Royal Caribbean Africa Cruise Review: Why This is the Trip of a Lifetime

There are journeys that refresh the spirit, and then there are journeys that redefine it. An African cruise falls squarely, and magnificently, into the latter. For over two decades, I’ve sailed the world’s oceans, seeking out experiences that transcend the typical vacation. Yet, the memory of the African coastline, viewed from the serene comfort of a cruise ship, remains etched in my mind as one of travel’s most profound privileges. It’s a continent of staggering contrasts—of ancient deserts meeting cold, wild oceans; of vibrant, modern cities pulsing with life at the foot of monolithic mountains; of wildlife that roams with a freedom that stirs something deep within the soul.

To experience this epic landscape with Royal Caribbean International is to pair raw, untamed adventure with refined, effortless comfort. It’s a combination that unlocks the very best of this destination, removing the logistical complexities of overland travel while delivering you to the doorstep of bucket-list wonders. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s a grand voyage that promises to change the way you see the world.

As you immerse yourself in this review, I invite you to explore potential sailings and visualize your own adventure. You can easily check dates, staterooms, and pricing using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. The dream is closer than you think.

The Unmatched Allure: Why an African Cruise is the Ultimate Adventure

Africa is vast, complex, and endlessly captivating. Planning a multi-country trip here can be a daunting task, involving countless flights, hotel changes, and ground transfers. A cruise elegantly solves this. Imagine unpacking just once, settling into your floating luxury hotel as the entire continent unfolds before you. Each morning, you wake to a new, breathtaking vista, whether it’s the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain or the ethereal haze over the Namib Desert dunes.

The true genius of this travel style lies in the juxtaposition of your days. One day, you might be on a thrilling 4x4 safari, tracking the legendary "Big Five" in their natural habitat, feeling the primal energy of the bush. The next, you’re back on board, sipping a perfectly chilled Sauvignon Blanc in the adults-only Solarium, sharing stories with fellow travelers as the ship glides silently through the Atlantic. It’s the perfect blend of high adventure and sophisticated relaxation—a rhythm that allows you to fully absorb the intensity of your shore excursions without ever feeling overwhelmed.

Your Vessel on the Voyage: The Brilliance of Serenade of the Seas

For its African itineraries, Royal Caribbean often deploys a ship perfectly suited for scenic, destination-focused cruising: the Serenade of the Seas. As a Radiance-class ship, her design is a masterclass in connecting guests with the sea and the scenery. With more glass than almost any other ship afloat, from the soaring, nine-story central atrium to the floor-to-ceiling windows in the public lounges, you are never disconnected from the majestic landscapes you’ve traveled so far to see.

This isn't a mega-ship focused on theme-park thrills; it's an elegant, mid-sized vessel designed for discerning travelers who appreciate comfort, quality, and breathtaking views. Have a specific question about the ship's layout or which stateroom offers the best views? Our team is ready to help. Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower-right corner for an instant response.

Refined Dining for the Adventurous Palate

After a day of exploration, culinary rejuvenation is paramount. Serenade of the Seas delivers with a host of dining options:

• Main Dining Room: A multi-course affair each evening with a rotating menu of international classics and chef’s specialties, served with Royal Caribbean’s signature attentive service.
• Windjammer Café: A casual, buffet-style restaurant perfect for a quick breakfast before a shore excursion or a relaxed lunch with panoramic ocean views.
• Chops Grille: The line’s signature steakhouse, offering premium cuts of beef and succulent seafood in an upscale, intimate setting. A perfect choice for a celebratory dinner.
• Giovanni's Table: A rustic, family-style Italian trattoria serving timeless dishes like homemade pasta and braised meat Cacciatore.
• Park Café: Located in the stunning Solarium, this is the spot for light bites, gourmet sandwiches, and fresh salads.

Entertainment and Relaxation at Sea

Your days at sea are a vital part of the journey, offering time to relax, recharge, and simply enjoy the ship. The adults-only Solarium, with its retractable glass roof and serene pool, is an oasis of calm. The Vitality Spa offers a full menu of treatments, from deep-tissue massages to rejuvenating facials. In the evenings, the Tropical Theatre comes alive with Broadway-style productions, while live music fills the various lounges and bars. For those seeking a bit of a challenge, the signature rock-climbing wall offers unparalleled views from 200 feet above the ocean.

The Unforgettable Itinerary: A Port-by-Port Journey of a Lifetime

While itineraries can vary, a classic South African and Namibian sailing offers a spectacular taste of the region’s diversity. Here’s a look at what this incredible voyage entails.

Cape Town, South Africa: The Mother City's Embrace

Your journey begins and ends in one of the most beautiful cities on Earth. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the colossal Table Mountain, Cape Town is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. An overnight stay here is essential. Ascend to the top of Table Mountain via the cable car for 360-degree views that will leave you breathless. Explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, delve into the poignant history of Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, or indulge in world-class food and shopping at the V&A Waterfront. A day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample exquisite Pinotage and Chenin Blanc is an absolute must for any oenophile.

