Africa Cruises

Africa Cruises

Africa is a continent of many ancient mysteries and native tribal cultures. West Africa lures travelers with its friendly people, rich history, and renowned art. And many people enjoy the beaches, vineyards and cosmopolitan cities of South Africa. Africa is generally attractive to experienced travelers with an adventurous spirit and a deep interest and appreciation for nature, the diversity of art, music and language found throughout the world. A cruise to Africa will awaken your senses, broaden your horizons and take you outside your comfort zone.

Africa Cruise Highlights

The vast continent of Africa is home to many interesting and picturesque cities. Its native tribal cultures, extensive history and warm, hospitable people differentiate Africa from any other destination. The continent is full of wildlife viewing opportunities; games and reserves like the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Park can be visited on day trips or overnight stays. Egypt houses must-see ancient pyramids, while Cape Verde is set among dramatic volcanic backdrops like Mt. Fogo.

Popular Africa Cruise Ports

From the rich history and renowned art of West Africa to the vineyards and cosmopolitan cities of South Africa, there is much to explore in this destination. Most cruise ships ports are clustered in Egypt, Morocco, Ghana and South Africa, and many itineraries pair these ports with ones in Spain, Greece, India, or the Seychelles. Here are some of the top ports in Africa:

• Cape Town, South Africa: Located on the southwestern tip of Africa, Cape Town is a stunning city with a rich, complex history. Stroll through the serene Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, take a ferry out to Robben Island to see the prison-turned-museum where Nelson Mandela was once held, or ride a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for surreal views of the entire city.
• Dakar, Senegal: Dakar is a colorful, vibrant city with French influences abounding. Visit the African Renaissance Monument, which stands taller than the Statue of Liberty, or explore an open-air market while sipping on Bissap, a local hibiscus tea.
• Casablanca, Morocco: Despite its close proximity to Europe, Morocco is a culture all its own. The open-air markets, grandiose mosques and French-speaking population will have your head spinning in the best possible way.

When is the Best Time to Go to Africa?

The ideal time to visit depends largely on which region you go to. South Africa offers wonderful beach holidays in its hot summer months, between November and March, while the drier winter months (June to August) are better for game viewing. In West Africa, the dry season (November to April), is ideal for beachgoers, though humidity can be expected year round. Cruises to Africa sail much less frequently than those to other parts of the world, with most traveling between September and February.

What Cruise Lines Go to Africa?

Not many cruise lines sail to Africa, but those that do know it well. Look into these lines if you are you interested in a cruise to Africa:

• Cunard Line: Sail from Cape Town to Adelaide, Hong Kong to Cape Town or Cape Town to Fremantle on a Cunard Cruise to Africa, and enjoy the line's signature White Star Service and excellent onboard programming. Ports of call include the beautiful island of Mauritius; Tangiers, Morocco; and Mindelo, Cape Verde.
• Silversea Cruises: Silversea offers several luxury cruises across the continent, with unique itineraries including ports like Dar Es Salaam, Zanzibar, Maputo and Richards Bay. Excursions with Silversea include a full-day visit to the Shakaland Zulu Village in South Africa and a half-day tour exploring the art of Maputo in Mozambique.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: A mid-size luxury line, Regent will bring adventurers to destinations like Ghana, Gambia, South Africa and Egypt. Popular Regent cruise itineraries include Cape Town to Miami and Lisbon to Cape Town. Pre- and post-cruise excursions are available for those looking to stay a little longer.