North Africa Cruises

Explore the Wonders of North Africa with Cruise1st

North Africa is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a rich tapestry for any traveller. Stretching from the stunning shores of the Mediterranean to the sweeping sands of the Sahara, this region is home to vibrant cities, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes. Fun fact: North Africa hosts some of the world’s oldest civilizations, with landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Roman ruins of Carthage. A cruise is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in North Africa’s unique experiences, allowing you to seamlessly explore multiple destinations while enjoying the comfort of a luxurious ship.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting North Africa

• MSC Cruises: With a grand fleet of 23 ships, MSC offers 12 vessels that cruise to North Africa, including the MSC Euribia and MSC Magnifica. These ships provide an array of family-friendly amenities, superb dining options, and engaging onboard activities. Cruises to North Africa frequently depart from international ports such as Barcelona or Genoa, making it an accessible option for cruisers looking to explore the region.
• Holland America Line: This line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 offering cruises to North Africa. Notable vessels, Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam, are recognised for their enriching cultural experiences and exceptional service. Holland America typically departs from international ports like Athens or Barcelona, creating a perfect gateway to North Africa's incredible destinations.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 17 vessels, Princess has 7 ships that sail to North Africa, primarily the Crown Princess and Island Princess. These ships focus on fantastic dining and varied entertainment options. Departures most often happen from Civitavecchia (Rome), allowing cruisers to enjoy the ancient allure of Rome before heading to the enchanting coasts of North Africa.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 ships in total, Norwegian dedicates 6 to exploring North Africa, including Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Sky. Known for their lively atmosphere and numerous dining choices, these ships create a fun-filled experience. Cruises often set sail from lively ports like Lisbon or Barcelona, perfect for kickstarting your adventure.
• Virgin Voyages: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 4, with 3 ships providing itineraries to North Africa, particularly the Scarlet Lady and Resilient Lady. Renowned for their adult-only experience and modern approach to cruising, Virgin Voyages caters to those looking for a unique atmosphere. Most cruises depart from Barcelona or Miami, making it a great option for cruisers looking to explore North Africa in style.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to North Africa

• Seabourn: A fleet of 6 includes 3 ships offering voyages to North Africa. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn stand out for their ultra-luxury experiences, personalised service, and gourmet dining. These cruises typically depart from strategic ports like Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), ensuring that you can easily explore Mediterranean landmarks before delving into North Africa’s vibrant culture.
• Oceania Cruises: With 8 ships, Oceania offers 5 that cruise to North Africa, such as the Marina and Nautica. These ships are celebrated for their culinary excellence and destination-focused voyages, making them perfect for food lovers. Departures are commonly from Athens or Barcelona, allowing you to enjoy beautiful Mediterranean coastal views.
• Explora Journeys: With 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II sail to North Africa. Known for focusing on wellness and sustainable travel, this cruise line emphasizes relaxation and thoughtful experiences. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), creating a fantastic starting point for your journey.
• Azamara Cruises: Boasting a fleet of 4, all of their ships, including Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, visit North Africa. Azamara is known for its immersive cultural experiences, so you can expect plenty of opportunities to connect with locals during your visit. Cruises generally depart from Lisbon or Athens, making it easy to start your trip in vibrant port cities.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea has 5 ships that cruise to North Africa, with Silver Moon and Silver Dawn being the stars. Known for luxurious all-inclusive experiences, these ships elevate cruising to an art form. Departures typically happen from Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), enhancing your experience even before arriving in North Africa.

Must-Visit Harbours in North Africa

• Casablanca, Morocco: Famous for its stunning Hassan II Mosque and vibrant markets, Casablanca blends rich tradition with modernity. Cruise passengers can explore the medina, shop for unique souvenirs, or dive into Moroccan cuisine at local restaurants. The city’s bustling atmosphere provides a feast for the senses!
• Tangier, Morocco: With its strategic location, Tangier offers an enchanting blend of cultures. Visitors can wander the scenic streets of the Kasbah, explore the American Legation Museum, or take a quick trip to the picturesque beaches on the coast. Enjoying mint tea at a local café should definitely be on your to-do list!
• Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia: La Goulette serves as the gateway to the historic city of Tunis, home to the impressive Bardo Museum and the ancient ruins of Carthage. As a cruise passenger, take a stroll through Tunis's medina, where narrow winding streets are filled with vibrant markets and delicious street food to sample!
• Alexandria, Egypt: Known for its rich history, Alexandria boasts stunning landmarks such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the ancient fort of Fort Qaitbey. While docked, visitors can explore the city’s museums or unwind on the beautiful Mediterranean beaches – perfect for a refreshing dip!
• Agadir, Morocco: This coastal city is famous for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe. Spend your time soaking up the sun on Agadir Beach, exploring the local markets, or trying your hand at water sports. The nearby Agadir Kasbah offers spectacular views of the city and the coastline.

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After North Africa

• Athens, Greece: Athens is a fantastic starting point for any Mediterranean cruise. While docked, explore the historical sights, such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and enjoy a leisurely meal in the lively Plaka neighbourhood. Don't forget to take home a piece of this ancient city as a memento.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik captivates with its charming old town and impressive medieval walls. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the city walls or indulge in local seafood and wines at waterfront restaurants.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: As the gateway to the Eternal City, cruisers can easily explore iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum and the Vatican. Spend time wandering the picturesque streets, sampling local cuisine and gelato in Rome before heading to North Africa.
• Istanbul, Turkey: The vibrant mix of cultures in Istanbul is something to behold. Explore historic sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, stroll through the Grand Bazaar for unique items, or indulge in the diverse flavours of Turkish cuisine.
• Kotor, Montenegro: This scenic bay is renowned for its medieval churches and quaint old town. While visiting, consider hiking the fortress for stunning panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the bay for a different perspective.

Best Times to Book a Cruise to North Africa

When planning a trip to North Africa, the best time to visit varies by season. From March to May, temperatures are pleasant at around 15-25°C, perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds. June to September sees warmer weather, topping 25-35°C, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Autumn (October to November) is also a lovely time, with temperatures cooling down to around 15-25°C, showcasing beautiful fall colours in the landscape.

Cost Overview for North Africa Cruises

A typical week-long cruise to North Africa will generally range from $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, with two-week options often going between $3,000 and $4,500 AUD. For those looking for luxurious experiences, expect prices starting at about $5,000 AUD for a week and $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining aboard is frequently included, but if you're sampling local cuisine ashore, meals can run between $15 and $45 AUD per person, while drinks might be around $10-20 AUD in local establishments.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re thinking about a cruise to North Africa, consider these captivating regions:

• Adriatic Sea: Famous for its stunning coastlines and historic cities, the Adriatic is perfect for those looking to explore rich cultures in scenic surroundings, including gems like Dubrovnik and Split.
• East Africa: From wildlife safaris in Kenya to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, East Africa offers diverse experiences that cater to both adventure and relaxation seekers.
• Greek Islands: Renowned for breathtaking beaches and charming villages, exploring the Greek Islands is perfect for lovers of sun-soaked adventures and vibrant culture.
• Western Mediterranean: This region showcases stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and culinary delights, making it a great keepsake for those wanting to experience Europe’s multicultural heart.
• Canary Islands: With stunning volcanic landscapes and golden beaches, the Canary Islands provide sun-soaked shores and a perfect escape from it all—incredible weather year-round!

Ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey through North Africa? With Cruise1st, your dream adventure is just a booking away! Experience the vibrant cultures and rich histories that await in this fascinating region!