What Cruise Lines Go to Africa Explore Top Destinations Now

Several major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer voyages to Africa, connecting travelers to iconic destinations like Cape Town, Zanzibar, and the Seychelles. These itineraries often feature immersive shore excursions, wildlife safaris, and cultural tours, making Africa a premier choice for adventurous cruisers seeking unforgettable experiences along the continent’s stunning coastlines.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises offers luxury sailings to South Africa and Cape Town.
• Holland America features extended voyages along Africa’s west and east coasts.
• Oceania Cruises delivers immersive itineraries with cultural and wildlife-focused stops.
• Regent Seven Seas includes all-inclusive Africa cruises with premium shore excursions.
• MSC Cruises provides budget-friendly options for Mediterranean-to-Africa routes.
• Book early for best cabins and deals on popular Africa cruise seasons.

What Cruise Lines Go to Africa? Explore Top Destinations Now

When most people think of African travel, safaris in Kenya or South Africa, or the pyramids of Egypt might come to mind. Yet, there’s another way to experience this vast, diverse, and culturally rich continent: cruising. Africa’s coastline stretches over 26,000 miles, offering access to vibrant port cities, pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and wildlife-rich national parks. Cruising to Africa isn’t just a vacation—it’s an immersive journey through ancient civilizations, colonial history, and natural wonders.

From the sun-kissed shores of Cape Town to the bustling souks of Casablanca, African cruises provide a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural discovery. Whether you’re drawn to the Mediterranean elegance of North Africa, the wild beauty of the Indian Ocean islands, or the untamed coasts of East and West Africa, several cruise lines now offer itineraries tailored to these destinations. In this guide, we’ll explore what cruise lines go to Africa, the top ports and destinations, onboard experiences, and practical tips to help you plan your dream African cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time explorer, Africa’s maritime treasures await.

Top Cruise Lines That Sail to Africa

1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a leader in luxury African itineraries, offering all-inclusive, high-end experiences across the continent. Their Africa and Indian Ocean voyages are particularly popular, featuring extended port stays and immersive shore excursions. For example, a 14-night “Cape Town to Mauritius” cruise includes stops in Durban, Maputo, and Réunion, with optional safari add-ons.

• Fleet: Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Mariner
• Typical Itineraries: Cape Town round-trip, Indian Ocean explorations, transatlantic repositioning cruises
• Unique Perks: Free unlimited shore excursions, luxury suites, gourmet dining, and onboard enrichment programs on African history and culture

Regent’s “Africa Uncovered” series often includes overnight stays in Cape Town, allowing guests to visit the Cape Winelands, Table Mountain, and the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach. Their small-ship feel and high staff-to-guest ratio make them ideal for discerning travelers seeking comfort and authenticity.

2. Silversea Cruises

Silversea specializes in ultra-luxury, small-ship expeditions, making it a top choice for exploring remote African destinations. Their Silver Cloud and Silver Spirit ships frequently sail along the West African coast, visiting countries like Senegal, The Gambia, and Cape Verde—rare stops for mainstream cruise lines.

• Fleet: Silver Cloud, Silver Spirit, Silver Muse, Silver Dawn
• Typical Itineraries: West Africa cultural voyages, Indian Ocean island-hopping, trans-Saharan repositioning cruises
• Unique Perks: All-suite accommodations, butler service, Zodiac landings, and expert-led excursions (e.g., Gorée Island in Senegal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Silversea’s “Spirit of West Africa” cruise (16 days) departs from Lisbon and ends in Dakar, with stops in Madeira, the Canary Islands, and the Cape Verde archipelago. The line partners with local historians and anthropologists to deliver deep cultural context, making it perfect for intellectually curious travelers.

3. Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises offers a more affordable luxury experience with a strong focus on destination immersion. Their Africa and Indian Ocean voyages often include extended stays in port cities, allowing guests to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. The Oceania Sirena and Oceania Insignia are frequent visitors to South Africa and the Seychelles.

• Fleet: Oceania Sirena, Oceania Insignia, Oceania Vista
• Typical Itineraries: “South Africa & Indian Ocean Wonders,” “Cape Town to Mombasa,” “Seychelles & Madagascar Explorer”
• Unique Perks: Gourmet dining (including African-inspired menus), destination-rich itineraries, overnight calls in key ports

On a 12-night “Cape Town to Mauritius” voyage, Oceania guests can enjoy a full day in Zanzibar, visit spice farms, and explore Stone Town—a UNESCO site. The line also offers pre- and post-cruise extensions to Kruger National Park, combining sea and safari experiences seamlessly.

