Uncover the Best Africa Cruises
Embark on a journey that promises the allure of untouched natural beauty and the joy of exploring rich cultural tapestries with a cruise around Africa. Step on board and get whisked away to a land where stunning coastal vistas meet exciting cultures and wildlife. Lounge in the sun on a luxurious liner or zip from port to port on board a smaller ship; whatever your holiday style, these cruises promise an unforgettable experience.
Top Africa Cruise Destinations
When guests cruise Africa, they open the door to unique experiences that blend immense landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable adventures into a single voyage. From the golden sands of the Sahara to the cities along the Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts, going on an all-inclusive cruise around Africa opens up a world of discovery.
Sailing to Africa promises memorable days that you and your loved ones will look back on for years to come. Explore ancient markets in the warm Moroccan afternoon, marvel at Namibia’s otherworldly deserts, and sip wine beneath the impressive stature of South Africa’s Table Mountain. Africa’s catalogue of destinations showcases a diverse range of experiences, revealing the many sides of this spectacular continent. Perfect for adventurous travellers and culture seekers alike, Africa cruises deliver once-in-a-lifetime experiences at every stop.
Sail the Legendary Seas - Book Your Africa Cruise Today!
From cities steeped in rich culture and history to wildlife pulled straight from an adventure story, the continent of Africa offers cruising experiences that are truly once-in-a-lifetime.
Cruising is not only one of the most convenient ways of exploring Africa’s expansive coastlines, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Climbing on board a cruise ship and setting sail for Africa allows you to cover multiple countries and regions in comfort, without the hassle of long land transfers or domestic flights. Cruises around Africa combine relaxation and exploration, with immersive excursions that bring you up close to the continent's stunning landscapes and cultures.
A bonus of Africa cruises is that a range of itineraries is available, connecting this wonderful continent to other popular regions. As part of your cruise to South Africa or the Sahara, many ships also make stops in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, or the Indian Ocean, offering exciting multi-continent voyages. Whether you're looking for history, nature, or relaxation, an African cruise promises an enriching and memorable experience like no other.
Top Ports on an Africa Cruise
When you choose to cruise Africa, get ready to explore landscapes of delightful wildlife, cities of bustling energy, and historical sites that capture the imagination. This continent has so much to offer!
Morocco
Culture and history collide in the bustling souks of Casablanca, the architectural wonders of Rabat, and the magical city of Marrakesh.
South Africa
Experience a thrilling blend of nature, wildlife, and urban life. Visit Cape Town, where Table Mountain and the Cape Winelands await.
Namibia
From kayaking with seals to scenic flights over the Skeleton Coast, Namibia delivers adventure and tranquillity in equal measure.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Africa Destinations to Visit
Africa is truly emphatic in both size and cruising potential. This expansive continent holds a wide range of secrets for guests to explore, from wilderness teeming with incredible wildlife to beach days to rival anywhere else in the world.
For those with a thirst for adventure, heading out on a cruise around Africa is sure to be a dream come true. Picture yourself scaling the dunes of the Namib Desert or diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether you’ve always wanted to hike through national parks, embark on a wildlife safari, or kayak along pristine coastlines, the opportunities for adventure are endless when you cruise Africa.
If you’re looking to set sail, we can think of few destinations more beautiful to explore than Namibia. This wonderful nation offers a dramatic, almost surreal landscape that’s perfect for guests to satisfy that craving to see something different. Port calls in Walvis Bay open the door to the vast Namib Desert, home to towering red dunes and a unique array of desert wildlife. The town of Swakopmund is also a highlight, adding a cultural twist to your cruise that can’t be found anywhere else. Nature lovers and photographers will also find Namibia to be a gift of an itinerary inclusion, with its wildlife excursions that bring guests face-to-face with landscapes found nowhere else.
Tips for Booking the Best Africa Cruise Deals
Booking your ideal cruise always comes down to timing, as selecting the best time of year for you and your family to sail the seas and see the world is crucial. The best time to embark on a cruise around Africa will depend on your preferred destinations and activities, as well as your priorities regarding weather and crowd size.
Generally, the most popular cruising season runs from October to April. During these months, guests can enjoy warm, dry weather that’s perfect for exploring coastal cities, wildlife parks, and desert landscapes. Cruises to South Africa and Namibia, as well as other nations across the south of the continent, are best taken between November and March, when sunny skies and calm seas are more dependable. When it comes to northern ports like Morocco, spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Planning your cruise during these peak months ensures the best conditions for sightseeing, excursions and cultural immersion.
For cruisers who are less concerned with reliable weather and prefer a less crowded and more relaxed holiday, booking outside of these peak times may be a good option. Great offers can also be found during these off-seasons.
Africa Cruises – Frequently Asked Questions
Visa requirements across Africa vary by country and nationality. We strongly recommend that all guests research the rules for each country they plan to visit. Cruise lines are often happy to assist with entry documentation or provide visa-on-arrival services for select ports of call.
Yes. Many cruises offer safari extensions or full-day wildlife tours in South Africa, Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania. These can often be pre-booked as part of your itinerary. We recommend that all guests check their itinerary before travelling to confirm whether a safari is included to avoid disappointment.
Cruises around Africa can vary significantly in price, depending on the duration, itinerary, and time of year. Guests typically require a fly-cruise to book such a short, affordable break. For a full list of prices, check out our available Africa cruises.
Some of the biggest cruise lines in the industry offer itineraries exploring Africa, including MSC Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Azamara, and Cunard.
Africa cruise itineraries often include:
- North Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia)
- West Africa (Senegal, Ghana, Cape Verde)
- East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar)
- Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia)
Some also combine with Indian Ocean islands or extend into the Middle East or Asia.
The best time depends on the region:
- North & West Africa: October to April
- Southern Africa: November to March
- East Africa & Indian Ocean: June to March, avoiding the wettest months (April–May)
Yes! Many Africa cruises include safari add-ons or port excursions that allow you to see the Big Five, penguins, whales, and other wildlife. Madagascar is known for its unique species, including lemurs.