South Africa Cruises

Explore the Wonders of South Africa with Cruise1st

South Africa is a captivating destination, renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and incredible wildlife. If you’re looking for an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and a taste of history, a cruise to South Africa is your ticket to an unforgettable experience! Fun fact: South Africa is home to three capital cities and boasts one of the world's largest biodiversity hotspots. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the majestic Table Mountain, cruising through South African waters allows you to immerse yourself in the region's beauty while enjoying the comforts of a world-class ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering South Africa Itineraries

• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4, Cunard has 2 ships sailing to South Africa: Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2. Known for their elegance and traditional British style, these ships offer luxurious dining experiences and exceptional service. Most itineraries departing for South Africa commonly leave from international ports such as Singapore or Cape Town, making it accessible for cruisers looking to discover the southern tip of Africa.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line features a fleet of 17, with 2 vessels visiting South Africa—Crown Princess and Island Princess. Both ships are celebrated for their premium onboard amenities and diverse dining options that cater to different tastes. Domestic departures are generally available from Sydney or Perth, while international options will lead you from Cape Town or Auckland to explore South Africa's stunning coastlines.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC has 2 ships sailing to South Africa: MSC Magnifica and MSC Musica. These vessels stand out for their family-friendly environments, featuring entertainment options for all ages. Cruises departing for the region typically leave from Melbourne domestically or from Durban and Valparaíso (Santiago) internationally, ensuring plenty of starting points for your journey.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This line has a fleet of 20, with 2 ships—Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky—offering itineraries to South Africa. Known for their lively atmosphere and varied dining choices, these ships ensure a fantastic onboard experience. Departures usually occur from Cape Town or Port Louis, giving cruisers access to a vibrant city before or after their adventures.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in its fleet, Holland America features 1 ship—Zuiderdam—with routes to South Africa. This line is renowned for its quality dining experiences and enriching cultural programs. Common departures come from Sydney domestically and from international ports such as Singapore or Cape Town.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to South Africa

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania boasts a fleet of 8, with 4 ships—Nautica and Insignia—offering itineraries that include South Africa. Each vessel is renowned for its culinary excellence, featuring top-tier dining options that embrace local flavours. Most sailings depart from Cape Town or Singapore, allowing for a luxurious start to your unforgettable journey.
• Silversea: Silversea operates with 12 ships, with 3 sailing to South Africa—Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit being the most popular. Known for their intimate atmosphere and all-inclusive luxury, these ships focus on personalized service. Departures from Cape Town or Mahe provide excellent access for exploring the stunning South African coastline.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara features 3 ships that visit South Africa, including Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey. This cruise line focuses on longer stays in port, allowing guests to intimately explore each destination. Sailings typically depart from Cape Town or Port Louis, perfect for immersing yourself in local culture.
• Seabourn: Seabourn has a fleet of 6, with 1 ship, Seabourn Sojourn, offering itineraries to South Africa. Renowned for its luxurious and intimate cruising experience, this ship is perfect for travelers looking for high-end service and exceptional onboard dining. Departures occur from either Cape Town or Mahe, providing a gentle beginning to luxurious explorations.

Top Harbours to Explore in South Africa

• Cape Town: Known for its stunning natural beauty and iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town offers numerous attractions. Cruise passengers can take a scenic cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views, visit the historic Robben Island, or stroll through the V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining. Don’t forget to try local delicacies at one of the many restaurants or sample some fine South African wine at nearby vineyards!
• Durban: This vibrant city is famous for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Visitors can relax on the Golden Mile, explore the lush Botanical Gardens, or immerse themselves in the vibrant culture at the Victoria Street Market. If time allows, visit the nearby uShaka Marine World for family-friendly fun with marine life exhibits and thrilling water rides!
• Port Elizabeth: Known as the “Friendly City,” Port Elizabeth boasts stunning beaches and a safe environment for swimming and water sports. Visitors can take a walk along the Boardwalk, visit the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, or explore the nearby Addo Elephant National Park, home to the Big Five, for an exciting safari experience.
• Richards Bay: This bustling port town is known for its beautiful beaches and is a gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cruise visitors can enjoy wildlife watching, boat tours, or simply soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches. The nearby Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is an ideal spot for those wanting to witness Africa's wildlife up close.
• Mossel Bay: With its beautiful coastline and warm climate, Mossel Bay offers delightful wildlife experiences. Visitors can engage in whale watching, visit the Dias Museum Complex for a touch of history, or enjoy stunning hikes along the Garden Route. The local beaches are perfect for sunbathing and relaxation too!

Optional Harbours Visited Before or After South Africa

• Athens, Greece: A city steeped in history, Athens offers iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and vibrant markets like Monastiraki. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine in a traditional taverna or take a day trip to nearby historical sites like Delphi.
• Singapore: This futuristic city-state features a blend of cultures and sights, from the stunning Gardens by the Bay to the historic Chinatown district. Explore the bustling Hawker Centres for incredible street food or indulge in some shopping on Orchard Road.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: This port provides access to Rome, one of the most iconic cities in the world. Must-see attractions include the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Trevi Fountain, where you can toss a coin and make a wish!
• Istanbul, Turkey: Known for its rich history, visitors can explore the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Consider a traditional Turkish bath experience or a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus for unforgettable views!
• Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled in a beautiful bay, Kotor charms visitors with its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking views. Explore the cobblestone streets, hike up to the fortress for impressive panoramas or enjoy a coffee at a quaint café along the waterfront.

Best Times to Cruise to South Africa

Planning your trip for South Africa can be optimized depending on the season. From January to March, temperatures range from 18-30°C, offering warm summer weather ideal for beach activities and outdoor explorations. From April to June, you can expect mild weather ranging from 10-25°C, perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds. July to September brings cooler temperatures between 5-20°C, making it great for wildlife viewing as animals are more active during these months. Finally, from October to December, temperatures increase again to around 15-30°C, perfect for those wanting to experience vibrant spring colours and blooming landscapes.

Cost Overview for South Africa Cruises

A week-long cruise to South Africa typically costs around $1,800 to $2,800 AUD, while two-week excursions range from $3,500 to $5,500 AUD. Expect luxury cruises to start around $4,500 AUD for a week, climbing to about $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are often included on cruise ships, but if you venture to local eateries, plan on $15-$40 AUD per meal depending on the venue. A cold drink or cocktail will typically set you back around $10-15 AUD, giving you a taste of the local flavours!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're considering a cruise to South Africa, think about exploring these intriguing alternatives:

• Baltic Sea: This region combines stunning landscapes with rich history. It's known for its impressive architecture and unique cultures, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the typical cruise experience.
• Adriatic Sea: Explore beautiful coastal towns like Dubrovnik and Split, rich in history and Mediterranean charm. Expect stunning views, delightful local cuisine, and vibrant culture along the coast.
• Caribbean: If you're after stunning beaches and a laid-back vibe, the Caribbean region is a tropical paradise filled with colourful cultures and warm waters, perfect for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike!
• Australia and New Zealand: This duo offers incredible natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cities. Perfect for those looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration.
• South America: Explore rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes from the Andes to the Amazon. South America offers a diverse range of experiences for every kind of traveller!

Ready to experience the allure of South Africa? Let Cruise1st take you on an unforgettable journey that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation—all while onboard a magnificent ship!