According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) cruise travel is continuing to enjoy an increase in popularity and awareness amongst all types of travelers. According to a study conducted during the first quarter of 2017, 64% of respondents said that their awareness of and interest in cruise vacations has increased significantly over the past 2 years. While exotic destinations such as the Caribbean remain popular cruise destinations, other continents such as Africa and New Zealand are fast increasing in popularity amongst discerning travelers.
Surrounded by the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea, Africa boasts a ring of first-class ports, making the continent a sought-after cruise destination. Africa is a vast continent with glorious landscapes where you can travel from the plains of the Serengeti to deserts, beaches, mountains and some of the most beautiful cities in the world. You can experience Africa’s rich cultural traditions and natural beauty by embarking on a cruise destined for one of many prolific destinations on earth’s darkest continent.
Cape Town
Situated at the Southern-most tip of the African continent, Cape Town is one of the most picturesque cities you will ever visit. Table Mountain lays at the heart of the scenic city, dividing it into distinct zones with hiking routes, wilderness, forests, public gardens, vineyards and coveted residential areas trailing down its lower-lying slopes. Standing on top one of the most famous mountains in the world, you might feel a bit giddy taking in the city center and docks below you. Cape Town has a rich urban history as is apparent in its diverse architecture ranging from the indigenous Cape Dutch style to the Georgian, French and Victorian buildings along the Mother City. No trip to Cape Town is complete without a visit to the never-ending vineyards, trying some of the award-winning wines produced in the region.
Port Said (Cairo)
On the North-Eastern coast of Africa lays the Egyptian cruise destination of Port Said, approximately 124 miles from the capital city of Cairo. One of the most scenic parts of town has to be the Waterfront Quarter with a 5-mile boardwalk stretching along the harbor and including majestic buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. History fanatics can enjoy a tour through the Suez Canal which connects the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, eliminating the need to sail all around Africa. A trip into the city of Cairo is a must, with the sprawling capital set upon the banks of the Nile River inviting visitors to explore its opulent history. Attractions such as Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum and a treasure trove of antiquities such as royal mummies and King Tutankhamun artifacts all lay waiting to be discovered by avid explorers.
Dakar
A cruise to the splendid city of Dakar will have you experience all facets of the city’s rich culture, from the splendid restaurants to the exceptional music scene and picturesque beaches. The leafy boulevards of downtown Dakar is more reminiscent of the South of France than it is of Africa. The IFAN museum and the array of markets are all popular tourist attractions, offering tourists a somewhat overwhelming selection of everything from fish, flowers and fruit to CDs, silverware and traditional souvenirs.
There are countless gems scattered along the African coastline that can be incorporated into your dream cruise, from Namibia’s striking ecology to Mozambique’s pristine beaches. You may not be able to explore the entirety of the continent in a single go but once the African travel-bug has bitten you, you are bound to return for more expeditions on the celebrated continent.
