North Africa Cruises

North Africa is a captivating region steeped in rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes that sweep from vast deserts to bustling cities. This exotic destination offers an incredible mix of ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal getaway for cruise enthusiasts. Did you know that North Africa is home to the world’s largest desert, the Sahara, covering an impressive 9 million square kilometres? When you embark on a cruise to North Africa, you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore incredible ports and experience a blend of Mediterranean and Arabian influences—all while enjoying the luxury and convenience of a cruise ship!

Popular Cruise Lines Offering Trips to North Africa

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC boasts 13 vessels that visit North Africa. The MSC Grandiosa and MSC Euribia are particularly noteworthy, offering a wide range of onboard experiences like spas, dining options, and live entertainment. Cruises to North Africa most frequently depart from international ports like Barcelona and Marseille, ensuring a smooth start for your adventure.
• Holland America Line: This premier cruise line features 11 ships, with 4 sailing to North Africa. The Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam stand out for their stunning dining experiences and enriching itineraries. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Athens or Barcelona, making it convenient for cruisers to kick off their journey in style.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 7 that venture to North Africa, including the Crown Princess and Island Princess, both famous for their excellent entertainment options and culinary diversity. Most sailings can be found departing from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Buenos Aires, giving cruisers a plethora of choices.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 6 visiting North Africa. Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Viva are popular choices due to their freestyle dining and onboard activities. Departures typically occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, ensuring a convenient sailing experience toward your exciting destination.
• P&O Cruises: P&O has a fleet of 7 ships, with 3 making trips to North Africa. The Azura and Arcadia are known for their classic cruise charm and relaxed atmosphere. Cruises departing from this line primarily take off from Valletta or Southampton, enabling cruisers to easily access North Africa’s intriguing ports.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to North Africa

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania Cruises has 6 ships that visit North Africa. Nautica and Marina are particularly celebrated for their gourmet dining and luxurious amenities. Most itineraries sail from Athens or Barcelona, ensuring an elegant kickoff to your North African exploration.
• Seabourn: A luxury cruise experience can be found with Seabourn’s fleet of 6. With 2 of their vessels dedicated to North Africa, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn focus on providing impeccable service and sumptuous comfort. Departures are often from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), adding a touch of sophistication to your journey.
• Silversea: This cruise line features 12 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to North Africa, including Silver Dawn and Silver Moon, both known for their all-suite accommodations and high-individualised service. Expect most departures from Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), setting the stage for a luxurious holiday.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has 3 that venture to North Africa. Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are noted for their immersive itineraries and longer stays in port. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, ensuring easy accessibility to your cruising adventure.

Must-Visit Harbours in North Africa

• Casablanca, Morocco: This iconic city is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Be sure to visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, for its breathtaking views and intricate designs. Also, check out the bustling markets where you can shop for traditional Moroccan crafts and delicious local cuisines.
• Alexandria, Egypt: Step into a city that once harboured the Great Library and the Lighthouse of Pharos. Explore the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina or stroll along the Corniche to admire the Mediterranean sea views. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa are also a must-see if you’re interested in ancient history!
• Tunis (La Goulette), Tunisia: The gateway to the ancient city of Carthage, you’ll want to explore the rich archaeological sites here. The Bardo National Museum is also an excellent stop for its vast collection of Roman mosaics. Don’t forget to stroll through the narrow streets of the Medina, filled with shops and eateries.
• Valletta, Malta: This beautiful fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts stunning Baroque architecture. Take time to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral and admire the exquisite artwork that adorns its interior. You can also enjoy picturesque views of the Grand Harbour or take a stroll around the vibrant streets and enjoy local Maltese cuisine.
• Tangiers, Morocco: Known for its rich history and diverse culture, enjoy exploring the Medina with its vibrant bazaars. Visit the Kasbah Museum for a glimpse into local history or relax at a café in the scenic Place de France. If time allows, take a short trip to the nearby Caves of Hercules!

When to Cruise North Africa

Cruising to North Africa can be a fantastic experience throughout the year. However, the best time to travel to this region is during January to March, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. The weather is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring the ancient sites and vibrant cities without the summer heat. As you move through April to June, temperatures can rise to 20°C to 30°C, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. As summer approaches, July to September may become quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, while the fall months of October to December bring comfortable conditions again, averaging between 18°C and 28°C—ideal for sightseeing adventures!

The Cost of a Cruise to North Africa

Your exciting getaway to North Africa will fall within a price range of approximately $1,500 to $2,800 AUD for a one-week cruise, while two-week excursions can fluctuate between $3,500 to $5,500 AUD, depending on the cruise line and accommodation options. Luxury cruises typically range from $4,000 to $8,000 AUD for similar itineraries, offering upscale amenities and personalised experiences onboard.

When it comes to local dining, expect to pay around $15 to $30 AUD for meals at local restaurants, while traditional Moroccan or Tunisian dishes can delight your palate for a similar price range. If you’re after a drink, budget about $5 to $10 AUD for local beverages, making it easy to enjoy the diverse regional cuisines without financial worry!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re looking for more captivating destinations, consider these alternatives to a North Africa cruise:

• Canary Islands – This stunning archipelago off the north-west coast of Africa offers unique volcanic landscapes and picturesque beaches. The Canaries have a warm climate year-round, making it perfect for sun-seekers and adventurers alike!
• Baltic Sea – Known for its charming cities and rich history, this region provides a delightful mix of Scandinavian culture and breathtaking lakes and forests—a perfect retreat while cruising along the coastline.
• Italy (including Sicily) – Explore historical landmarks, enjoy mouth-watering cuisine, and sample exquisite wines. Sailing through this picture-perfect region allows you to soak in a medley of Italian culture while experiencing stunning coastal vistas.
• Western Mediterranean – This vibrant region is rich in history and culture, promising beautiful coastlines, charming villages, and a delightful culinary experience for travelers looking for a taste of Mediterranean living.
• Southern Africa – Experience a wild adventure with beautiful landscapes, incredible wildlife, and fantastic cultural interactions. A cruise through this region will surely be unforgettable!

Don’t miss the chance to set sail on an unforgettable journey to North Africa with Cruise1st. With enticing itineraries and luxurious experiences just waiting for you, booking your cruise holiday has never been easier. Dive into the wonders of this exotic region today!