Cunard® to Africa: Unveiling Unforgettable Luxury, One Port at a Time

There is a moment, as the deep blue of the Atlantic begins to warm under a strengthening sun, when the very air changes. It’s a subtle shift, a scent on the breeze carrying whispers of spice, earth, and ancient stories. This is the moment you feel it—the magnetic pull of Africa. It’s a continent that doesn’t just invite you to visit; it beckons your soul. To answer this call aboard a Cunard® ocean liner is to weave together two of travel’s most romantic and powerful narratives: the untamed majesty of the African continent and the timeless, golden-era elegance of a legendary voyage at sea.

For the discerning traveler, this isn’t merely a cruise; it is a grand procession. It is the thrill of waking to see the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain from your private balcony, a flute of champagne in hand. It is the profound experience of a safari drive, followed by a return to the sanctuary of White Star Service™, where your every need is anticipated before you even think to ask. This is the promise of Cunard to Africa—a journey that marries exhilarating discovery with unparalleled comfort, creating memories that will resonate for a lifetime.

The Cunard Difference: A Voyage, Not Just a Cruise

In an age of fleeting trends, Cunard stands as a bastion of tradition and refinement. To sail with them is to step into a legacy of ocean travel that harks back to an era of glamour and occasion. This isn't about waterslides and mega-ships; it's about the quiet confidence of a brand that has perfected the art of sea travel for over 180 years. The journey itself becomes as much a destination as the incredible ports you will visit.

Imagine the gentle hum of the ship, a world unto itself. Days at sea are not empty spaces on an itinerary; they are opportunities. You might attend a fascinating lecture by a renowned historian or naturalist, lose yourself in a classic novel in the grand library, or simply lounge on a teak deck chair, a warm blanket tucked around you by an attentive steward. Evenings are a spectacle of elegance, with guests donning their finest for spectacular Gala Nights. The sound of a live orchestra fills the Queens Room ballroom as couples take to the floor, a scene lifted straight from a classic film. This is the rhythm of life at sea with Cunard.

Legendary White Star Service™

The true heart of the Cunard experience is its legendary White Star Service. It’s the white-gloved attendant who greets you by name, the sommelier who remembers your preference for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, and the stateroom steward who ensures your suite is a pristine haven to return to after a day of exploration. This intuitive, impeccable service is the invisible thread that weaves every moment of your voyage into a seamless tapestry of luxury.

The Call of the Continent: An African Itinerary Woven with Wonder

While the onboard experience is magnificent, the destinations are the stars of the show. A Cunard itinerary to Africa is thoughtfully curated to showcase the continent's staggering diversity, from cosmopolitan cities to landscapes of breathtaking, primal beauty. Each port of call is a new chapter in an epic story.

Cape Town, South Africa: The Majestic Gateway

There are few arrivals in the world as dramatic as sailing into Cape Town. The ship glides into the harbour under the watchful gaze of Table Mountain, its flat top often draped in a "tablecloth" of clouds. This vibrant, multicultural city is a feast for the senses and a perfect starting or ending point for your African adventure.

Your days here can be filled with unforgettable experiences:

• Ascend Table Mountain: Take the rotating cable car to the summit for 360-degree views that will leave you breathless, stretching from the city bowl to the vast expanse of the Atlantic.
• Explore the Cape Winelands: Journey to the historic towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, where verdant vineyards cling to the sides of dramatic mountains. Indulge in world-class wine tastings and gourmet lunches at historic estates.
• Visit Robben Island: Take a poignant and powerful tour of the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
• Discover the V&A Waterfront: A bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, it’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the harbour.

The possibilities in and around Cape Town are nearly endless. Planning the perfect pre- or post-cruise stay to truly immerse yourself in the region is essential. Our Africa specialists can help you arrange everything from a boutique hotel in the Winelands to private guided tours. Plan Your Africa Adventure using our secure quote form, and let us handle the details.

Walvis Bay, Namibia: Where Desert Meets the Ocean

Prepare for a landscape that feels otherworldly. In Walvis Bay, the towering, ochre-hued dunes of the Namib Desert—the oldest desert in the world—plunge directly into the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This starkly beautiful contrast creates a unique ecosystem teeming with life.

Shore excursions here are about adventure and wildlife:

• 4x4 Dune Adventure: Experience the thrill of "dune bashing" in a specialized vehicle, riding the crests of colossal sand dunes for an unforgettable adrenaline rush and spectacular photo opportunities.
• Marine Life Kayaking: Paddle the calm waters of the lagoon at Pelican Point, where curious Cape fur seals swim right up to your kayak and dolphins often play in the bay.
• Flamingo Lagoon: Witness the astonishing sight of thousands of pink flamingos wading in the shallow lagoon, creating a vibrant spectacle against the desert backdrop.

Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa: The Safari Portal

For many, the dream of Africa is synonymous with the thrill of a safari. Port Elizabeth, known as the "Friendly City," serves as the perfect gateway to the malaria-free game reserves of the Eastern Cape. This is your chance to witness the "Big Five"—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—in their natural habitat.

