From Cape Town to Zanzibar: A Day-by-Day Review of My Dream Princess Cruises® Africa Itinerary

There are journeys that merely transport you, and then there are voyages that transform you. My recent sailing with Princess Cruises along the coast of Africa was, unequivocally, the latter. For years, I’ve dreamt of a trip that could seamlessly weave the raw, untamed majesty of the African continent with the refined comfort of a luxury vessel. I imagined waking to the sight of Table Mountain from a private balcony, spending a day in search of the Big Five, and then returning to a world of crisp linens, gourmet dining, and world-class service. This wasn't just a dream; it was a tangible, breathtaking reality.

As a travel journalist with two decades of experience crisscrossing the globe, I’ve learned to recognize the hallmarks of an exceptional itinerary. It’s a delicate balance of iconic destinations, hidden gems, and luxurious sea days that allow you to truly absorb the experience. This Princess Cruises voyage from the cosmopolitan shores of Cape Town to the spice-scented alleys of Zanzibar is, without exaggeration, one of the most masterfully crafted itineraries I have ever encountered. It’s a symphony of culture, wildlife, and relaxation.

In this comprehensive review, I’ll take you day-by-day through this incredible journey, sharing not just the sights and sounds, but the very soul of this African adventure. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or contemplating your first grand voyage, prepare to be inspired. You can explore similar sailings and check live pricing right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to see just how accessible this dream can be.

The Ship: Your Floating Sanctuary at Sea

Our home for this voyage was the magnificent Island Princess, a vessel perfectly suited for a journey of this scale. While large enough to offer a dazzling array of amenities, she retains an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere that never feels overwhelming. From the moment we stepped aboard, the Princess MedallionClass® experience streamlined everything. Our stateroom door unlocked as we approached, drinks we ordered via the app found us effortlessly by the pool, and every crew member seemed to know our names and preferences. It’s this level of intuitive, personalized service that elevates a great cruise to an unforgettable one.

Staterooms and Amenities

We opted for a Balcony Stateroom, a decision I’d recommend to anyone. There is simply nothing that compares to sipping your morning coffee while watching the African coastline glide by. The room was elegantly appointed, with ample storage and the famously comfortable Princess Luxury Bed that guaranteed a perfect night's sleep after a long day of exploration.

Beyond the stateroom, the ship is a destination in itself. Our days at sea were spent in blissful relaxation at The Sanctuary, the adults-only retreat where serenity is the main attraction. Evenings were a culinary delight, from the classic elegance of the main dining room to the specialty restaurants. A personal favorite was Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, where the handmade pasta was as authentic as any I’ve had in Rome.

Key ship highlights included:

• The Piazza: A stunning, three-story European-style atrium that serves as the vibrant heart of the ship, with street-style performers, cafes, and boutiques.
• Lotus Spa & Fitness Center: A haven of tranquility offering everything from hot-stone massages to state-of-the-art exercise equipment with ocean views.
• Movies Under the Stars®: Watching a blockbuster film on a giant poolside screen with complimentary popcorn and cozy blankets is a signature Princess experience not to be missed.
• Enrichment Programs: Onboard lectures about African history, wildlife, and culture provided fascinating context for the ports we were about to visit.

Choosing the right ship and stateroom is a critical part of planning. If you have specific questions about deck plans, dining packages, or accessibility, our dedicated cruise specialists are a phenomenal resource. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a personal consultation—they can share insights you simply won't find online.

The Itinerary: A Tapestry of African Wonders

This is where the magic truly happens. The itinerary is a thoughtfully curated progression from the southern tip of Africa, up its wild eastern coast, and into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Each port offers a unique facet of the continent’s immense diversity.

Days 1-2: Embracing Cape Town, South Africa

Embarkation in Cape Town is an event in itself. The city is a staggering beauty, cradled by the iconic, flat-topped Table Mountain and the glistening Atlantic. We arrived a day early to fully immerse ourselves, a strategy I highly recommend. We took the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain for panoramic views that defy description and explored the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a hub of culture, cuisine, and history just steps from the cruise terminal. The feeling of standing on our balcony as the Island Princess pulled away from this majestic backdrop, with the sun setting over the ocean, was a moment of pure, unadulterated travel joy.

Day 3: At Sea

Our first full day at sea was a welcome opportunity to settle in and explore our floating resort. We enjoyed a leisurely brunch, attended a fascinating lecture on the Zulu kingdom, and found our favorite quiet corner in the library. This is the beauty of cruising—the journey is as much a part of the vacation as the destinations themselves.

Day 4: Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa

Known as the gateway to the Garden Route and world-class game reserves, Port Elizabeth was our first taste of African wildlife. We opted for the full-day shore excursion to Addo Elephant National Park. Seeing herds of these gentle giants, often with their young, roaming freely in their natural habitat is a humbling and profoundly moving experience. We also spotted zebra, warthogs, and the unique flightless dung beetle. It was a safari adventure without the hassle of packing and unpacking—we were back on board in time for a pre-dinner cocktail, sharing stories of our incredible sightings.

