From the panoramic views from Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa's landscapes are as varied as its history and culture. Experience them on a cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or it's your first time on the high seas, there's a cruise to Africa that's right for you.
Norwegian also offers a range of exciting shore excursions so you don't have to lift a finger planning your next adventure. Just kick back, relax, and enjoy Norwegian's cruising experience. Ready to start planning? Embark on an extraordinary voyage to the diverse shores of Africa with Norwegian Cruise Line.
Unforgettable Destinations Await
Ports of call on a cruise to Africa include some of the most sought-after vacation spots on the continent. These stunning cruise ports are just a few of the incredible destinations you can enjoy on a Norwegian cruise to Africa. Whether you're a history buff, sunseeker, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or adventurer, Norwegian offers a host of itineraries for Africa cruises in 2025.
Choose from remarkable itineraries on two beautiful ships, Norwegian Dawn or the recently refurbished Norwegian Sky. Some itineraries include an overnight stay in Cape Town, the Seychelles or Richards Bay, allowing you to explore even more. Or take a bus tour to Signal Hill for a magnificent sunset. The choice is yours with longer times in port.
Cape Town, South Africa
As the country's oldest and most vibrant city, Cape Town offers a host of exciting activities. Experience everything special that Cape Town has to offer whilst staying in this stylish and elegant setting. Located in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Commodore Hotel provides sweeping views of Table Mountain, Cape Town Harbour and Robben Island. Sleek, contemporary rooms feature minibars, desks, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as tea and coffeemaking facilities. There's 24-hour room service.
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- Visit Robben Island, where former South African president and activist Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for nearly three decades.
- Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
- Enjoy birdwatching on a hike through more than 1,300 acres of lush natural areas at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Mombasa, Kenya
Mombasa is a mosaic of African, Indian, and Arabian cultures.
- Delve into the turquoise waters at Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve for waterskiing, snorkeling, and diving. You'll find stunning coral reefs and undersea shipwrecks to explore.
- Get off the beaten path at Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, and get up close and personal with African wildlife, such as giraffes, elands, oryx, and ostriches, as they roam their natural habitat.
Nosy Be, Madagascar
For the ultimate beach paradise, look no further than Nosy Be island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Formed by volcanic activity, Nosy Be's lush, forested landscapes feature numerous craters and crater lakes. Nosy Be translates to Big Island, and this biodiversity hotspot lives up to its name. It's the ultimate outdoor playground for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Discover the heavenly scent of ylang-ylang on a plantation tour.
- Cast a line on a deep-sea fishing excursion.
The Wildlife Enthusiast’s Guide to Madagascar
Port Louis, Mauritius
At the heart of Port Louis, the lively capital of Mauritius, lies the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide). Built by the British in 1840 atop a towering hill, this basalt fort provides panoramic views of the city. The hotel is ideally located in the heart of Mauritius’ capital city, on the waterfront of Port Louis. Within walking distance, you'll find Champs de Mars, a thoroughbred horse racing track where you can enjoy an exciting day at the races. Stop by the Blue Penny Museum, which offers a detailed look at the art and history of the island.
Victoria, Seychelles
Victoria, on the island of Mahé, is the capital of Seychelles and the republic's largest city. More than 200 plant species grow here naturally, and about 80 are found nowhere else on the planet. For this reason, the National Botanical Garden is a must-see attraction on your Africa cruise to Seychelles. Another top spot for cruisers is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a natural palm forest that has remained nearly unchanged since prehistoric times.
Safaga, Egypt
Situated along the Red Sea, Safaga's hot desert climate, crystal-clear waters, and soft, white-sand beaches make it an ideal year-round port of call. Best known as a health and wellness destination thanks to the therapeutic properties of the local sand and mineral springs, Safaga is the perfect cruise port to relax and unwind. Alternatively, you can take part in various watersports, such as windsurfing, diving, or kitesurfing, in Safaga's warm waters.
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Walvis Bay, Namibia
If you're hoping to glimpse wildlife on your cruise to Africa, Walvis Bay is the place for you. Situated at the edge of the Namib Desert, the town features a large lagoon, salt pans, and a bird sanctuary that attracts a diverse range of species. In the summer months, more than 150,000 migrant birds call the area home. Other animals you might spot in Walvis Bay include seals, dolphins, and whales.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Located just 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa, Zanzibar consists of a chain of tropical islands. Its pristine beaches and colorful markets make it a favorite cruise vacation destination.
- Explore the diverse marine life among the coral reefs on a snorkeling adventure.
- Wander through the labyrinth of historic streets in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Unguja island.
Wildlife Encounters
The scenery you'll witness in Africa is as wild and diverse as the creatures that freely roam. Take a day safari from Richards Bay or visit Addo Elephant National Park near Port Elizabeth. In the west, explore world-class vineyards in the fertile Cape Winelands and hang out with adorable African penguins at Cape Town's Boulder Beach. Come face-to-face with white rhinos, elephants, cheetahs, lions, zebras and more in an Open Game Drive Safari. Hluhluwe Game Reserve is one of the oldest proclaimed reserves in Africa, and only an hour away from Richards Bay.
Important Itinerary Updates
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced significant changes to the itinerary of the Nov. 16, 2024, sailing onboard the Norwegian Sky. Sailing to the Canary Islands and Africa, the 21-night cruise has replaced three ports, as well as updated port times in six stops. Citing fuel optimization efforts, calls to Casablanca and Agadir, Morocco; and Banjul, Gambia have been replaced.
According to a statement sent to booked guests and travel partners, the adjustments were made as part of Norwegian’s commitment to the environment. “We are committed to providing the best vacations at sea and have been working tirelessly to continue elevating the quality of the overall guest experience while positively impacting society and the environment,” the company said.
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“As we continue to optimize itineraries for fuel efficiency, as part of our commitment to the environment and sustainability efforts, we have adjusted the itinerary,” Norwegian continued while apologizing for any inconveniences caused by the changes. “We recognize the importance that destinations play in our guests’ vacation decision-making process and assure you that these modifications were made with an optimal guest experience top of mind.
Hotel Information
Classically styled and indulgent, yet incorporating world-class amenities with contemporary emphasis, Southern Sun The Cullinan is beautifully designed. The hotel offers guests a choice of 394 superbly appointed en-suite rooms, each tastefully furnished and designed for maximum comfort.
Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodations will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and a surcharge will apply.