A Cunard-curated excursion or a multi-day package arranged by our experts can lead you to world-class reserves like Addo Elephant National Park, renowned for its massive elephant population. Imagine the rumble of the open-air 4x4 vehicle, the scent of wild sage on the wind, and the heart-stopping moment your guide points to a pride of lions resting in the shade of an acacia tree. The sheer majesty of seeing these creatures roam free is a profound and humbling experience.

Choosing the right safari add-on—from a single-day game drive to a luxury lodge stay—can be overwhelming. Our experts have vetted the best local operators and can match you with the perfect wildlife experience. Give our dedicated cruise line a call at 1 (888) 883-0460 to discuss your safari dreams with a specialist who can make them a reality.

Life Aboard: Your Sanctuary at Sea

After a day of profound discovery ashore, returning to the elegance and comfort of your Cunard ship is a pleasure in itself. The transition from the wild African bush to the refined atmosphere of the Commodore Club for a pre-dinner cocktail is part of the unique magic of this voyage. Your ship is more than just transport; it is your floating luxury hotel, your wellness retreat, and your gourmet restaurant, all in one.

Exquisite Dining and Culinary Journeys

Dining is a highlight of any Cunard voyage. From the grand, multi-level Britannia Restaurant with its sweeping ocean views and nightly changing menus, to the intimate and innovative specialty dining venues, every meal is an event. The culinary teams take immense pride in their craft, using the finest ingredients to create dishes that are both classic and contemporary. And of course, no day is complete without the signature Afternoon Tea, served by white-gloved waiters in the Queens Room, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and exquisite pastries.

Enrichment and Entertainment

Cunard’s renowned Insights™ enrichment program brings your destinations to life with onboard lectures from leading experts, including explorers, academics, and diplomats. In the evenings, the Royal Court Theatre hosts dazzling West End-style productions, while live music can be found in a variety of bars and lounges. For a moment of quiet contemplation, find a comfortable chair in the library, which houses thousands of books, or simply gaze at the stars from the promenade deck.

Curious about which stateroom is right for you? You can explore detailed deck plans, view photos of the luxurious accommodations, and compare pricing right now. Simply use the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to see which balcony view is calling your name.

Unrivaled Relaxation and Wellness

Your voyage is also a chance to disconnect and rejuvenate. The serene Mareel® Wellness & Beauty spa offers a range of ocean-inspired treatments, a thermal suite, and hydrotherapy pool. Take a yoga class with an ocean view, maintain your fitness routine in the state-of-the-art gym, or simply find a quiet corner to read and watch the world sail by. This is your time to restore your mind, body, and soul.

If you have a quick question about spa packages or onboard amenities, our team is ready to help. Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower-right corner to connect with a Cunard specialist instantly.

Let Us Craft Your Perfect African Saga

A journey of this magnitude deserves more than just an online booking. It deserves the touch of an expert who understands both the nuances of luxury cruise travel and the complexities of planning a trip to Africa. Our team of experienced travel advisors acts as your personal concierge, going beyond simply booking your cruise. We can arrange your flights, secure pre-cruise hotels, book private shore excursions, and seamlessly integrate a once-in-a-lifetime safari or a relaxing stay in the Winelands.

We handle the logistics so you can focus on the magic. Your unforgettable journey to the heart of Africa begins with a simple conversation. We invite you to Get a Custom Quote through our confidential online form. Let us curate the voyage of a lifetime, tailored precisely to your dreams and desires.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cruising to Africa with Cunard

What is the dress code on a Cunard Africa cruise?
Cunard maintains a classic cruising tradition. During the day, the dress code is casual and relaxed. In the evenings, the attire is "Smart Attire" (jacket optional for men, stylish separates or dresses for women). On spectacular Gala Nights, guests are invited to dress in their finest formalwear—tuxedos, dinner jackets, or dark suits for men, and evening or cocktail dresses for women—to celebrate the occasion.

Are safari excursions included in the cruise fare?
Shore excursions, including safaris, are typically not included in the base cruise fare. This allows guests the flexibility to choose the experiences that most appeal to them. You can book excursions directly through Cunard or allow our agency to arrange private, more customized tours and multi-day safari packages for a more in-depth experience.

What is the best time of year to cruise to South Africa?
The primary cruise season for South Africa is during its summer, from November to March. This period offers warm, pleasant weather perfect for exploring the ports and enjoying the ship's outdoor decks. It's also an excellent time for wildlife viewing on safari.

What kind of onboard entertainment can I expect?
Cunard offers a sophisticated and diverse entertainment program. You can enjoy full-scale musical productions in the Royal Court Theatre, live classical and jazz music in various lounges, ballroom dancing in the Queens Room, a state-of-the-art cinema, and fascinating lectures from guest speakers. On Queen Mary 2, you can even experience the unique Illuminations planetarium.

Why should I book my Cunard cruise through a travel agent?
Booking a significant voyage like a Cunard cruise to Africa through an experienced travel agent provides immense value. We offer personalized service, expert advice, and can often access exclusive amenities or pricing. Most importantly, we manage all the complex details—from flights and transfers to custom pre- and post-cruise land packages—ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience from start to finish.