4. Azamara

Azamara is known for its “Destination Immersion” philosophy, spending more time in port and offering unique cultural events. Their African cruises focus on Southern and East Africa, with a strong emphasis on local engagement. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest frequently sail from Cape Town to Zanzibar.

• Fleet: Azamara Onward, Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey
• Typical Itineraries: “South Africa & Indian Ocean Discovery,” “Cape Town to Mumbai,” “East Africa Explorer”
• Unique Perks: “AzAmazing Evenings” (exclusive cultural events), late-night departures, small-ship intimacy

Azamara’s 16-night “Cape Town to Mumbai” cruise includes stops in Maputo (Mozambique), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), and Mombasa (Kenya). Their “AzAmazing Evening” in Zanzibar features a traditional Swahili feast under the stars, complete with live taarab music and dance performances.

5. MSC Cruises

For budget-conscious travelers, MSC Cruises offers affordable African itineraries, especially along the Indian Ocean and South Africa. While not ultra-luxury, MSC provides a comfortable, family-friendly experience with modern amenities and diverse onboard entertainment.

• Fleet: MSC Opera, MSC Musica, MSC Splendida
• Typical Itineraries: “South Africa & Indian Ocean,” “Mauritius & Seychelles,” “Cape Town to Durban”
• Unique Perks: Affordable pricing, kids’ clubs, international cuisine, and seasonal repositioning cruises

MSC’s 11-night “Cape Town to Durban” cruise includes stops in Port Elizabeth, East London, and Richards Bay. While the excursions are more mainstream, the value is unmatched—perfect for families or first-time cruisers wanting a taste of Africa without breaking the bank.

Top African Cruise Destinations & Ports of Call

1. Cape Town, South Africa

Often called the “Mother City,” Cape Town is a cruise hub for Southern Africa. Nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers breathtaking scenery, rich history, and world-class cuisine.

• Must-See Attractions: Table Mountain (via cable car), Robben Island (Nelson Mandela’s prison), V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
• Unique Experiences: Township tours, wine tasting in Stellenbosch, penguin watching at Boulders Beach, shark cage diving in Gansbaai
• Pro Tip: Book an overnight stay to experience Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife and attend a local jazz performance.

Cruise lines like Regent and Oceania often offer full-day excursions to the Cape of Good Hope and the Cape Winelands, where guests can sample local Pinotage and Chenin Blanc.

2. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar is a tropical paradise with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a fascinating blend of Arab, African, and Indian cultures.

• Must-See Attractions: Stone Town (UNESCO site), Jozani Forest (home to red colobus monkeys), spice plantations, Nungwi Beach
• Unique Experiences: Dhow sailing at sunset, spice farm tours, traditional Swahili cooking classes, snorkeling in Mnemba Atoll
• Pro Tip: Visit the Forodhani Gardens night market for fresh seafood and local delicacies like Zanzibar pizza.

Azamara and Oceania frequently include Zanzibar in their Indian Ocean itineraries, with Azamara hosting its signature “AzAmazing Evening” here.

3. Mombasa, Kenya

Kenya’s coastal gem, Mombasa, blends Swahili heritage with modern energy. Its historic Old Town and nearby marine parks make it a must-visit.

• Must-See Attractions: Fort Jesus (16th-century Portuguese fort), Old Town, Haller Park (wildlife sanctuary), Nyali Beach
• Unique Experiences: Dolphin watching in Wasini Island, mangrove kayaking, visiting a local fish market
• Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a safari extension to Tsavo East National Park, just 2.5 hours away.

Oceania and Azamara often include Mombasa on East African routes, with excursions to the Shimba Hills and coastal villages.

4. Dakar, Senegal

Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is a cultural powerhouse in West Africa. Its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and proximity to Gorée Island make it a standout port.

• Must-See Attractions: Gorée Island (slave trade history), IFAN Museum, Sandaga Market, African Renaissance Monument
• Unique Experiences: Attending a traditional sabar drumming performance, visiting a local art gallery, tasting thieboudienne (national dish)
• Pro Tip: Hire a local guide for Gorée Island to gain deeper insight into its tragic history.

