Asia Isles & Coasts of Africa

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Singapore is the world's only island city-state. Established in 1819 for the East India Company by Sir Stamford Raffles, after whom the famed hotel is named, it grew from a secluded backwater into a shabby port city before transforming itself into a sophisticated metropolis. The technology and economy are highly advanced here, yet the islands host plentiful green parks with tree-lined footpaths and the stunning National Orchid Garden. For a panoramic view of it all, the observation deck of the Marina Bay Sands towers offers the perfect solution.

This narrow passage between Malaysia and the Indonesian island of Sumatra was a major route for early traders shipping glassware, precious stones, camphor, ivory and sandalwood. Today, it is one of the busiest shipping channels in the world, linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Along this historic waterway, the lush shores of Sumatra grace the horizon to the south, stretching out to lowlands, mangroves and swamps. The more urban skylines of Malaysia—George Town and Kuala Lumpur among them—shimmer in the distance to the north.

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur was built by Chinese tin prospectors in the mid-1800s. Since then, the city of KL, as the locals call it, has grown into a stunning mix of colonial, Moorish, Tudor, neo-Gothic and Grecian-Spanish architecture. The two-story shophouses of Old Market Square, with storefronts below and residences above, reveal the lives of merchants. The magnificent Petronas Towers are the centerpiece of this fascinating city; the side-by-side twin spires resemble a pair of rockets, connected by a two-story sky bridge that spans the 41st and 42nd floors.

Capital of the Malaysian island of Penang, George Town has long been a crossroad. Today, it is a glorious celebration of culture, one of Asia's most colorful corners. Malays, Indians and Chinese all share a past here, as a ride around town via a pedaled trishaw will show. George Town's unique cityscape features shops from colonial days, Buddhist and Taoist temples, and kongsi, brightly painted clanhouses that traditionally open their doors to all who share a surname. The town's rich literary past includes residents such as Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Noël Coward.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town's diverse culture is on display through its architecture and cuisine. The first British settlement in Southeast Asia, the city was an important trading post. Today, well-preserved buildings line the city's streets amid vibrant market stalls that celebrate George Town's rich heritage. Malay, Chinese and Indian fare pay homage to the rich cultural melting pot of the city's population. A stroll around the old town's narrow streets is a must-do activity for any food-loving visitor.

The Thai island of Phuket offers more than picturesque beaches and sweeping vistas of sparkling azure waters. The island was long a major stop on trade routes between India and China, often mentioned in ship logs of European sailors. Around 1545, one Portuguese explorer called the island Junk Ceylon, and the name stuck for decades.

Later, the French, Dutch and English competed for the island's tin trade; the French East India Company won and played a role in local politics until 1688. Today, old Sino-Portuguese shop-houses and monuments to Buddha dot the island.

Traverse the Bay of Bengal, the world's largest bay and a vital trade route for global maritime commerce of goods such as textiles, petroleum and petrochemicals, minerals and agricultural and seafood products. Renew your body, mind and spirit in our Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea. Whether you unwind in the Sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, you will feel recharged and revitalized.

Brimming with old-world charm, Colombo is Sri Lanka's cultural epicenter. With its large harbor and strategic seaside location, Colombo quickly earned favor among ancient traders. The island was first colonized by the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch, then the English, who ruled until the country gained independence in 1948. Still today, evidence of all three nations is clear in the cuisine, language and architecture. Within the city's 19th-century fortress stands the neobaroque Old Parliament Building, and the city's streets carry the names of former British governors.

Sri Lanka's rich culture, colonial history and stunning setting merge along the mile-long Galle Face Green, nestled between the ocean and the business district. On this welcoming lawn kissed by sea breezes, young men play cricket, couples stroll and children fly kites. Food vendors may tempt passersby with isso wade—deep-fried shrimp cakes—or other treats. The prestigious Galle Face Hotel, built by the British in 1864, serves refreshing gin and tonics and offers a complete tea service. Its veranda is the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Sail the azure waters between the island nations of Sri Lanka and the Maldives at the tip of India's southern point. The Laccadive Sea has been a thriving region for pearl fishing for thousands of years. As you sail today, relax in the Explorers' Lounge, inspired by epic journeys of discovery. Marvel at the views through the two-story panoramic windows as you share a cocktail with friends, or settle down to read a book.

