Overview
Over the course of your trip, at every port of call, each guest will be able to choose one included excursion from the selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, from Lüderitz, visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop and its colonial buildings now overrun by sand; discover the spectacular Cape of Good Hope and its unique biodiversity read more from Cape Town; or admire the elephants in Addo Elephant National Park during a safari, from Port Elizabeth. The range of experiences on offer promises a great time with lots of variety (for the full list of excursions, click on the Itinerary tab).
On the Atlantic coast, facing an untameable ocean, lies the Namib Desert, the oldest in the world. In Walvis Bay, where your adventure begins, nature has sculpted the sand into mountains, sheer drops, ochre and rust-coloured waves in perpetual motion. In this erg listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, silence reigns supreme. And yet this place is teeming with life.
Zebras and springboks wash here, while in the neighbouring lagoon, the natural barrier formed by Pelican Point offers thousands of flamingos and cormorants, as well as one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals, a choice refuge. In Namibia, the desert is king. This is clearly evident in the ghost town of Kolmanskop. A few kilometres from Lüderitz and its pastel-coloured houses clinging to the cliffs, the sand has long since reclaimed the homes of the German settlers, shrouding the abandoned houses in perpetual mystery.
In stark contrast to the serenity of the desert, the bustling cities of South Africa will immerse you in a unique cultural kaleidoscope. Dominated by the distinctive silhouette of Table Mountain, Cape Town reveals its lively streets and colourful gastronomy. After rounding the mythical Cape of Good Hope, discover Port Elizabeth. Known as the “Friendly City” for its hospitality, it is also the gateway to Addo Elephant National Park, famous for its elephants and other iconic African animals.
From East London and its beaches of fine sand located on the Sunshine Coast, meet the Xhosa community before your next stop, Durban. In the KwaZulu-Natal region, the cradle of Zulu culture, this city of African, Indian and colonial influences is a perfect example of the term ‘Rainbow Nation’. This is where your journey will end, along the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean.
11 Days
Walvis Bay
Durban
Ponant Explorers
184
118
2019
WVBZA310
Itinerary
Walvis Bay is the principal port of Namibia and is situated on the west coast of southern Africa - a quirky town focused around the busy harbour with many townspeople employed in the huge fishing and shipping industry that operates out of it.
One of the most unique and interesting aspects of Walvis Bay is it's huge natural lagoon. This always has numerous seabirds on and around it. Over 100,000 birds were counted on the lagoon, the most noticeable being flamingos and pelicans. These are joined annually by another 200,000 migratory birds, making this an excellent place for keen birdwatchers.
Walvis Bay is the principal port of Namibia and is situated on the west coast of southern Africa - a quirky town focused around the busy harbour with many townspeople employed in the huge fishing and shipping industry that operates out of it.
One of the most unique and interesting aspects of Walvis Bay is it's huge natural lagoon. This always has numerous seabirds on and around it. Over 100,000 birds were counted on the lagoon, the most noticeable being flamingos and pelicans. These are joined annually by another 200,000 migratory birds, making this an excellent place for keen birdwatchers.
Lüderitz, nestled between the arid Namib Desert and the rugged Atlantic coast, offers a striking contrast with its German colonial architecture set against stark natural beauty. The town's colorful buildings and the iconic Felsenkirche, perched on a hill, provide a captivating backdrop. Nearby, the ghost town of Kolmanskop tells the eerie tale of a diamond rush long faded.
A much more haunting location, with an incredibly dark past, is Shark Island - which witnessed the deaths of between 1,000 and 3,000 people when it was the location of a German concentration camp, between 1905 and 1907. Inland from Luderitz is Kolmanskop, the site of a famous diamond mine and ghost town.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.
Top Things to Do in Cape Town:
- Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
- Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
- Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
- Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries
With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.
Top Things to Do in Cape Town:
- Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
- Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
- Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
- Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries
With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.
Top Things to Do in Cape Town:
- Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
- Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
- Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
- Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries
In Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), cruise ships dock at the Port of Ngqura, which is roughly 20 kilometres (about 12.4 miles) from the city centre of Gqeberha, a 20-minute drive away. Transport services are readily available for those travelling into the city or to nearby attractions.
Gqeberha offers a pleasant blend of urban and natural attractions, including the beautiful beaches along Algoa Bay and the historic Donkin Reserve. For wildlife enthusiasts, a day trip to the nearby Addo Elephant National Park, home to one of the densest elephant populations in the world, is highly recommended.
East London, located on South Africa’s southeast coast, is a rare gem with its blend of charming beaches and rich history. As the only river port in the country, the city offers a unique gateway to the Buffalo River, ideal for picturesque boat tours and waterfront activities. The East London Museum, home to the prehistoric coelacanth, showcases fascinating natural and cultural history.
Enjoy the tranquility of Nahoon Beach, famous for its long sandy stretches and excellent surfing conditions. East London also serves as a perfect gateway to safari adventures. Mpongo Park, only 35 kilometres (22 miles) and about a 40-minute drive from the city centre, is a private game reserve where guided safaris provide intimate encounters with elephants, rhinos, and various antelope, showcasing the richness of South Africa’s wildlife.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
British colonial architecture prevails in Durban, yet natural beauty is what characterises this charming city on the Indian Ocean. Durban delights the traveller with its colourful mosaic of ethnic neighbourhoods and memorable excursions to game reserves and the traditional lifestyle of the Zulu people. Ships will dock at the N-Shed Passenger Terminal.
Top Things to Do in Durban:
- spot animals at the Tala Game Reserve
- shop at the Victoria Street Market
- relax at the beaches of the Golden Mile
- visit the PheZulu Safari Park
Life On Board
Take an voyage in French sophisticated luxury when you explore the world on Le Bougainville. Read more
Unwind in the chic decor of your ocean facing stateroom or suite complete with luxury amenities. Read more
Situated at the stern of the ship you can watch the coean pass by as you swim. Read more
Hear the sounds and catch a glimpse of the underwater world through the windows of the Blue Eye. Read more
Enjoy socialising and dancing in the main lounge or applaud a live show in the theatre. Read more
Dine al fresco at the grill or enjoy buffet and table service in the main restaurant. Read more
Ship Reviews (1)
Download Brochure
Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
