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Southern Africa Cruises

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      Southern Africa

      From the staggering Table Mountain dominating the Cape Town skyline to the mysterious, time-forgotten ghost town of Kolmanskop near Lüderitz, Southern Africa packs a big punch of eclectic offerings for a noteworthy cruise holiday. This African region comprises the countries of Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Most cruise ships embark from Cape Town, an interesting port city and South Africa’s legislative capital, boasting a blend of scenic topography and modern buildings perfect for pre-cruise excursions.

      Cape Town rests in the shadow of Table Mountain, caught between the Table Bay and the Cape Flats. Situated in the land of diamonds, Lüderitz is a seaside town in Southwestern Namibia, known for its German colonial buildings, including the art nouveau Go-erke Haus, built into the rock face on Diamond Hill. Another notable port of call in Namibia is Walvis Bay meaning “Whale Bay”, home to abundant birdlife including flamingos, pelicans and Damara terns. North of Namibia lies Luanda, the capital and primary port city of Angolan, with a rich Portuguese heritage and a scenic seafront promenade. From admiring the breathtaking architecture and scenery in Cape Town to visiting some of the most culturally-rich locations in Namibia and Angola, Southern Africa cruises offer an adventurous getaway that you simply can’t miss out on!

      Featured Southern Africa Cruise Deals

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      6* Indian Ocean Serenity: Mauritius, Madagascar, Tanzania & Cape Town

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      | 22 Nights
      Seven Seas Voyager

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      6* Luxury South African Serenade: Wildlife, Vineyards & Beaches

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      | 18 Nights
      Seven Seas Voyager

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      • LoveitBookit Exclusive: Save Up To £2,650pp
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      Better Than Black Friday- LoveitBookit Exclusive

      Cape Town, South Africa, Madagascar & Mauritius

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      | 18 Nights
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      Norwegian Dawn

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      • FREE Premium Drinks Package (Worth Over $1,400pp)
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      Cape Town, South Africa, Madagascar & Mauritius

      From £3,399 pp

      | 18 Nights
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      Norwegian Dawn

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      SOUTHERN AFRICA CRUISE DESTINATIONS

      SOUTH AFRICA

      Southern Africa Cruise Highlights

      Dune 7, Namibia
      Dune 7, Namibia

      Dune 7, Namibia

      Set in Walvis Bay, Dune 7 is the tallest sand dune in Namibia, spanning over 2,000 kilometres and soaring at 383 metres. The towering dune marks the start of the Namib Desert, which is the world’s oldest desert, branching out over to South Africa and Angola. Marvel at the ever-changing hues of deep rusts, crimson and gold that stretch beyond sight as you take a treacherous off-road trek to the highest point of the Namib desert. Experience the thrill of riding a quad bike through the endless expanse of the sand dunes, witness the spectacular sunset over the ocean at the summit or glide down the dune slopes on a sandboard!

      Table Mountain, Cape Town
      Table Mountain, Cape Town

      Table Mountain, South Africa

      Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain blanketed by a “tablecloth of clouds” and looms over Cape Town’s horizon. This unique landscape cuts the city in half, with the Table Bay on one side and the Cape Flats on the other. Wherever you are in the capital, you’ll be blessed with breathtaking sights of the city, the bay, the flats, and the mountain! Plenty of hiking opportunities, or much more casual walks are available to reach the summit, or you can ride the cable if you prefer to take little effort. Admire the unobstructed skyline views from the observation platforms above the clouds, and pop into one of the two souvenir shops for a fridge magnet or classic tee before you leave.

      Marginal of Luanda, Angola
      Marginal of Luanda, Angola

      Marginal of Luanda, Angola

      One of Luanda’s most sought-after attractions is the seafront promenade called the Marginal, passing along the coast of the scenic Luanda Bay. Where the sea meets the city, admire the stunning views of the sea and the bobbing boats on the harbour while appreciating the luxury hotels, modern buildings and high-end shops lining the esplanade. The cruise port, famous for its iconic clock tower, lies at the end of the avenue, while the old fort sits at the other end. Action dominates the bay area when night comes, where people can paint the town red in the vibrant bars and restaurants.

      History and Culture

      History and Culture

      Southern Africa is a multi-ethnic society and a cradle to many UNESCO World Heritage sites. The region has a complicated history that still resonates to the daily lives of the people that call it home today. Perhaps one of the most notable figures in the country’s history is Nelson Mandela,  a militant anti-apartheid activist who defied the jarring Apartheid system, an institutionalised racial segregation system in which one racial group is deprived of civil and political rights. He was imprisoned in the Robben Island for 27 years, and became the first president of the country in 1994. 

