Cape Town to Zanzibar

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

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

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.

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

Richards Bay, situated on the northeastern coast of South Africa in KwaZulu-Natal, is renowned for its vast waterfront and deep-water port, one of the country’s largest. This bustling hub is not only vital for coal exports but also serves as a gateway to the region's rich natural landscapes and wildlife reserves. The nearby uMkhuze Game Reserve is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering sightings of rhinos, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

For those who enjoy the sea, Alkantstrand Beach provides golden sands and warm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The city’s waterfront areas are perfect for leisurely strolls, revealing views of the large industrial ships and tranquil sea, illustrating the unique blend of industry and nature.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Bazaruto Island lies within the eponymously named archipelago, which forms a chain of barrier islands a short distance off the coast of Mozambique. The archipelago became a National Park in 1971 in recognition of its precious and varied flora and fauna, including iconic animals such as sea turtles and dugongs.

At least 170 bird species have been recorded across the 6 islands and nearby waters, along with 48 species of reptiles, 21 land mammals, 9 marine mammals, 500 species of mollusc and 2000 species of fish. Sighting even a small fraction of this diverse assemblage of wildlife will make the journey to Bazaruto Island worthwhile.

The protected western coastline exudes the air of tropical tranquillity, with palm trees casting shade on white sand beaches that are lapped by clear warm waters. If not swimming then delve deeper into the interior to see if, with your ship's ornithologist you can differentiate between Blue-cheeked and Madagascar Bee-eater as they intently scan for flying insects from their prominent perches. More identifiable perhaps are the Common Waxbills, zebra-like with a striking scarlet mask, and occurring in boisterous flocks in grassy and reedy areas.

Don’t think for a minute that the hunt for exotic wildlife is easy - it can remain hidden despite ear-shattering shrieks that belie its obviousness - but for those who are patient and persevere, the bragging rights at dinner are endless, if you have seen for example, the golden blind legless skink, a sub-species endemic to the island.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Nosy Be, often heralded as Madagascar's premier beach destination, is an island northwest of the mainland lush with aromatic ylang-ylang trees and rare wildlife. Visitors can discover the island's rich biodiversity at Lokobe Reserve, a sanctuary for endemic species like the black lemur. The vibrant Hell-Ville market offers a colorful glimpse into local life, showcasing spices, handmade crafts, and seafood.

Water enthusiasts will relish exploring the clear turquoise waters of Nosy Be, ideal for snorkeling and diving to view spectacular coral reefs. For a unique experience, take a short boat trip to the surrounding smaller islands, each offering serene beaches and the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Assumption Island, part of the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, is a remote and pristine destination known for its untouched natural beauty. The island features white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The surrounding coral reefs teem with marine life, offering exceptional underwater experiences.

The island's interior is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and lush vegetation. As a protected area, Assumption Island offers a serene escape, with minimal human activity ensuring a tranquil environment. This idyllic island is ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful and unspoiled retreat.

Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of the planet's largest coral atolls, offering an unspoiled sanctuary for a plethora of wildlife.

Its isolation has preserved its biodiversity, including the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life through snorkeling or diving, witnessing the atoll's dynamic underwater ecosystem firsthand.

The atoll's vast mangrove habitats and pristine beaches provide serene spots for birdwatching and leisurely walks, offering a rare glimpse into one of the world's most untouched natural landscapes.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Zanzibar, Tanzania, is an enchanting island that captivates with its blend of cultural richness and scenic splendor. Known for its aromatic spice farms and the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can wander through narrow, bustling streets to discover grand old Arabian homes, and lively bazaars. The island's coast is lined with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, ideal for snorkeling or simply relaxing under the sun.

Don't miss a visit to the Forodhani Gardens in the evening where you can savor local delicacies such as grilled seafood and Zanzibari pizzas among the locals. This vibrant night market provides a delicious introduction to the tastes of the island, making for a perfect late start to the day's adventures.