Day 5: Durban, South Africa

Durban is a vibrant, multicultural melting pot where Zulu, Indian, and European influences collide. We strolled along the famous Golden Mile beachfront, a bustling promenade alive with surfers and families. The highlight was a visit to the Victoria Street Market, a sensory explosion of fragrant spices, colorful fabrics, and intricate beadwork. The city’s energy is infectious, offering a dynamic contrast to the natural wonders of the previous day.

Day 6: Richards Bay, South Africa

For many, this is the most anticipated port of the entire cruise. Richards Bay is the entry point to the legendary Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa and the place where the white rhino was saved from extinction. This is Big Five territory. Our 4x4 game drive was nothing short of cinematic. Within hours, we had spotted rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and a lazy pride of lions resting in the shade. The thrill of seeing these magnificent creatures in the wild is a memory that will be etched in my mind forever. This is the Africa of postcards and documentaries, brought to vivid life. If this is the experience you're dreaming of, let us help you build the perfect trip around it. You can Plan Your Africa Adventure with one of our expert travel designers.

Days 7-8: At Sea, Crossing the Mozambique Channel

Two glorious days at sea provided the perfect interlude as we sailed northeast towards the exotic islands of the Indian Ocean. The ship’s rhythm becomes your own. We took a cooking class, enjoyed the evening theater productions, and simply relaxed by the pool, watching the deep blue sea stretch to the horizon. Have a quick question about onboard activities or which stateroom has the best view for this leg of the journey? The 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner connects you instantly with an expert who can help.

Day 9: Nosy Be, Madagascar

The "Perfumed Isle" of Madagascar did not disappoint. The air itself is different here, thick with the sweet scent of ylang-ylang, vanilla, and frangipani. Our excursion took us to the Lokobe Nature Special Reserve, where we came face-to-face with the island's most famous residents: lemurs. Watching these playful primates leap through the canopy was enchanting. We finished the day on a pristine beach, swimming in water so clear it felt like glass.

Day 10: Mayotte

A true hidden gem, the French overseas department of Mayotte is a place of unspoiled natural beauty. It’s surrounded by one of the world's largest and most spectacular coral lagoons. We chose a snorkeling excursion and were rewarded with an underwater kaleidoscope of vibrant coral and tropical fish. We even spotted several sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water. It felt like discovering a secret paradise that few have had the privilege to see.

Days 11-12: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Our final port, and a grand finale it was. Disembarking in Zanzibar is like stepping back in time. We spent two days exploring the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where intricately carved wooden doors tell the stories of centuries of trade. A tour of a local spice farm was a feast for the senses, tasting cinnamon scraped directly from the bark and smelling fresh cloves and nutmeg. The island's history is as rich and complex as its spices, and its beaches are the stuff of legend. It was the perfect, poignant end to an epic African saga.

Why a Cruise is the Ultimate Way to Experience Africa

I understand that planning a trip of this magnitude can feel overwhelming. The logistics of traveling between multiple countries, arranging safaris, and ensuring safe, comfortable accommodation can be a full-time job. A cruise elegantly solves all of these challenges. You unpack once. Your five-star hotel travels with you. Every day, you wake up to a new, incredible destination without ever having to worry about the details. It’s the perfect marriage of rugged adventure by day and sophisticated comfort by night. You get the thrill of the wild with the security and service of a world-class brand like Princess Cruises.

This itinerary, in particular, is a masterpiece. It delivers the "must-do" safari experiences while also revealing lesser-known coastal jewels. If you feel the call of Africa, I cannot imagine a more perfect way to answer it. Let our team of seasoned travel advisors handle all the arrangements, from flights to pre-cruise hotels and the perfect shore excursions. You can Get a Custom Quote tailored to your exact preferences and receive exclusive perks and amenities you won't find anywhere else.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for an Africa cruise?

The cruise season in this region typically runs from late autumn to early spring (October to April in the Northern Hemisphere) to take advantage of the Southern Hemisphere's summer. This period offers pleasant, warm weather and is excellent for wildlife viewing, as animals are often gathered around water sources.

What should I pack for a cruise to Africa?

Packing should include lightweight clothing in neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive) for safari excursions, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen). For evenings on the ship, smart casual attire is appropriate, with a few formal outfits if you wish to participate in the formal nights. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a good camera!

Are safari excursions included in the cruise fare?

Shore excursions, including safaris, are typically not included in the base cruise fare. This allows you to customize your experience at each port. You can book them directly through Princess Cruises for convenience and peace of mind, or our travel advisors can help you arrange private or small-group tours. We highly recommend booking these popular excursions well in advance as they can sell out. Inquire About This Sailing and we can package the perfect excursions for you.

What is Princess MedallionClass®?

It's a revolutionary technology that enhances your cruise experience. A small, wearable device called a Medallion™ enables features like keyless stateroom entry, touch-free payment, on-demand service (you can order food, drinks, or retail items to be delivered anywhere on the ship), and easy navigation to find your way around the vessel or locate your travel companions.

Is it safe to travel to these ports in Africa?

Yes. Cruise lines like Princess have decades of experience and work closely with local authorities to ensure guest safety. The ports of call are well-established tourist destinations. By traveling with an organized shore excursion, you are with knowledgeable local guides in safe, vetted environments, allowing you to experience the culture and wildlife with complete peace of mind.