      The vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town is steeped with rows of colourful houses lining the narrow cobbled streets, which served as refuge to many political exiles, freed slaves and convicts from India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the Indonesian Archipelago during the apartheid era. This neighbourhood is believed to be where the Islam community originated in South Africa and where the first mosque was built.

      Things To Do in Southern Africa

      National Assembly of Luanda Head Office, Angola
      National Assembly of Luanda Head Office, Angola

      See the stunning landmarks in Luanda

      Angola's vibrant capital packs a punch of noteworthy landmarks and sites. Taking a tour of the infamous Saint Michael Fortress is one of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Luanda, the culturally-rich capital of Angola. Also called Fortaleza de São Miguel, this Portuguese fortress dating to 1576 has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The ornate wall tiles and ancient relics reflect the country’s storied past, covering the colonial period and the era when it once served as a holding place for enslaved people. The historic site now houses the Museum of the Armed Forces and offers panoramic views of the harbour. You can also visit the striking head office of the National Assembly, the Monument of Luanda and the Iron Palace.

      Lüderitz, Namibia
      Lüderitz, Namibia

      Explore the quaint capital of Lüderitz

      Lüderitz is a picturesque coastal town in Namibia, oozing an Old-World charm with its colonial architecture. If you’re a history buff, head to the Lüderitz Museum to learn more about the town’s diamond-mining past and perhaps visit the 55-metre high Bogenfels rock arch for a scenic photo opportunity. Climb the hill to Felsenkirche, a small centuries-old church perched atop the steep Diamond Hill and clinging to a rock face. From the hilltop church, you can enjoy awe-inspiring views of the bay and the Robert Harbour. For those seeking something extraordinary, take a day trip to the nearby Kolmanskop ghost town for an eerie yet unforgettable experience!

      Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa
      Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

      Spot a colony of penguins in Boulders Beach

      A sheltered beach comprising inlets between ancient granite boulders to which it got its name, Boulders Beach is famous for the thriving colonies of African penguins you’ll occasionally come in close contact with around the area. While you can spot these adorable waddling birds throughout the year, summer is the prime time to see the most penguin action. Besides seeing penguins, the beach is a haven for those who want to bask in the sun and sand. The expansive boulders protect the beach from the strong winds and massive waves, making it a suitable wading spot for kids.

      Natural Wonders

      Natural Wonders

      Southern Africa oozes natural beauty, ranging from striking landscapes and highly coveted wildlife to scenic coastlines and teeming marine biodiversity. Peppered across the province are  impressive canyons, lush forests, and wide plains. The region also boasts spectacular sunsets, painting the skies with radiant hues of yellow, orange, and red. An oasis for plants, Fynbos ecosystems are unique to South Africa’s Cape belt. A trip down the region lets you have fantastic encounters with the following natural wonders:

       

      • Cape Floral Kingdom is one of the world’s richest areas for plant biodiversity, comprising 13 protected areas stretching from the Cape Peninsula to the Eastern Cape. 

      • Walvis Bay’s tidal lagoon is a paradise for bird enthusiasts — spot from afar or get up close and personal to flamingos, pelicans and Damara terns lingering on the shores.

      • Valley of 1000 Hills is a place where Umgeni and Msunduzi rivers meet, perfect for soaking up laidback country living and native culture while immersing with the indigenous people.

      Southern Africa Cruise FAQs

      Are cruise lines operating in Southern Africa?

      There’s a wide range of cruise lines operating in Southern Africa with a selection of itineraries and cruise duration to choose from. These liners include Norwegian Cruise Line, Azamara, Royal Caribbean International and MSC Cruises. Meanwhile, if you want to take a leap to small luxury vessels from the mainstream mega-ships, Silversea is one of the biggest operators that offer luxury cruises in the region.

      Do you need a passport to take a cruise to Southern Africa?

      Yes, all travellers are required to present a passport for each entry in South Africa. If your cruise visits different countries in Africa, you may also need a separate visa for the different countries you’ll enter.

      When is the best time to take a Southern Africa cruise?

      The most ideal time to cruise the southern countries of Africa is in the early months of the year, between January and late March. Wildlife viewing is at its prime during winter and spring seasons, from June to November. Winter is a great time for ground safaris while animals usually give birth in spring.

      Where do Southern Africa cruises go to?

      The most popular Southern Africa ports are Cape Town, Mossel Bay, Richards Bay, Port Elizabeth, and Durban. Most itineraries also include the ports of Lüderitz and Walvis Bay in Namibia, ports of Pomene and Maputo in Mozambique, and some crossing through the Indian Ocean islands as well.

      How long does a cruise to Southern Africa take?

      Typical African cruises can last up to 10 days, but these could only cover a few destinations given the proximity of each port from each other. Shorter and longer sailings are available as per your schedule and preference. South Africa has an extensive variety of attractions on offer, so we recommend allotting three weeks or more to enjoy the region in its full glory.

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