Table Of Content

Many of the big-name reserves that lie inland, such as South Africa's Kruger National Park, will be off-limits. One of the main reasons people choose to go on an African cruise is to see the incredible wildlife. From elephants to lions, giraffes to zebras, the animals you’ll see on your cruise will leave you in awe. Some of the best places to see wildlife on your African cruise are the national parks and reserves in Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa. Bring your camera and binoculars to capture every moment of your safari excursions.
Land Programs & Hotels
Following a cruise itinerary along a coastal route, you'll get to explore lesser-visited game reserves that are not necessarily any less rewarding than the more-frequented ones found farther inland. Safari cruises are generally offered from December through February, with a few scheduled for as early as November and others running as late as March or even April. In South Africa, June through August (the dry season) is considered peak safari time, but conditions are generally pretty good in the country all year round. The cruise lines know that travelers are coming to Africa with safari-going top of mind, and are more than happy to cater to cruisers interested in combining their safari-themed voyage with a land-based, overnight safari component. These overland extensions usually unfold in South Africa or Kenya, and can be tacked on before, after or even during the course of the sailing.
Nature and wildlife

Sail through the world’s rivers in the poshest ships on the river, Uniworld’s boutique ships are designed to inspire, excite and revive your spirit. Offering a completely all-inclusive cruise, Regent Seven Seas is known for exquisite service on beautifully designed intimate ships, classic cruising at its best. Explore the world’s most beautiful rivers, creating a lifetime of memories from AmaWaterways’ intimate, luxurious river ship. Embark on a near circumnavigation of the African continent, birthplace of civilization and home to the iconic wild.
Cruises
You will journey across the Mediterranean Sea and into the Atlantic Ocean from there. Some cruise lines also offer departures from ports in the Middle East, such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Some popular pre- or post-cruise destinations include Cape Town, South Africa; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; and Marrakech, Morocco. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean make Mombasa a delightful cruise destination, but you’ll also find a city representing Kenya’s fascinating and diverse history. Explore the Canary Islands with a cruise to their most populous city, Las Palmas, on Gran Canaria Island. These Spanish islands have one of the best climates in the world, perfect for your next cruise vacation.
Africa Cruises Highlights
Are you looking for a way to leave behind the stress of your daily life? Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock-in roundtrip flights for two. Secure these savings online by choosing your nearest airport in step one of your cruise booking, and enjoy air-to-sea made easy. We'll coordinate your roundtrip flights, and transportation between the airport and cruise port.
Africa: Cruise Lines
One of the most popular types of African cruises is the safari cruise. These cruises take you on a wildlife adventure through some of Africa’s most famous national parks and reserves. On a safari cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many other animals in their natural habitats. Without a doubt, the most popular type of shore excursion on an African cruise is the game drive.
A Norwegian cruise to Africa opens up a world of extraordinary experiences. Here are a few highlights from the ports you could visit to kick your cruise planning into high gear. With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation.
Culture, beauty and wildlife beyond imagination.
Seeing Africa by cruise ship takes away much of the uncertainty and unknowns that can make some travelers hesitant to travel too far out of their comfort zones. It’s also a heck of a lot easier to plan a cruise than it is to put together an entire safari trip. Setting out with a good guide, especially a park ranger, will considerably up your chances of spotting wildlife.
South Carolina couple stranded in Africa, cruise ship left without them - WRAL News
South Carolina couple stranded in Africa, cruise ship left without them.
Posted: Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Cruise Ships
Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals. Rio de Janeiro, one of the most visited cities in the southern hemisphere, has numerous activities for every desire. Cruise to Rio for the Carnival celebrations, natural environment, beautiful beaches and famous landmarks. Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.
Sail from Accra, Ghana on the western coast or experience the island life in Madagascar and Mauritius as you leave on a cruise from Port Louis, off the coast of Africa. Of course many longer cruises that wind up in Africa begin in ports like Southampton in Europe or Singapore in Asia. It may be surprising to know that not that many of the major US cruise lines offer dedicated Africa cruises. If you’re keen on a “small ship” cruise or an adventure cruise with a company like Mantis Journeys or Swan Hellenic, you’ll find many more options. But they can be quite pricey, and won’t earn you any points if you’re a member of a major cruise reward program. Other ports of call for African cruises include Dakar, Senegal; Durban, South Africa; and Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Azamara boasts more overnights in ports, longer stays and night time tours. But for people used to more traditional cruises, it’ll likely be a bit more active and adventurous than you’re used to. Here’s what to know about cruises to Africa with the major US cruise lines. Cruising during the Southern Hemisphere's summer means that visitors can take advantage of warm weather, which is perfect for those looking to hit the beaches.
With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can journey to many diverse ports, each offering an exciting taste of Africa's splendor. If so, prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 2024 Africa cruise itineraries. But most cruises to Africa will have a few more soft adventure-type excursions at each port than you’d find with more beach-focused cruises.
Norwegian's 2024 Africa cruises will sail from either Cape Town, South Africa, or Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Depending on your chosen itinerary, your voyage may circle back to Cape Town or disembark in Dubai or Port Louis, Mauritius. If you opt for a Mediterranean and Middle East cruise with a stop in Egypt, your cruise typically commences in Dubai. Southeast Asia’s most modern city, Singapore, also contains a lot of history and treasures from the past, along with a perfect tropical climate – all making Singapore a wonderful destination year round. Cruise to Port Louis in Mauritius for its natural beauty and stay to explore its fascinating past as a Dutch, French and British colony.