Cruising Africa

Surrounded by the Mediterranean and Red Seas and the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, Africa is a natural cruise destination. The coastlines are dotted with ports that are ready to welcome cruisers who want a destination that’s out of the ordinary. Here’s a quick look at some of the places where cruise ships call.



On Africa’s Mediterranean coast, Tunis, Tunisia’s capital, lies just beyond the port of La Goulette. The souk (market) is the city’s cultural and social center: sip mint tea while bargaining for antiques, rugs and silver jewelry. Just outside Tunis are the remnants of the ancient city of Carthage, center of the Carthaginian Empire.



Cairo, Egypt, is served by the ports of Alexandria and Port Said. This is the gateway to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, but Cairo itself offers the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, overflowing with artifacts such as treasures from King Tut’s tomb; and the Citadel fortress, which offers more museums and magnificent views.



Located on the Egyptian side of the Red Sea, the port of Safaga is the gateway to some of Egypt's most memorable destinations: Luxor, Karnak and Thebes.



The island of Madagascar sits in the Indian Ocean opposite Mozambique, and the port of Anakao has a laid-back atmosphere with a beach, swimming, diving and surfing. Just to the south, Tsimanampetsotsa National Park’s picturesque flora and fauna include pachypodium trees and lemurs.



The most iconic symbol of South Africa’s Cape Town, Table Mountain can be covered by a “tablecloth” of clouds – if the sky is clear, take the cable car to the top and enjoy the views. Take an excursion to see Cape of Good Hope, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet; or, explore the city’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.



There are a number of other South African ports also included in some cruise itineraries, including Port Elizabeth, Durban, Richards Bay and Mossel Bay.



On Namibia’s Atlantic Coast, Walvis Bay is a popular vacation spot. The natural lagoon is beloved by seabirds, including rare flamingos and pelicans. Try sandboarding, the sandy equivalent of snowboarding, down the sand dunes.



For information on specific African cruise itineraries, talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.



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