North Africa Cruises

Embark on an Adventure to North Africa with CruiseAway

Get ready to explore the captivating wonders of **North Africa**, a region rich in history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. A cruise to North Africa is an unforgettable opportunity to delve into ancient civilizations, taste exotic flavours, and experience breathtaking coastal cities. With its unique mix of modernity and tradition, cruisers can marvel at incredible landmarks like the **Pyramids of Giza** in Egypt, the vibrant souks of Marrakech in Morocco, and the serene beaches of Tunisia. Fun fact: North Africa is home to the largest desert in the world, the **Sahara Desert**, covering over 9 million square kilometers! With unforgettable sights awaiting, this is the perfect region for adventure seekers and travel aficionados alike.

Top Harbours to Explore in North Africa

When you set sail for North Africa, these harbours stand out as must-visit destinations:

• Casablanca, Morocco: This bustling port city offers a vibrant blend of culture and commerce. Visit the exquisite **Hassan II Mosque**, one of the largest mosques in the world, where the stunning architecture and ocean views will leave you in awe. Stroll through the **Old Medina** and enjoy some authentic Moroccan cuisine at a local restaurant. Pro tip: Try the local dish, **tagine**, and experience the rich flavours that make Moroccan food famous!
• Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia: As the main port for the capital city of Tunis, this stop is your gateway to ancient history. Don’t miss the captivating **Carthage** ruins and the beautiful **Bardo Museum**, showcasing ancient mosaics. Explore the charming streets of the **Medina** and enjoy a refreshing Tunisian mint tea. Insider tip: Bargaining is common in the markets—don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best deal!
• Valletta, Malta: While technically part of Europe, Valletta serves as an excellent starting point for exploring North Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage city is splendidly preserved, with magnificent fortifications and stunning architecture. Visit **St. John’s Co-Cathedral** and the **Grand Harbour**. Pro tip: Check out the historic **Upper Barracca Gardens** for incredible views over the harbour.
• Málaga, Spain: While known for its beaches, Málaga also serves as a crucial point for North Africa’s exploration. Visit the **Picasso Museum** and **Alcazaba**, a Moorish castle offering stunning views of the city. If you have time, relax on the beach or try some mouthwatering **pescaito frito** (fried fish). Insider tip: The **local markets** are perfect for grabbing fresh produce or local snacks.
• Gibraltar, United Kingdom: A strategic military base, Gibraltar boasts breathtaking views from the **Rock of Gibraltar**. Discover the intriguing history related to its key location and explore the beautiful **gardens** in the area. Don’t miss the chance to take photos with the famous Barbary macaques! Pro tip: Try the local dish, **calentita**, a delicious chickpea flour pancake!

The Ideal Times to Cruise North Africa

To experience North Africa at its best, consider sailing during the shoulder seasons of **April to June** and **September to October**. During these months, temperatures typically range from **20°C to 28°C**, providing you with pleasant weather for sightseeing. Summer months, particularly **July and August**, see temperatures soar to **35°C or more**, with larger crowds visiting popular tourist attractions. For a more enjoyable experience, aim for the milder months!

Understanding the Costs of Cruising in North Africa

A one-week cruise to North Africa generally costs between **$1,700 and $3,200**, while a two-week itinerary can range from **$3,500 to $6,500**. Luxury cruises often start at around **$5,000** for a week. The best times to snag a bargain are from late autumn to early spring, while peak months of **July and August** tend to drive prices up significantly. Dining expenses can vary; budget about **$20 to $50** based on your choice of dining, with street food and local eateries offering more affordable options.

Major Cruise Lines Offering North African Adventures

• MSC Cruises: With **23 ships** and **12** that cruise to North Africa, **MSC Euribia** and **MSC Grandiosa** frequently sail from **Barcelona** or **Marseille**. MSC is an excellent choice for families, known for its engaging onboard activities, diverse dining options, and a variety of entertainment offerings for all ages.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of **11 ships**, **four** offer itineraries to North Africa, including **Oosterdam** and **Nieuw Statendam**. Departing typically from **Sydney** or **Barcelona**, Holland America Line is known for its premium onboard experience and immersive excursions that highlight local culture and heritage.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates **17 ships**, **seven** of which sail to North Africa. The **Crown Princess** and **Island Princess** often set sail from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Fort Lauderdale**. Princess is renowned for its exceptional service and extensive destination options, offering local culinary experiences that allow you to connect with each port of call.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a total of **20 ships**, **six** cruise to North Africa, including **Norwegian Viva** and **Norwegian Sky**. These cruises typically depart from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**. Norwegian’s “freestyle cruising” concept allows guests ultimate dining flexibility and a relaxed onboard atmosphere, making it perfect for cruisers of all ages.
• P&O Cruises: P&O boasts **seven ships**, with **three** offering North African itineraries, including the **Azura** and **Arcadia**. Departing most often from **Valletta** or **Southampton**, P&O is well-regarded for its friendly service, diverse entertainment, and dedication to creating memorable holiday experiences for all guests.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line features **eight ships**, five of which sail to North Africa, with the **Nautica** and **Marina** being popular choices. Departing mostly from **Athens** or **Barcelona**, Oceania is known for its culinary excellence aboard the ship, where dining is a highlight of the voyage.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, **three** cruise to North Africa, including **Seabourn Ovation** and **Seabourn Sojourn**. They often depart from **Barcelona** or **Lisbon**. Seabourn focuses on an intimate luxury experience, delivering personalised service and tailored excursions rich in local culture.
• Explora Journeys: This line operates **two ships**, both with itineraries to North Africa—namely **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. They typically depart from **Barcelona** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**, and they focus on sustainable luxury cruising, ensuring the beauty of North Africa is preserved.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With **six ships** total, **five** offer itineraries to North Africa. The **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Navigator** frequently sail from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**. Regent is known for providing an all-inclusive luxury experience that delivers personalised service, exceptional dining, and easy access to enchanting destinations.
• Silversea: Comprising **13 ships**, **six** sail to North Africa, including **Silver Ray** and **Silver Dawn**. Departing mainly from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**, Silversea focuses on intimate luxury experiences with onboard accommodations designed for comfort and service tailored to every guest’s needs.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re intrigued by North Africa but want to consider other exciting options, here are five alternatives:

• Southern Europe: Explore beautiful coastlines, rich history, and vibrant cities, with endless culinary delights waiting to be enjoyed!
• Western Mediterranean: A captivating mix of charm and culture, this region is perfect for those seeking sun-soaked beaches and local flavours.
• Spain: Known for its rich tradition, excellent wine, and delectable food, Spain is a perfect spot for enthusiasts of culture and cuisine.
• Caribbean: For a taste of paradise, the Caribbean offers sun-kissed shores and tropical adventures, making it ideal for relaxation and fun.
• Southern Italy: With stunning coastlines and rich history, the allure of Southern Italy presents gastronomical delights and breathtaking views that are hard to resist.

With such incredible options and unique destinations waiting to be discovered, North Africa promises to be the perfect adventure. It’s time to book your cruise with **CruiseAway** and explore the mystique of North Africa!