Male, the capital of the Maldives, is the gateway to this enchanting, low-lying archipelago scattered across the equator. Remotely situated some 620 miles southwest of India and Sri Lanka and consisting of 26 atolls covering approximately 115 square miles, Asia's smallest country is a tropical paradise full of white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees and tranquil lagoons teeming with birdlife. Offshore, colorful reef fish, sea turtles and other marine life mingle among the vibrant coral gardens, making the Maldives a premier destination for curious divers and snorkelers.

Sail the calm waters of the Indian Ocean, used to transport gold, myrrh, pottery, grain, dates and countless other products for more than 7,000 years. Admire the views as you sail today and enjoy an al fresco dining experience. The Aquavit Terrace serves a range of International fare and casual dining favorites, as well as a range of superb cocktails inspired by our destinations.

Victoria, the capital and largest city of the Seychelles archipelago, sits on the island of Mahé in the western Indian Ocean. Originally settled by French colonists and called L'Établissement, it was renamed after Queen Victoria during the early 19th century when it became a British colony. Exuding tropical charm, its landmarks include the Clock Tower, an iconic structure erected in 1903 to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, bustling with vibrant colors and flavors, showcases the island's abundance of spices, fruits and fish.

Long before the Portuguese, the Greeks and Romans sailed the Indian Ocean to establish trade with southern India. The Tamils exported spices, silk and exotic animals, which can be seen in the mosaics of ancient Roman villas. As you sail, explore our well-curated Library, tucked in a private alcove of the Living Room, and select from a broad range of titles. Read a book by the Main Pool, a calming oasis in any weather with its retractable roof, allowing for year-round swimming.

Kenya's chief port and a coastal gem, Mombasa is a melting pot of traditions. Located on a coralline island and linked by a causeway to the African mainland, it boasts a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern and African cultures, having been a key Indian Ocean port since the 14th century. The narrow streets of Mombasa's old town are lined with ornately styled architecture and home to mosques, cathedrals and Hindu temples, while lateen-rigged dhows and small vessels anchor in its ancient port between trips to trade with the Arabian Peninsula, Persian Gulf and India.

The lands outside of Mombasa are the home of the Maasai people, an Indigenous nomadic ethnic group in Kenya and Tanzania with a captivating culture rooted in their pastoral lifestyle. Their history is marked by resilience against colonial forces and a deep connection to the land. Their age-old traditions revolve around cattle herding, warriorhood and communal living. The Maasai are renowned for their distinctive red clothing, intricate beadwork and high-jumping dance. Today, Maasai communities balance tradition with modern challenges to preserve their rich heritage.

Zanzibar and its namesake archipelago are located off the coast of Tanzania. A beacon of Swahili culture, its history is marked by Persian settlers, Omani sultans and a pivotal role in the ivory and spice trades. The island's geography features the central ridge of Masingini and indigenous forests, home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Zanzibar also is heavily invested in the Blue Economy, a holistic initiative encompassing a range of activities that balance economic development with the conservation of marine biodiversity.

Zanzibar is a symbol of Tanzania's multicultural heritage, a historical crossroads of African, Arab and European cultures. Located on the western side of the island, its well-protected deepwater harbor was once a major hub for international trade. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with historic buildings that reflect an array of influences. The island's lush landscapes, fringed by white sandy beaches and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean, complement its vibrant cultural tapestry.

Sail the Indian Ocean, the 3rd largest in the world. It is almost six times the size of the United States, spanning more than 6,000 miles from Africa's southern tip to Australia's west coast. Spend a relaxing day at sea to unwind and admire the vistas from your stateroom veranda.

Andoany, formerly known as Hell-Ville, is the small capital city of Nosy Be, an island off Madagascar's northwest coast. The island is known for its crater lakes, waterfalls and rainforests, which are home to an array of wildlife. The Lokobe Nature Preserve hosts endemic lemurs, bats, reptiles and birds. Nearby Nosy Komba allows glimpses of the rare black lemur. The waters offshore support extensive coral beds, attracting divers and snorkelers. Nosy Tanikely, a small uninhabited island, is famous for its unmarred beauty and frequent sea turtle sightings.

