South Africa Cruises

Explore the Wonders of South Africa with CruiseAway

Embark on an unforgettable journey to **South Africa**, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. A cruise to this incredible region not only allows you to explore bustling cities like Cape Town and Durban but also combines the thrill of adventure with the relaxation of on-board amenities. Picture yourself watching elephants roam in Kruger National Park, indulging in world-class wines in the Cape Winelands, or gazing into the depths of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons on Earth. Fun fact: South Africa has 11 official languages and is known for its cultural diversity! A cruise allows you to conveniently experience the best of what South Africa has to offer—its breathtaking sceneries and adventurous activities—while enjoying the comforts of a luxurious floating hotel.

Must-Visit Harbours in South Africa

South Africa boasts several prominent harbours that are integral to its charm. Here are five of the top ports you should consider visiting:

• Cape Town: Known for its stunning backdrop of **Table Mountain** and vibrant culture, Cape Town is a must-visit. When your cruise docks, make sure to explore the historic **Robben Island**, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Additionally, take a cable car ride up to **Table Mountain** for breathtaking panoramic views. Insider tip: Spend some time in the **V&A Waterfront**, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy local entertainment, all within close proximity!
• Durban: This coastal city is famous for its golden beaches and warm Indian Ocean waters. While in Durban, visit the **uShaka Marine World** for a fun day of water activities or explore the vibrant **Victoria Street Market** for a taste of local delicacies. Pro tip: Don’t miss trying **bunny chow**, a traditional Durban dish where curry is served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread!
• Walvis Bay: Located in Namibia but often on South African cruise itineraries, Walvis Bay is known for its stunning coastal scenery and diverse marine life. A popular activity here is a dolphin cruise in the bay, where you can encounter playful seals and dolphins. Insider tip: Keep an eye out for the rich birdlife in **Walvis Bay Lagoon**, a UNESCO World Heritage site!
• Port Elizabeth: This vibrant city offers beautiful beaches and the nearby **Addo Elephant National Park**, which is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in the world. Consider booking a safari excursion to make the most of your visit! Make sure to try **biltong** (dried cured meat) from local shops as a tasty snack.
• Mossel Bay: Nestled between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay is known for its stunning beaches, scenic drives, and marine activities. Enjoy activities like whale-watching, diving with sharks, and exploring the **Cape Saint Blaize Lighthouse**. Pro tip: Visit the **Dias Museum Complex** to learn more about the Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias, who first landed here!

The Best Times to Cruise to South Africa

The weather is a significant factor when planning your cruise to **South Africa**. The ideal time to visit typically ranges from **October to April**, with summer temperatures soaring between **25°C and 35°C**. This period is perfect for beach outings and outdoor adventures. Conversely, if you’re looking to take advantage of the scenic landscapes without the heat, plan your cruise for **May to September**, where temperatures cool down to around **15°C to 25°C**, making for pleasant exploration—especially for wildlife viewing in national parks.

Costs of Cruising in South Africa

When booking a cruise, it’s crucial to factor in the costs involved. A one-week cruise to **South Africa** usually ranges from **$2,000 to $4,000**, while a two-week itinerary may go up to **$5,000 to $8,000**. For luxury cruise options, expect costs starting at around **$5,500** for a one-week trip. The most economical times to cruise are generally during the shoulder seasons of **May to September**, while prices peak during the warmer months. Additionally, keep in mind that dining at local establishments may cost between **$15 to $30** per meal, offering excellent value for trying South African cuisine!

Major Cruise Lines Offering South Africa Experiences

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **two** of these sail to **South Africa**. The **Crown Princess** and **Island Princess** are popular vessels, commonly cruising from **Sydney** or **Cape Town**. Recognised for its exceptional service and onboard entertainment, Princess Cruises delights cruisers with diverse itineraries that include immersive shore excursions.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring **20 ships**, **two** sail to South Africa. Notable vessels like **Norwegian Dawn** and **Norwegian Sky** mainly depart from **Cape Town** or **Port Louis**. The line offers a unique “freestyle cruising” experience that lets guests dine whenever and wherever they choose, making for a laid-back cruise experience that lets you explore at your own pace.
• Cunard: This luxury cruise line operates **four ships**, with **one** dedicated to South African itineraries. The **Queen Anne** is the leading member, departing from ports like **Sydney** or **Singapore**. Cunard is synonymous with elegant cruising, featuring superior dining options and refined services that cater to an upscale clientele.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of **23**, there’s **one** ship offering options to South Africa: the **MSC Musica**. Departing from **Durban** or **Cape Town**, MSC is perfect for family vacations with plenty of activities for all ages onboard, plus delicious dining inspired by Mediterranean flavours!
• Holland America Line: This line operates **eleven ships**, with **one** ship making its way to South Africa: the **Zuiderdam**. Commonly departing from **Sydney** or **Cape Town**, Holland America is recognised for its commitment to sustainability and exceptional dining experiences, aiming to create a memorable journey for guests onboard.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of **six ships**, **four** offer itineraries to **South Africa**. The **Seven Seas Voyager** and **Seven Seas Navigator** frequently depart from **Cape Town** or **Barcelona**. Regent is famous for its all-inclusive luxury experience that caters to every need of its guests, from gourmet dining to shore excursions.
• Oceania Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **eight**, **three** travel to **South Africa** and include the **Nautica** and **Insignia**. Departing usually from **Cape Town** or **Singapore**, Oceania is known for its top-tier culinary experiences and curated cultural excursions ensuring guests immerse themselves in local life.
• Silversea: This ultra-luxury cruise line boasts **thirteen ships**, with **four** that visit **South Africa**. **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Muse** typically depart from **Cape Town** or **Mahe**. Silversea is synonymous with exceptional service and intimate guest settings, specialising in enriching journeys that foster cultural immersion.
• Seabourn: With **six ships**, only **one** offers itineraries to **South Africa**: the **Seabourn Sojourn**. Departing often from **Cape Town** or **Mahe**, Seabourn is well-known for its small ship luxury cruising experience, offering personalised service, gourmet dining, and unique insights into each destination.
• Azamara Cruises: Operating with a fleet of **four ships**, **one** visits **South Africa**—the **Azamara Quest**. Departing from **Cape Town** or **Gran Canaria**, Azamara positions itself as the “destination-focused” cruise line, ensuring you spend longer in port to enjoy the local culture and scenery.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re intrigued by the thought of cruising to **South Africa**, you might also find these regions equally captivating:

• Africa: Full of incredible wildlife experiences and rich traditions, Africa offers a mix of adventure and captivating cultures that could easily rival other destinations.
• Caribbean: A dreamy option for those looking for sunny beaches, azure waters, and vibrant island life, the Caribbean is a paradise for relaxation and exploration.
• Australia: Rich in unique wildlife and natural wonders, Australia provides a blend of stunning coastlines and diverse ecosystems that are perfect for adventurous cruisers.
• Southern Europe: Combining sun, beaches, and rich culinary traditions, this region has something for everyone and makes for an incredible alternate getaway.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Known for its beautiful islands and ancient history, the Eastern Mediterranean is a perfect option for cultural enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

A journey to **South Africa** offers the opportunity for unforgettable wildlife experiences, stunning landscapes, and incredible local culture. Why wait? Book your next adventure with **CruiseAway** and explore the diverse beauty that South Africa has to offer!