Southern Africa Cruises

Southern Africa is a captivating region known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich wildlife. From the stunning coastlines along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans to the majestic mountains and sprawling savannahs, this area offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. Did you know that Southern Africa is home to the famous Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceroses? A cruise to Southern Africa allows you to explore the diverse beauty of the region, from the bustling city life of Cape Town to the serene beaches of the Eastern Cape, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort of your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Southern Africa

• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Southern Africa. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky are particularly popular, boasting a plethora of exciting onboard activities such as spas, pools, and a variety of live entertainment options. The Norwegian Dawn is especially known for its diverse dining options, featuring cuisine inspired by the destinations visited. Departures happen most frequently from Cape Town or Port Louis, providing a convenient access point for your adventure.
• P&O Cruises includes a fleet of 7 ships, with 5 that offer itineraries to Southern Africa. The Arvia and Britannia stand out for their array of leisure options and engaging entertainment. These ships offer everything from swimming pools to theatre shows, ensuring there’s always something to do onboard. Typically, they depart from Southampton or Barbados, making it easy to start your journey to Southern Africa.
• Cunard operates a sophisticated fleet of 4 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries including Southern Africa. The Queen Anne is known for its opulent atmosphere and superb service, making for an unforgettable luxury cruise experience. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Rome, providing travelers with accessible embarkation points ahead of their journey.
• Holland America Line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 1 that offers itineraries to Southern Africa. The Oosterdam is celebrated for its elegant dining experiences and cultural enrichment activities that enhance the cruise experience. Departures typically occur from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, ensuring smooth entry into the wonders of the region.
• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 1 offering itineraries that include Southern Africa. The MSC Musica is known for its beautiful interiors and variety of entertainment options, providing a memorable cruise experience. Departures usually happen from Durban or Cape Town, creating easy access for travelers eager to explore this stunning region.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for Southern Africa

• Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 offering itineraries that include Southern Africa. The Nautica and Insignia are known for their luxurious ambience and culinary excellence, focusing on high-quality dining experiences. These ships typically embark from ports such as Cape Town or Lisbon, ensuring that you have an exquisite start to your African adventure.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries that feature Southern Africa. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are particularly celebrated for their small-ship experience and unique shore excursions, offering late-night port stays for deeper engagement with local cultures. Departures usually take place from Miami or Barbados, giving you an excellent launch point into your Southern African journey.
• Seabourn operates a fleet of 5 luxury ships, with 2 that explore Southern Africa. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn are known for their ultra-luxury cruising experience, with spacious suites and all-inclusive amenities. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Barcelona, providing a sophisticated entry into your stunning coastal experience.
• Explora Journeys features a fleet of 2, both encompassing itineraries to Southern Africa. The EXPLORA I and II focus on luxury travel and wellness experiences, promising relaxation and indulgence during your journey. Departures typically happen from Barcelona or Miami, creating a refined transition to your Southern African adventure.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 that offers itineraries to Southern Africa. The Bolette is particularly appealing for its charming atmosphere and personalized service, catering to those who enjoy a relaxed cruising experience. Most departures occur from Southampton, providing easy access for UK guests eager to sail into this vibrant region.

Top Harbours to Explore in Southern Africa

• Cape Town – Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cape Town is home to the iconic Table Mountain. Take a cable car ride or hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the city and ocean. Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining, or venture into the Cape Winelands to experience South Africa‘s renowned wine culture.
• Durban – This coastal city boasts beautiful beaches and a rich cultural diversity. Visit the bustling Golden Mile beachfront, explore the uShaka Marine World, or stroll through the vibrant Victoria Market. Sample local delicacies like bunny chow, a deliciously spiced curry served in half a loaf of bread.
• Walvis Bay, Namibia – Known for its unique lagoon and abundant marine life, Walvis Bay is a fantastic stop for wildlife enthusiasts. Watch for seals and dolphins in the bay, or partake in exciting sandboarding activities in the nearby Namib Desert. Don’t miss the chance to join a kayaking tour to get up close to the local fauna!
• Port Elizabeth – Often called “The Friendly City,” Port Elizabeth is renowned for its sandy beaches and historical significance. Explore the Boardwalk Entertainment Precinct for dining, shopping, and nightlife, or visit the nearby Addo Elephant National Park for wildlife sightings. Local eateries offer scrumptious dishes, especially seafood and traditional South African braai (barbecue).
• Namibia (Lüderitz) – This quaint fishing town portrays a different side of Southern Africa, with its German colonial architecture and stunning coastal scenery. Explore the charming streets, visit the Lüderitz Museum for local history or take a boat tour to see the beautiful penguin colonies on the nearby Halifax Island.

When to Cruise to Southern Africa

Southern Africa has a diverse climate, making it a year-round destination for cruisers. From January to March, summer reigns with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for beach activities and exploring the rich natural landscapes. Autumn (April to June) sees temperatures cool down to around 10°C to 25°C, making it a fantastic time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Winter months (July to September) can be cool, averaging between 5°C to 20°C, a great time for hiking and exploring cities with fewer tourists. As spring arrives (October to December), temperatures rise again, providing pleasant weather with average figures between 15°C to 25°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.

Costs of Cruising to Southern Africa

A typical one-week cruise to Southern Africa usually costs between £700 and £1,600, with prices varying depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation selected. Luxury cruises generally start at around £3,500 and can rise further based on desired experiences and services. While visiting, you can expect to spend around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants; drinks usually range from £3 to £8, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavours of Southern African cuisine.

The enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences of Southern Africa are calling. Now is the time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and embark on an extraordinary journey through this vibrant region!