Cruise from Cape Town

Yes. Cruise lines such as MSC offer great value because almost everything is included in one price. An all-inclusive fare will include accommodation, all meals, non-alcohol drinks and onboard facilities like swimming pools, fitness centres, live entertainment and activities for kids and teens. Some things may incur extra charges, like specialty restaurants, alcoholic drinks and spa treatments. Specific inclusions may vary based on the cruise line, stateroom selection and package booked.

Every cruise is a unique experience! Passengers can explore the natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula, visit famous wine estates for tastings, and experience local culture through township tours and museum visits. Wildlife enthusiasts may also have the opportunity to spot marine life such as whales and dolphins during the cruise. Longer itineraries might include stops at remote islands and coastal towns along the Western Cape and Namibian coasts. 

Cruise ships leaving from Cape Town are equipped with an array of amenities. Passengers can enjoy numerous dining choices, from buffets to specialty restaurants, along with several bars and lounges. Recreational options include swimming pools, spas, and fitness centres. For entertainment, there are theatres hosting live shows, movie cinemas, and dedicated play areas for children. Some of the newer or more recently refurbished ships might even offer cool extras like rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and outdoor movie screens. 

Themed itineraries are available on some cruises departing Cape Town from time to time. Options might include food and wine or wildlife cruises. 

Only with Viking cruises. All guests must be 18 years old on or before the day they are scheduled to embark on your cruise. 

Adult-only Viking Cruises offers a regular Cape Town to London passage sailing up the west coast of Africa as part of a world cruise. If you want to go on an adults-only cruise, it’s best to speak to a travel agent who can help you find an option that may emphasise adventure or luxury rather than catering for families. 

Yes, cruises departing from Cape Town are highly suitable for families. Major cruise lines such as MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, which operate out of Cape Town, provide extensive facilities tailored to families. These include children's clubs with age-appropriate activities, family-friendly entertainment, and special accommodations designed for family use. Plenty of shore excursions are designed to be enjoyable for guests of all ages, with activities like beach outings, cultural tours, and wildlife viewing. 

Cape Town to Namibia trips taking in Walvis Bay and longer cruises further north to the Mediterranean Sea with stops in Cabo Verde are popular. Western Cape departures to Durban, Portuguese Island and Pomene in Mozambique are also popular, as are longer cruises to Indian Ocean destinations such as Mauritius and further afield to Dubai. 

Yes. If your cruise itinerary allows enough time, a tour is a great way to see more of a cruise destination than you otherwise might. Talk to a travel agent about what sort of tour would suit your itinerary as an add-on. 

A valid passport is essential, and visas may be required depending on the cruise itinerary. For all international cruises, including regional cruises departing from South Africa to destinations such as Mozambique, Namibia or Mauritius, you need a passport with at least two blank pages and a minimum of six months validity from when you arrive back.  It’s also important to pack insurance documents and copies of prescriptions.

In terms of appropriate clothing, make sure you pack clothing suitable for various activities you might be doing on your cruise. In addition to summery poolside and beachwear clothing, prepare also for evening wear when dining, theme party costume, warmer layers for when it gets windy on deck and sturdy footwear for shore excursions.