Southern Africa Cruises

Southern Africa is a captivating destination that offers a rich blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures. From the breathtaking scenic beauty of Table Mountain, to the bustling markets of Cape Town and the incredible wildlife in Kruger National Park, there’s something for everyone. Did you know that Southern Africa is home to some of the best wine regions in the world, notably the Cape Winelands? A cruise to Southern Africa is an unforgettable adventure, combining the luxury of cruise travel with the thrill of exploring this magnificent region.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Excursions to Southern Africa

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 luxury ships, Cunard offers one spectacular itinerary to Southern Africa on the Queen Anne. Known for its exquisite onboard experience with formal dining and elegant balls, this cruise line combines classic sophistication with cruise convenience. Departures typically occur from domestic ports like Sydney or Perth as well as international ports such as Cape Town and Singapore, making it easier for Australians to join this elegant journey.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises sends 2 vessels to Southern Africa—the Island Princess and Crown Princess. Both ships are celebrated for their engaging entertainment and variety of dining options. They frequently depart from Australian ports such as Sydney and Perth or international ports like Cape Town or Los Angeles, providing diverse options for cruisers looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Southern Africa.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian cruises to Southern Africa on 2 vessels: Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky. Offering a relaxed, freestyle cruising experience, these ships allow passengers to enjoy a variety of gourmet dining choices. Departures usually take place from international ports like Cape Town or Port Louis, giving cruisers convenient options as they embark on their Southern African adventure.
• MSC Cruises: The MSC fleet includes 23 ships, with 1 specifically visiting Southern Africa—the MSC Musica. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent entertainment options, this ship is great for both kids and adults. Departures predominantly occur from Durban or Cape Town, making it easy for travellers to board their cruise as they head for stunning southern vistas.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 11, Holland America has 1 ship that offers an itinerary to Southern Africa—the Zuiderdam. Known for its refined onboard experience and exceptional service, this ship provides a more intimate cruising experience. Departures take place from Sydney or international ports such as Cape Town or Singapore, providing a variety of embarkation choices for eager cruisers.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Southern Africa

• Oceania Cruises: With 8 ships in its fleet, Oceania has 4 that cruise to Southern Africa, with Nautica and Insignia being the stars. Known for their gourmet cuisine and luxurious onboard atmosphere, these ships provide an elegant retreat at sea. Most cruises depart from Cape Town or Singapore, ensuring a luxurious start to your Southern African adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: This upscale cruise line boasts a fleet of 4, with Azamara Quest offering itineraries to Southern Africa. Known for its destination immersion and longer port stays, Azamara lets you fully explore local cultures. Departures typically occur from Cape Town or Gran Canaria, allowing for a leisurely experience.
• Silversea: Silversea’s fleet includes 12 ships, with 3 that venture to Southern Africa: Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit being prime examples. This luxury line is known for its extremely high staff-to-guest ratio and opulent accommodations. Cruises usually depart from Cape Town or Singapore, providing an indulgent beginning to your journey.
• Seabourn: The Seabourn fleet consists of 6 ships, with 1 offering itineraries to Southern Africa—Seabourn Sojourn. Known for its intimate and luxurious cruising experience, it provides sophisticated amenities and personalised service. Departures typically occur from Cape Town or Mahe, ensuring a tailored experience for every traveller.

Top Harbours to Experience in Southern Africa

• Cape Town, South Africa: This iconic city is famous for its stunning scenery and diverse culture. When your cruise docks here, be sure to visit the spectacular Table Mountain via the cable car for breathtaking views. Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront for dining and shopping, or take a day trip to the Cape of Good Hope to encounter stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Durban, South Africa: Ruggedly beautiful, Durban boasts a beautiful coastline and rich cultural heritage. While docked, indulge in the local cuisine at the famous Victoria Street Market, or spend a day at the uShaka Marine World, where you can explore the aquarium and take part in water rides and experiences.
• Walvis Bay, Namibia: Known for its stunning lagoons and diverse birdlife, Walvis Bay is a must-see. Plan a scenic drive to the nearby Namib Desert to view the iconic Dune 45 or take a boat tour to meet the playful seals and view the stunning pelicans along the way.
• Port Louis, Mauritius: A paradise in itself, Port Louis offers stunning beaches and a vibrant market atmosphere. Explore the bustling Central Market for local crafts and food, or visit the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden to admire a variety of flora native to the region.
• Richards Bay, South Africa: Known for its natural surroundings, Richards Bay provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. An excursion to the nearby Zululand will introduce you to its wildlife—which includes incredible opportunities for game viewing. It’s also a gateway to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, where you can experience a traditional safari.

When to Cruise Southern Africa

Southern Africa offers mild climates year-round, making it a fantastic cruise destination. However, the best time to visit is from January to March, with average temperatures between 20°C and 28°C, allowing for outdoor exploration without extreme heat. April to June provides pleasant conditions averaging 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for wildlife viewing as animals become more active. During July to September, temperatures may cool slightly, averaging 10°C to 20°C, but this is also prime time for spotting the Big Five. Finally, visiting from October to December ushers warmer temperatures, averaging between 20°C to 30°C, leading into the summer months when the region comes alive with festivals and events.

Cost of a Cruise to Southern Africa

When planning your getaway, a typical one-week cruise to Southern Africa costs approximately $1,400 to $3,000 AUD per person, depending on the cruise line and cabin choice. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, prices can range from $4,000 to $8,000 AUD for a similar duration, offering upscale amenities and tailored service.

Food lovers will find that meals at local restaurants usually cost between $15 to $35 AUD, giving you a chance to sample traditional cuisine. Drinks usually range from $5 to $12 AUD for local beers or cocktails, ensuring you can enjoy a taste of Southern Africa within a reasonable budget!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re eyeing a Southern Africa cruise, check out these alternative destinations:

• East Coast USA – Explore the lively shores of Miami, the historic sites of Charleston, and bask in the culture of New York City, offering a vibrant vacation filled with adventures.
• Bahamas – With stunning sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas is perfect for sun seekers and those wanting to indulge in breathtaking resorts, local cuisine, and history.
• Canary Islands – A stunning archipelago with diverse landscapes and comfortable weather, offering beautiful beaches and unique cultural influences right on your doorstep.
• Indian Ocean – Famous for its paradisiacal islands and thriving marine life, the Indian Ocean offers serene escape spots with captivating adventures waiting just beyond your ship’s deck.
• Madeira – Known for its lush landscapes and warm climate, Madeira features picturesque hiking trails, unique experiences, and a fusion of Portuguese culture combined with a tranquil island vibe.

With Cruise1st, your adventure to Southern Africa awaits! From breathtaking landscapes to luxurious onboard experiences, this captivating region is perfect for your next cruise holiday!