Silversea and Regent are among the few lines offering Dakar as a port of call, often as part of transatlantic repositioning cruises.

5. Victoria, Seychelles

The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, is synonymous with luxury and natural beauty. Victoria, the capital of Mahé, is the main cruise gateway.

• Must-See Attractions: Anse Source d’Argent (iconic beach), Morne Seychellois National Park, Victoria Clock Tower, Takamaka Bay rum distillery
• Unique Experiences: Island-hopping by catamaran, snorkeling with sea turtles, visiting a vanilla plantation
• Pro Tip: Take a guided hike to the summit of Morne Seychellois for panoramic views of the islands.

MSC, Oceania, and Regent offer frequent Seychelles itineraries, with MSC providing the most affordable options for island exploration.

Onboard Experiences & Cultural Immersion

1. African-Themed Dining & Cuisine

Many cruise lines now feature African-inspired menus to enhance cultural immersion. Oceania, for example, offers “Taste of Africa” nights with dishes like bobotie (South African baked dish), jollof rice (West African staple), and tagines (Moroccan stew). Silversea partners with local chefs to create regional tasting menus during port stops.

• Regent: Hosts “Cape Malay” cooking demonstrations in Cape Town
• Azamara: Features live African music during dinner on “AzAmazing Evenings”
• MSC: Offers a “Safari Bar” with South African wines and craft beers

2. Enrichment Programs & Lectures

Top cruise lines provide onboard enrichment to deepen guests’ understanding of African history, wildlife, and culture. Lecturers may include historians, anthropologists, or wildlife biologists.

• Regent: Offers lectures on apartheid history, Zulu traditions, and marine conservation
• Silversea: Features talks on West African art, the Swahili Coast, and Indian Ocean trade routes
• Oceania: Hosts wine-pairing sessions with South African vintners

3. Shore Excursions & Local Partnerships

Authentic shore excursions are key to a meaningful African cruise. Leading lines partner with local guides, NGOs, and cultural organizations to offer unique experiences.

• Regent: Offers a private dinner at a Cape Malay home in Cape Town
• Azamara: Organizes a visit to a women’s cooperative in Zanzibar
• Silversea: Provides a guided tour of a Fula village in The Gambia

Pro Tip: Book shore excursions early—popular ones like safaris or cultural tours often sell out.

Best Time to Cruise Africa & Seasonal Considerations

1. Southern Africa (Cape Town, Durban, Maputo)

The best time to cruise Southern Africa is November to March, during the summer season. This period offers warm weather, clear skies, and peak wildlife activity. However, it’s also the busiest, so book early.

• Weather: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
• Wildlife: Great Migration in Kruger (Dec–Feb), whale watching in Hermanus (June–Nov, but cruises rarely align)
• Pro Tip: Avoid December if you dislike crowds; January–February offers better pricing and fewer tourists.

2. East Africa (Zanzibar, Mombasa, Seychelles)

Cruise East Africa from April to June (dry season) or September to November (shoulder season). Avoid the long rains (March–May) and cyclone season (November–April in some areas).

• Weather: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
• Wildlife: Migratory birds in Lake Manyara (Nov–Feb), turtle nesting in Seychelles (Oct–Feb)
• Pro Tip: September–October is ideal—fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent snorkeling conditions.

3. West Africa (Dakar, Banjul, Cape Verde)

West Africa cruises are best from October to April, the dry season. The Harmattan wind (Dec–Feb) brings cooler temperatures but also dust, so pack accordingly.

• Weather: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
• Cultural Events: Dakar Biennale (odd years, May–June), Cape Verde Carnival (Feb)
• Pro Tip: Choose a repositioning cruise (e.g., Lisbon to Cape Town) for the best value and itinerary depth.

4. Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises

Many African itineraries are part of transatlantic repositioning cruises from Europe to Asia or the Americas. These often occur in April–May and September–November.

• Advantages: Lower prices, longer itineraries, access to remote ports
• Disadvantages: More sea days, variable weather
• Pro Tip: Look for repositioning cruises that include multiple African stops—they offer the best bang for your buck.

Practical Tips for Booking an African Cruise

1. Visa & Entry Requirements

African visa rules vary widely. Some countries (e.g., South Africa, Seychelles) offer visa-free entry for U.S. and EU citizens, while others (e.g., Tanzania, Senegal) require visas.

