Namibia Cruises

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey to Namibia with CruiseAway

Welcome to Namibia, a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique wildlife. Cruising to Namibia is not only an opportunity to explore its captivating coastlines but also a chance to venture into its extraordinary deserts and national parks. Highlights of this beautiful country include the magnificent **Namib Desert**, the world’s oldest desert, stunning **Fish River Canyon**, and the incredible wildlife in **Etosha National Park**. Fun fact: Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquil natural beauty. A cruise here blends luxury and adventure, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds!

Top Harbours to Visit in Namibia

When you set sail for Namibia, you’ll discover a variety of stunning harbours. Here are five must-visit ports:

• Walvis Bay: Renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, Walvis Bay is your gateway to exploring the area’s breathtaking scenery. Marvel at the stunning pink flamingos that flock to the salt pans, or take a kayak tour to see seals and dolphins up close. Insider tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a scenic quad biking adventure or a gourmet dinner in one of the local seafood restaurants while watching the sunset over the lagoon!
• Cape Town, South Africa: This iconic city serves as a common departure point for cruises heading to Namibia. While in Cape Town, take a cable car ride to the top of **Table Mountain** for panoramic views or visit the charming **Victoria & Alfred Waterfront** for great shopping and dining. Pro tip: Explore the nearby **Cape Winelands** region for wine tasting and excellent landscapes.
• Durban, South Africa: Durban is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Stroll along the **Golden Mile**, visit the **uShaka Marine World**, or take time to explore the rich Zulu culture. Don’t forget to try **bunny chow**, a local dish that serves curry in a hollowed-out loaf of bread—delicious!
• Port Louis, Mauritius: While not in Namibia, Port Louis is often included in cruise itineraries heading to Namibia. It offers a charming mix of Creole, French, and Chinese influences. Visit the **Central Market** for local delicacies or explore **Aapravasi Ghat**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Insider tip: Venture to **Le Caudan Waterfront** for a lively atmosphere with shops, dining, and entertainment.
• Genoa, Italy: As a departure port for several cruises to Namibia, Genoa is steeped in maritime history. Explore the impressive **Aquarium of Genoa**, stroll through the historic district, or treat yourself to some authentic pizza. Pro tip: Make sure to try **focaccia**, a flatbread that is a local specialty!

Best Times to Cruise to Namibia

Timing your cruise to Namibia can greatly enhance your experience. The optimal cruising season is generally from **November to April**, which coincides with the summer months in Southern Africa. During this time, you can expect temperatures ranging from **20°C to 30°C**, perfect for outdoor exploration. The cooler months from **May to October** are ideal for wildlife viewing, particularly in Etosha National Park, as animals tend to gather around the limited water sources. However, the temperature can drop to around **10°C at night**, so pack accordingly!

Cost of Cruising in Namibia

When planning your budget for a cruise to Namibia, expect to pay approximately **$2,200 to $4,000** for a one-week standard cruise, while a two-week cruise might range from **$4,000 to $7,500**. For luxury options, the starting point is typically around **$5,500 to $9,000** for a one-week adventure. The most economical months tend to fall within the shoulder seasons of late spring or early summer, while peak tourist season typically starts in December, causing prices to rise significantly. For dining expenses, budget roughly **$15 to $35** per meal depending on your choice of restaurant or local café.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Namibia Adventures

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **two** of them offer itineraries to Namibia. The **Crown Princess** and **Island Princess** often depart from **Sydney** or **Cape Town**. Princess Cruises is popular for its exceptional onboard activities and entertainment options, with a focus on creating memorable experiences for families and couples alike.
• Cunard: With **four ships** in its fleet, **Queen Anne** often sails to Namibia, departing mainly from **Cape Town**. Cunard is well-known for its refined service and elegant ambience onboard, boasting luxurious dining and entertainment options that elevate the cruising experience.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of **20 ships**, **two** frequently visit Namibia including **Norwegian Dawn** and **Norwegian Sky**. Departures typically take place from **Cape Town** or **Barcelona**. Norwegian is recognized for its freestyle cruising concept, allowing great flexibility in dining and entertainment choices while providing a relaxed onboard environment.
• Holland America Line: With **11 ships**, **one** sails to Namibia—**Zuiderdam**. The ship primarily departs from **Cape Town**. Holland America Line is praised for its cultural immersion programs onshore and the emphasis on exquisite fine dining options onboard, making it a wonderful option for food and culture enthusiasts.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line boasts a fleet of **23 ships**, with **one** offering itineraries to Namibia—the **MSC Musica**, most often departing from **Cape Town**. MSC is renowned for its family-oriented features, including kids clubs and great entertainment options, catering to travelers of all ages.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This cruise line features **six ships**, with **four** sailing to Namibia, particularly the **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Departing often from **Cape Town** or **Barcelona**, Regent Seven Seas offers an all-inclusive luxury experience, providing guests with lavish accommodations and personalized service for an unforgettable cruise experience.
• Oceania Cruises: With **eight ships**, **three** frequent Namibia, including the **Nautica** and **Insignia**. Departures generally occur from **Lisbon** or **Miami**. Oceania is known for its emphasis on gourmet dining and immersive travel experiences, appealing to culinary enthusiasts and culture explorers alike.
• Silversea: This luxury cruise line operates **13 ships**, with **three** that visit Namibia, prominently the **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Muse**. They commonly set sail from **Cape Town** or **Los Angeles**. Silversea focuses on providing exceptional service with a nearly one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio, ensuring every need is catered for during your journey.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, they have **one** ship, the **Seabourn Sojourn**, that sails to Namibia; frequently departing from **Cape Town** or **Mahe**. Seabourn is dedicated to providing ultra-luxury cruises allowing personalized experiences and a high level of service, creating an intimate atmosphere onboard.
• Azamara Cruises: With a total fleet size of **four ships**, **one** visits Namibia including the **Azamara Quest**. Departures mainly take place from **Cape Town** or **Gran Canaria**. Azamara focuses on destination immersion and provides late-night departures at select ports, allowing you to explore even longer into the evening.

Explore Alternative Regions

If Namibia captures your interest but you’re considering other options as well, here are five alternative regions worth exploring:

• South Africa: Offering stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich wildlife, it’s perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
• Canary Islands: Known for their mild climate, gorgeous beaches, and volcanic landscapes, these islands are a tropical paradise within reach.
• Australia: With its own stunning coastlines and diverse wildlife, Australia is a beautiful destination filled with unique experiences that cannot be missed.
• Mediterranean: This region provides its own blend of cultural richness, culinary experiences, and breathtaking scenery that adventurers love exploring.
• Western Africa: Experience vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife, perfect for those longing for an off-the-beaten-path adventure!

With its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, a cruise to Namibia promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t delay—book your unique experience with **CruiseAway** today and set sail for the wonders of this magnificent destination!