Namibia Cruises

Namibia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This Southern African nation boasts diverse scenery, from the towering dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert to the rugged coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean. Visiting Namibia on a cruise offers a unique approach to experiencing this vast desert landscape, giving you access to both remote wildlife reserves and bustling coastal towns. Did you know that Namibia is home to the world’s largest desert and the second largest canyon, Fish River Canyon? With its breathtaking views and variety of outdoor activities, a cruise to Namibia promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Expeditions to Namibia

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features Queen Anne which includes itineraries that stop in Namibia. Known for its luxurious experience and elegant atmosphere, this ship boasts stunning dining options and high-class entertainment. For those cruising to Namibia, departures are most frequently from international ports such as Cape Town and Hong Kong, making it easy for cruisers to visit this beautiful destination.
• Princess Cruises: This popular cruise line has a fleet of 17 ships, 2 of which visit Namibia, including the Crown Princess and Island Princess. These ships shine with exceptional on-board amenities and welcoming environments, perfect for families and couples alike. Most cruises to Namibia embark from Sydney or Perth, making it accessible for local cruisers eager to explore the captivating landscape.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 vessels, Norwegian offers 2 ships like the Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky that cruise to Namibia. Known for their freestyle cruising concept, these ships provide greater flexibility with dining and entertainment. Departures for Namibia are mainly from Cape Town and Barcelona, ensuring a convenient start for your journey.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line has a total fleet size of 11, with 1 ship, the Zuiderdam, that includes Namibia in its itinerary. Known for its emphasis on cultural experiences, Holland America is recognised for its immersive shore excursions. Departures often happen from Cape Town and Singapore, making it easy to access this stunning African destination.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC has 1 ship, the MSC Musica, that sails to Namibia. The ship is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, stunning design, and excellent dining options. Cruises to Namibia typically depart from Cape Town, thus ensuring cruisers can easily embark on this remarkable adventure.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Namibia

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships total, Oceania has 4 vessels that visit Namibia, including Nautica and Insignia. Renowned for their destination-focused itineraries and superb dining experiences, these ships offer a luxurious cruising experience. Departures commonly take place from Miami or Rio de Janeiro, giving you variety as you embark on your journey to Namibia.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea has 2 vessels, Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit, that include Namibia in their itineraries. Known for their all-suite accommodations and personalized service, these ships combine comfort with luxury. Depart preparations largely originate from Cape Town or Tokyo, making it feel like a whirlwind luxurious experience from start to finish.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara features 1, the Azamara Quest, that visits Namibia. Celebrated for its immersive itineraries and longer port stays, it allows cruisers to fully enjoy Namibia’s offerings. Departures are primarily from Cape Town or Gran Canaria, ensuring a seamless journey.
• Seabourn: This ultra-luxury cruise line has a fleet of 6, featuring Seabourn Sojourn which includes calls in Namibia. Known for its high staff-to-guest ratio and exceptional service, it offers an unparalleled cruising experience. Most cruises embark from Cape Town or Mahé, ensuring a chic and relaxed start to your adventure!

Top Harbours to Visit in Namibia

• Walvis Bay: A central hub for cruising in Namibia, Walvis Bay offers a gateway to stunning natural landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Walvis Bay Lagoon, famous for its flamingos and diverse birdlife. You can also enjoy activities like kayaking with seals or exploring the nearby Namib Desert’s stunning dune landscapes.
• Cape Town, South Africa: While not directly in Namibia, this beautiful port frequently serves as the departure point for cruises and is a must-visit destination in itself. Explore iconic Table Mountain, enjoy the V&A Waterfront, or take a trip to Robben Island to learn about its history. It’s the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and breathtaking views!
• Dakar, Senegal: This vibrant city is often included in itineraries that lead to Namibia. Discover its rich history at the African Renaissance Monument, explore the local markets, and enjoy delicious Senegalese dishes at traditional restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site!
• Durban, South Africa: As another key port, Durban is known for its coastline and cultural diversity. Relax on the golden beaches, visit the uShaka Marine World, or discover the rich heritage in the city’s Indian Markets for a delightful taste of local flavours.
• Port Louis, Mauritius: While further afield, Port Louis is a potential stop for cruises to Namibia. Explore the vibrant local markets, the stunning Caudan Waterfront, and sample local cuisine at a street food stall. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Le Caudan Waterfront for shopping and entertainment.

Best Times to Cruise to Namibia

Namibia’s climate can be quite varied; however, it generally offers a delightful atmosphere for cruising year-round. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C, making it a lovely time for outdoor exploration and wildlife sightings. Spring, from April to June, is ideal for enjoying pleasant temperatures ranging from 14°C to 26°C, allowing for comfortable adventures in the national parks. July to September is considered winter in Namibia, with cooler evenings, but daytime temperatures can still reach around 20°C to 25°C, perfect for those who enjoy warmer days later in the year. As the year progresses, October to December sees increasing temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C, making wildlife sightings more rewarding as animals venture to water sources.

Cost of a Cruise to Namibia

A typical one-week cruise to Namibia usually costs between $1,500 to $3,000 AUD, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation selected. If you’re considering a luxury experience, expect to pay around $4,000 to $7,000 AUD for similar itineraries, which generally include upscale amenities and exceptional service.

Dining costs in Namibia can be quite reasonable, with meals ranging from $15 to $30 AUD at local restaurants. Drinks typically range from $5 to $12 AUD for a beer or a glass of wine, so you can enjoy the local food and drink without stretching your budget too thin!

Alternative Regions to Explore on Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise to Namibia but are open to exploring other regions, here are some wonderful alternatives:

• South Africa – Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, a cruise here allows you to experience the famous Kruger National Park and vibrant cities like Cape Town and Durban.
• Canary Islands – This beautiful archipelago offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes, lovely beaches, and a unique blend of cultures that will captivate every traveler.
• Africa – Explore more of Africa beyond Namibia, where you’ll find rich histories, stunning safaris, and incredible landscapes all waiting to be uncovered.
• Madeira – Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic”, this stunning island has lush gardens, unique terrain, and local wine experiences that promise blissful afternoons.
• Bahamas – For a more laid-back vibe, the Bahamas has beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, offering the perfect alternative for a sun-soaked escape!

Embrace the beauty of Namibia as you embark on a delightful cruise adventure! With Cruise1st, booking your unforgettable journey to this captivating destination has never been easier. Experience the sweeping landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and rich traditions of Namibia and its surrounding regions!