Teeming with life, the Indian Ocean spans vast distances, harboring underwater mountains, warm currents and unique ecosystems. Linger on the Sun Deck of your veranda for vistas of azure and turquoise as you sail through some of the world's most beautiful waters. Perhaps you will take a dip in the Infinity Pool or stroll the Promenade Deck.

Though the Portuguese landed here in 1544, they did not fortify the nascent town until 1787. One hundred years later, as neighboring South Africa grew in economic prominence and gold was discovered nearby, the need to deepen the harbor for shipping increased. A rail link into the port from inland reaches further bolstered the city's prosperity, and by the mid-20th century, South Africans and Rhodesians (today's Zimbabweans) were vacationing in Maputo for its fine hotels, restaurants and beaches.

Located on the Mhlatuze River, Richards Bay is home to Africa's deepest natural harbor. Established during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 as a make-shift harbor, it was registered as an official town in 1969. Visitors can explore some of Africa's wildlife; Hluhluwe-imfolozi Park is Africa's oldest, and within the vicinity is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to bathing hippos and crocodiles. The town's small-craft harbor offers captivating views of tugboats, yachts and other vessels amid a vibrant waterfront atmosphere.

The largest city in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, Durban's Zulu name translates into 'bay.' Durban is graced with stately Victorian touches, from the old Town Hall to the tree-lined Esplanade. The waterfront promenade invites leisurely strolls kissed by Indian Ocean breezes. The Durban Botanic Gardens are Africa's oldest, founded by British colonialists in 1849 as an extension of England's Kew Gardens. Durban is home to the largest Indian population outside India, infusing the city with a rich Hindu spirit and curry aromas.

The colonists built forts on the Eastern Cape to defend against the indigenous Xhosa people and approaching ships. German settlers arrived later and lent some surrounding towns, such as Berlin, their names. As East London grew, the harbor we see today was constructed to support trade. Today, East London is a cultural center rich in history, resting where the nation's Sunshine and Wild Coasts meet. Stately Victorian buildings recall its British past and the fascinating East London Museum holds unique ecological specimens, such as the world's only known dodo egg.

Previously called Port Elizabeth, the city's name was changed in 2021 to the Xhosa and Southern Khoe name for the Baakens River that flows through the city. Along with the surrounding towns and townships, Gqeberha forms part of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Its urban coastline is dotted with picturesque, Blue Flag beaches which are popular hotspots for locals and visitors alike. In addition, the city serves as a gateway to the Eastern Cape's wildlife and great outdoors, including safari adventures to witness the 'Big 5' game species.

Traverse the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and discover its biodiverse life that nurtures colorful coral reefs and ancient seamounts. Enjoy the amenities of your ship as you sail. Perhaps take a breath of fresh air on a brisk walk around the Promenade or begin your day with a workout in the well-equipped Fitness Center.

Cape Town enjoys one of the world's most picturesque settings at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain. The cosmopolitan city is the gateway to dramatic coastal splendor, a thriving wine country and a rich array of cultural venues that embody the spirit of the 'Rainbow Nation.' The city's heritage took root in Company's Garden, where 17th-century European settlers grew food to stock ships rounding the cape. In and around the celebrated Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, historic architecture and delicious cuisine reflect an array of African, Dutch, English and Malay influences.

One of Cape Town's most colorful and fascinating districts, Bo-Kaap unfurls along the slopes of Signal Hill. This kaleidoscopic neighborhood of brightly hued houses lining cobblestone streets is home to the vibrant Cape Malay culture. The Asian flavor remains in sacred mosques, fragrant spice markets and delicious restaurants. The noontime cannon that booms from atop Signal Hill once helped sailors synchronize their watches, but today it ushers in the lunch hour, when the aromatic scent of Cape Malay cuisine fills the air as it drifts from local eateries. After breakfast, disembark your ship and journey home.