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Explore the best of South Africa from the comfort of a boutique expedition ship as it visits ports along the Indian Ocean on our South Africa Discovery cruise. We begin our journey in the former Portuguese colony of Mozambique, starting in the capital, Maputo, exploring its culture before visiting pristine beaches. Our first venture on South African shores gives us the possibility to see rare bird species such as the cuckoo hawk and pygmy goose who make their home in the wetlands. Then it’s time for the big game reserves in the hope of spotting hippos, crocodiles, rhinos, cheetahs and the world’s largest mammal, elephants. Our voyage finishes in Cape Town. Between safaris, swimming and sandy beaches, you’ll be treated to incredible food, meet locals and discover the architecture that’s been heavily influenced by all the cultures that make this place home. Come aboard our cultural cruise of South Africa, and feel inspired by this incredible country.
Mozambique’s capital city has an intriguing mix of Portuguese colonial and Soviet-style buildings on broad boulevards lined with jacaranda and palm trees. Architectural standouts include the early-20th-century domed railway station, painted in green and white, and the Smiling Lion, a distinctive post-modernist apartment block designed by Pancho Guedes. Exploring Maputo is also simply about wandering the historic district of Baixa and taking in the vibrant street scene of bustling pavement cafes, live music and busy markets.
kiosks dishing up local specialities. Umbrellas and loungers are available if you want to relax in the sun, or you can join in an energetic game of beach volleyball or tennis. Hop on a traditional dhow boat for a tour along the shore, or head to the nearby island of Inhaca to visit its marine biology museum and lighthouse.
A busy port town with a deep natural harbour, Richards Bay is surrounded by extensive wetlands sheltering diverse birdlife. It’s part of the Zululand Birding Route, whose rare species include the cuckoo hawk and pygmy goose. You might also catch sight of hippos and crocodiles cooling off in the town’s large lagoon. Long stretches of sand include laid-back Alkantstrand Beach, where you can picnic in the shade, take a dip in the ocean, or watch surfers riding the waves.
South Africa’s third-biggest city, Durban is friendly and cosmopolitan, with long sandy beaches and rickshaw rides along a wide seafront promenade. Beyond the beach, you can meander among aromatic curry houses and spice stalls in the Indian District, then take a stroll through peaceful Durban Botanic Gardens, renowned for its orchid and palm collections. A handful of small museums focus on local history, and nearby Umgeni River Bird Park is home to around 200 species in a lush former quarry.
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.
Port Elizabeth is a coastal city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent water sports opportunities. The city also has several wildlife reserves and national parks, including Addo Elephant National Park, home to over 600 elephants.
Set on a hillside overlooking a vast bay, this laid-back seaside town was the first place where Europeans made landfall in South Africa in 1488. You can trace the area’s history at the excellent Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, which contains maritime displays, 19th-century stone cottages and a botanical garden. Afterwards, stroll to nearby Santos Beach, a wide sandy stretch popular for swimming and water sports. Southern right whales calve in the bay’s calm waters between July and October.
Ending our epic transatlantic journey with one of the most spectacular city sceneries in Africa . Domiated by Table Mountain , Cape town is a cosmopolitan city with plenty of nearby splendid vineyards , wonderful harbour fronts and surprising restaurants where one can indulge on the delicious seafood
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