For a long time, Africa was seen purely as a safari destination. You flew in, stayed in a tent, saw a lion, and flew home. But the cruise market has opened up a completely different way to see the continent, one that appeals to those of us who appreciate a bit of comfort alongside our adventure.
There is a unique connection between the UK and maritime Africa. The Union-Castle Line used to run the mail ships from Southampton to Cape Town, a voyage that was a rite of passage for many. Today, while the mail ships are gone, the route remains one of the most spectacular in the world.
The beauty of seeing Africa by ship is the contrast. You have the dusty, vibrant energy of the ports—whether that is the souks of Morocco or the townships of South Africa—and then you have the sanctuary of the ship. It allows you to dip your toe into the culture without being overwhelmed by the logistics, which, let’s be honest, can be chaotic in this part of the world.
The cape run and south africa
This is the most popular option for the British market. A typical itinerary might start in Cape Town (one of the world’s most beautiful ports) and sail round to Durban and Port Elizabeth.
The draw here is variety. You can visit the vineyards of Stellenbosch one day and be on a game drive spotting rhinos the next. The infrastructure is good, the people speak English, and the value for money—once you are on the ground—is excellent. Many Brits choose to do a “cruise and stay,” adding a few nights in a safari lodge before boarding the ship. It is the best of both worlds.
The nile: a winter staple
We cannot talk about Africa without mentioning the Nile. It has been a favourite winter escape for the British upper and middle classes since the Victorian era. It is arguably the most relaxing way to do sightseeing.
The modern Nile cruise is a slick operation. You drift between Luxor and Aswan, watching the fellucca boats sail by. It is gentle. The weather in January or February is perfect—warm days and cool evenings. It is worth noting that the standard of ships varies wildly here. You need to do your homework to ensure you aren’t on a floating disco.
West africa and the islands
For the more adventurous, ships visiting The Gambia, Senegal, and Cape Verde are gaining popularity. This is often sold as a “winter sun” alternative to the Canaries. It is fascinating, vibrant, and incredibly friendly, but it is less polished than South Africa.
Then there is St Helena. This tiny British Overseas Territory in the middle of the Atlantic is one of the most remote places on earth. Some repositioning cruises stop here on their way south. It is a bucket-list stop for many Brits, offering a strange slice of home (red post boxes and English pubs) in a tropical setting.
The luxury proposition
If you are used to the finer things, the luxury cruise sector in Africa is exceptional. We are talking about small, intimate ships from lines like Swan Hellenic Luxury Africa Cruises or the top-tier suites on Cunard during their world voyages.
In this bracket, the experience is curated to an inch of its life. On a luxury cruise, you don’t just go to a winery; you have a private tasting with the winemaker. You don’t just see the pyramids; you get a private guide who steers you away from the crowds. The ships themselves are havens of tranquillity. Imagine sipping a gin and tonic on your private veranda as the sun sets over the Namibian desert coastline. The service is understated and British-friendly—they know how to make a proper pot of tea, and they understand that “dressing for dinner” is an occasion to be enjoyed, not a chore. It elevates the journey from a holiday to an expedition in style.
Takeaway
Here is a quick summary for the UK traveller:
- if you want zero jet lag and a mix of cities and safari, choose a South African coastal cruise departing from Cape Town;
- if you want guaranteed warmth and ancient history, a Nile cruise in Egypt is the classic choice;
- if you are a solo traveller, look for ships stopping in The Gambia or Cape Verde for a friendly, welcoming vibe;
- if you want a true “voyage,” look for repositioning cruises sailing from Southampton down the west coast of Africa in the autumn;
- if you demand high standards and exclusivity, book a Luxury cruise that incorporates private game drives and stays at high-end lodges.
Further readings
For specific health and safety advice relevant to UK citizens, consult these sources:
- Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): The definitive source for safety advice, entry requirements, and local laws for every African nation;
- TravelHealthPro (NaTHNaC): The National Travel Health Network and Centre, which provides the specific malaria maps and vaccination requirements (like Yellow Fever) for each port of call.
