Africa - South Africa

Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, serves as the vibrant heart of the island with its bustling streets and diverse cultural fabric. The city is a treasure trove of history and culture, as seen in the Caudan Waterfront, with its shops and eateries, and the Blue Penny Museum, which preserves the island's colonial and maritime history. The bustling Central Market offers a taste of local life with its colourful stalls selling tropical fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods.

Nestled against a majestic mountain backdrop, Port Louis also features stunning natural scenery. The nearby Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, showcases giant water lilies and rare species of plants, providing a tranquil escape from the urban energy.

Le Port, located on the northwest coast of Réunion Island, is a vibrant town known for its bustling port and rich cultural scene. As the main harbour of Réunion, Le Port plays a crucial role in the island’s economy, facilitating trade and tourism.

Visitors can explore the town’s lively markets and enjoy local Creole cuisine at various restaurants and cafes. The nearby Pointe des Galets offers stunning coastal views and opportunities for seaside walks. Additionally, Le Port is a gateway to Réunion’s natural wonders, including the lush landscapes of La Possession and the dramatic peaks of the island's interior. With its mix of industrial significance and cultural charm, Le Port provides a unique glimpse into life on Réunion Island.

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Antsiranana, formerly known as Diego Suarez, is a vibrant port city at the northern tip of Madagascar, renowned for its rich history and stunning natural harbour, one of the largest deep-water harbours in the world. The area is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including the lush Montagne d’Ambre National Park to the south and the surreal red tsingy formations of the Tsingy Rouge Park nearby. These parks offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including lemurs and a variety of endemic bird species.

From the port, visitors can explore the colonial charm of the city, with its French-influenced architecture and lively market at Independence Square. Nearby, the serene waters of Ramena Beach provide a perfect escape, while the historic Windsor Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the bay.

Nosy Be, often heralded as Madagascar's premier beach destination, is an island northwest of the mainland lush with aromatic ylang-ylang trees and rare wildlife. Visitors can discover the island's rich biodiversity at Lokobe Reserve, a sanctuary for endemic species like the black lemur. The vibrant Hell-Ville market offers a colorful glimpse into local life, showcasing spices, handmade crafts, and seafood.

Water enthusiasts will relish exploring the clear turquoise waters of Nosy Be, ideal for snorkeling and diving to view spectacular coral reefs. For a unique experience, take a short boat trip to the surrounding smaller islands, each offering serene beaches and the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a four-course meal and a great bottle of wine. Or grab a burger hot off the grill. Dress up. Dress down. Sit with your friends or make new ones. Dine inside or Oceanside along The Waterfront. Only Norwegian offers the freedom and flexibility of Freestyle Dining, which means no fixed dining times or pre-assigned seating. So follow your mood, not a schedule.

Richards Bay, situated on the northeastern coast of South Africa in KwaZulu-Natal, is renowned for its vast waterfront and deep-water port, one of the country’s largest. This bustling hub is not only vital for coal exports but also serves as a gateway to the region's rich natural landscapes and wildlife reserves. The nearby uMkhuze Game Reserve is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering sightings of rhinos, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

For those who enjoy the sea, Alkantstrand Beach provides golden sands and warm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The city’s waterfront areas are perfect for leisurely strolls, revealing views of the large industrial ships and tranquil sea, illustrating the unique blend of industry and nature.

In Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), cruise ships dock at the Port of Ngqura, which is roughly 20 kilometres (about 12.4 miles) from the city centre of Gqeberha, a 20-minute drive away. Transport services are readily available for those travelling into the city or to nearby attractions.

Gqeberha offers a pleasant blend of urban and natural attractions, including the beautiful beaches along Algoa Bay and the historic Donkin Reserve. For wildlife enthusiasts, a day trip to the nearby Addo Elephant National Park, home to one of the densest elephant populations in the world, is highly recommended.

Mossel Bay, positioned along South Africa’s Garden Route, is a coastal town with a deep historical significance, often cited as the first place Europeans set foot on South African soil. The Dias Museum Complex commemorates this moment with the Maritime Museum and the iconic Post Office Tree, a centuries-old milkwood tree used by Portuguese navigators as a mail collection point.

The natural beauty of Mossel Bay is striking, with the Indian Ocean providing a stunning backdrop for a variety of water-based activities. Its mild climate makes it a year-round destination for beachgoers and those interested in shark-cage diving and whale watching. The blend of history and natural beauty ensures that Mossel Bay offers a rich, immersive experience for all who visit.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries