Cruising the Portuguese Islands: A South African Guide

One of the best parts about a cruise holiday is that the journey itself is just as exciting as the destination. Onboard an MSC cruise ship like the MSC Opera, you’ll find plenty to do. There’s onboard entertainment, loads of facilities to keep you busy, and incredible wining and dining too. Being able to enjoy the ‘travelling’ part of a holiday is one of the main reasons cruises are so popular. You could start your mornings with a buffet breakfast featuring fresh coffee, pastries, and fruits before heading up to the deck to enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, take a dip in the pool, relax in a sun lounger with a good book, or even have a spa treatment.

The food and drinks never stop coming onboard, so afterwards, you could treat yourself to a long, lazy lunch at one of the ship’s main restaurants. As the sun sets, the real fun begins with live music, themed bars, and even theatre performances offering something for everyone.

For families, the kids’ clubs and beach activities ensure little ones are entertained, while couples can enjoy romantic dinners under the stars or quiet strolls on deck. With packages for specialty dishes and drinks available to pre-book, you can make your reservation and then forget about all the other arrangements. Especially if you use a travel agent to help you choose the most suitable packages, dates, and add-ons. 

Many cruises from Durban include a stop at Portuguese Island, but depending on your itinerary, you may also explore some of the Indian Ocean’s other treasures. Pomene Island is another stunning stop with pristine beaches and calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Then there’s Maputo, Mozambique’s lively capital. A stop here – while there are beautiful beaches – is more about exploring the local culture. On the other hand, destinations like Port Louis in Mauritius and La Possession in Réunion add something more far-flung to your trip. And, of course, they also have unforgettable beaches and tropical scenery.

If you’re ready to set sail this holiday season, Flight Centre has you covered with exclusive packages tailored for South Africans. Whether it’s your first time cruising or you’re planning your next escape, options for departures from Durban, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth make it easy to plan.

From the moment your ship leaves port to the day you return, a Portuguese Island cruise blends relaxation, adventure, and family fun into one unforgettable holiday.

Book your Portuguese Island cruise with Flight Centre and let the sun, sea, and white sandy beaches take care of the rest. Speak to one of our cruise specialists for the best deals!