatures usually range from 10°C to 20°C, making it an inviting time for exploring ancient sites without the scorching heat. Spring (April to June) sees temperatures rise to 20°C to 30°C, perfect for connecting with local cultures and enjoying outdoor markets. The summer months (July to September) can be quite hot, often reaching upwards of 30°C, but this is also when the region buzzes with life and festivities. As autumn approaches (October to December), temperatures cool back to around 15°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing in pleasant weather.

Costs of Cruising to North Africa

A standard cruise to North Africa typically ranges from £800 to £1,500 for a one-week journey, with luxury cruises starting from about £3,000 and potentially soaring higher based on accommodations and amenities. For those considering a two-week experience, costs can double. Onshore, expect to spend around £10 to £25 for a meal at a traditional restaurant, while local drinks, such as mint tea or Moroccan wine, might cost between £3 and £10.

With its rich culture, stunning coastal cities, and captivating landscapes, North Africa is a destination that should not be overlooked. Start planning your next adventure now by booking a cruise holiday with Cruise1st, where exciting memories await!