• Check: Visit the cruise line’s visa information page or contact your embassy.
• Pro Tip: Book through a cruise line—they often handle group visas or provide guidance.
• Example: Silversea assists with visa applications for West African ports.

2. Health & Safety Precautions

Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel. Some countries require yellow fever vaccination (e.g., Kenya, Senegal). Malaria prophylaxis may be needed for East/West Africa.

• Recommended Vaccinations: Yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A/B, tetanus
• Safety Tips: Use cruise line excursions for safety, avoid unlicensed taxis, carry local currency for small purchases
• Pro Tip: Pack a travel health kit with insect repellent, water purifier, and first-aid supplies.

3. Packing Essentials

Packing for an African cruise requires versatility. Include:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen, cotton)
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+)
• Comfortable walking shoes and water shoes
• Adapter plug (South Africa uses Type M, others vary)
• Binoculars (for wildlife spotting)
• Camera with zoom lens (safaris and landscapes)

4. Budgeting & Value

African cruises range from $150–$500+ per person per day, depending on the line and cabin type.

• Luxury (Regent, Silversea): $400–$1,000/day (all-inclusive)
• Mid-Range (Oceania, Azamara): $250–$400/day (premium dining, enrichment)
• Budget (MSC): $150–$250/day (family-friendly, fewer perks)
• Pro Tip: Look for early-booking discounts or last-minute deals on repositioning cruises.

African Cruise Itinerary Comparison (2024–2025 Season)

Cruise Line	Ship	Itinerary	Duration	Starting Price (per person)	Key Features
Regent Seven Seas	Seven Seas Explorer	Cape Town to Mauritius	14 nights	$8,999	All-inclusive, free excursions, luxury suites
Silversea	Silver Spirit	Spirit of West Africa	16 nights	$7,499	Butler service, Zodiac landings, cultural lectures
Oceania	Oceania Sirena	Seychelles & Madagascar	12 nights	$4,299	Gourmet dining, overnight calls, wine tastings
Azamara	Azamara Onward	Cape Town to Mumbai	16 nights	$3,899	AzAmazing Evenings, late departures, small ship
MSC	MSC Opera	South Africa & Indian Ocean	11 nights	$1,299	Family-friendly, kids’ clubs, affordable pricing

Conclusion: Set Sail for an Unforgettable African Adventure

From the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town to the spice-scented alleys of Zanzibar, African cruises offer a gateway to one of the world’s most diverse and captivating continents. Whether you choose the all-inclusive luxury of Regent Seven Seas, the cultural depth of Silversea, or the value-packed itineraries of MSC, there’s a perfect cruise line for every traveler’s style and budget. The key is to match your interests—whether it’s wildlife, history, cuisine, or relaxation—with the right itinerary and onboard experience.

As you plan your African cruise, remember to consider the best time to travel, visa requirements, and shore excursion options to make the most of your journey. With the continent’s rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and wildlife, every port of call promises a new adventure. So, what cruise lines go to Africa? Now you know—and the next step is to book your passage. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and set sail for the adventure of a lifetime. Africa’s shores are calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to Africa for a luxury experience?

Luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, and Seabourn frequently sail to Africa, offering high-end amenities and curated excursions. These lines focus on destinations like Cape Town, Zanzibar, and the Seychelles.

Which African cruise itineraries include safari experiences?

Several cruise lines, including Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, partner with land-based safari operators to combine sea voyages with game drives in Kenya, South Africa, or Botswana. These packages often depart from Cape Town or Durban.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines that go to Africa?

Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offer Africa itineraries with kid-friendly activities and stops in ports like Walvis Bay, Namibia, or Maputo, Mozambique. Their onboard programs cater to all ages.

What cruise lines go to Africa’s lesser-known destinations?

Ponant and Oceania Cruises specialize in unique African ports such as Lüderitz (Namibia) or Toliara (Madagascar), often with small-ship expeditions. These itineraries emphasize cultural and natural immersion.

Do any round-trip Africa cruises depart from Europe?

Yes, Cunard and MSC Cruises operate repositioning sailings between the Mediterranean and South Africa, with stops in Morocco, Senegal, and Namibia. These transcontinental routes are popular during seasonal transitions.

How long are typical Africa cruise itineraries?

Most Africa cruises range from 10 to 21 days, with longer 30+ day voyages offered by lines like Viking Ocean Cruises. Shorter options (7–9 days) often focus on the Southern Africa coast or Indian Ocean islands.