At Sea: The Atlantic Passage

Your first full day at sea is a chance to settle in and embrace the rhythm of cruise life. Attend an enrichment lecture about the history and wildlife of Namibia, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply find a quiet lounge chair and watch the endless horizon. This is the perfect time to plan your shore excursions in detail. Feeling the pull of Africa already? Let us craft a personalized itinerary just for you. Plan Your Africa Adventure today by requesting a no-obligation quote.

Walvis Bay, Namibia: Where Desert Meets Ocean

The approach to Walvis Bay is otherworldly. The towering, apricot-hued dunes of the Namib Desert—the oldest desert in the world—plunge directly into the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Atlantic. The port itself is a haven for marine life; a catamaran tour of the bay will bring you face-to-face with curious seals, playful dolphins, and flocks of pelicans and flamingos. The true adventure, however, lies in the desert. A thrilling 4x4 excursion across the dunes, including the famous Dune 7, offers a sense of scale and solitude that is simply humbling.

Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa: Gateway to the Giants

This friendly city is your gateway to one of South Africa’s greatest treasures: Addo Elephant National Park. Originally established to protect the last 11 remaining elephants in the area, the park is now a thriving conservation success story, home to over 600 elephants, as well as lions, buffalo, black rhinos, and the unique flightless dung beetle. A full-day safari here is an experience you will never forget—the sight of a breeding herd of elephants, with tiny calves tucked protectively amongst them, is a moment of pure, unadulterated magic.

Mossel Bay, South Africa: History and High Adrenaline

A tender port with a rich history, Mossel Bay is where the first European explorers landed in South Africa. You can visit the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex and see the famous Post Office Tree. For the thrill-seekers, this is one of the world’s premier spots for shark cage diving, offering a heart-pounding opportunity to safely encounter the majestic Great White Shark in its natural environment.

Who is This Cruise Perfect For?

A Royal Caribbean cruise to Africa appeals to a wide range of sophisticated travelers:

• The Seasoned Globetrotter: For those who have seen much of the world, Africa represents one of the final, most rewarding frontiers. The comfort and ease of a cruise make exploring this challenging continent a true pleasure.
• The Wildlife Enthusiast: From the "Marine Big Five" in the Atlantic to the terrestrial "Big Five" at Addo, this itinerary is a dream for anyone passionate about the natural world.
• The Milestone Celebrator: Celebrating a significant anniversary, retirement, or birthday? There is no more memorable way to mark a special occasion than with a journey of this magnitude.
• The First-Timer to Africa: If you've always dreamed of an African safari but were intimidated by the planning, this is the perfect introduction. It offers a safe, curated, and incredibly comfortable way to experience the highlights.

Planning Your Dream African Voyage

A trip of this significance deserves expert planning to ensure every detail is seamless. That’s where our expertise becomes your greatest asset. We don’t just book cruises; we curate experiences. We can advise on the best time to travel (typically during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, from November to March), help you choose the perfect stateroom with a balcony to watch the sunrise over the ocean, and arrange pre- or post-cruise land packages, like a few nights at a luxury safari lodge or an extension to see Victoria Falls.

The first step to feeling the African sun on your face is getting the details right. Our experts can handle everything from flights to travel insurance, ensuring you can simply relax and anticipate the adventure ahead. Get a Custom Quote and let us show you the difference personalized service makes.

For those who prefer a direct conversation to map out the possibilities, our dedicated cruise specialists are on hand to answer every question. We've helped hundreds of travelers plan their dream African voyages and we'd be honored to help you. Give us a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for one-on-one guidance from a true expert.

This isn’t just another trip. It’s an investment in memories that will last a lifetime, a story you will tell for years to come. It’s the scent of the dry earth on safari, the taste of salt spray in Walvis Bay, the sight of a thousand stars in an unpolluted southern sky. Your once-in-a-lifetime journey is waiting. Inquire About This Sailing now and let our experts curate the perfect African cruise experience for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to take an African cruise?

The primary cruise season for South Africa and Namibia runs from late spring to early autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, typically from November through March. This period offers warm, pleasant weather, ideal for both on-deck relaxation and shore excursions.

What should I pack for an African cruise?

Packing should focus on layers. For shore excursions, lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khakis, greens, browns) is ideal for safaris. Include comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and strong sunscreen. For evenings on the ship, smart casual attire is appropriate, with a few more formal options for specialty dining or "formal nights." Don't forget binoculars for wildlife viewing and a good camera!

Are visas required for these ports of call?

Visa requirements vary based on your nationality. For many Western passport holders (e.g., USA, Canada, UK), tourist visas are not typically required for short stays in South Africa and Namibia when arriving by cruise ship. However, regulations can change. It is crucial to verify the specific requirements for your citizenship well in advance of your sailing. Our travel experts can assist you with this process.

Is a Royal Caribbean cruise a good way to see Africa?

Absolutely. It offers an unparalleled combination of safety, comfort, and convenience. You get to visit multiple diverse and sometimes remote locations without the stress of internal flights or constant packing and unpacking. It allows you to experience the wild, adventurous side of Africa by day and return to four-star comfort, dining, and entertainment by night.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The wildlife viewing opportunities are extraordinary. In the ocean, you have a high chance of seeing seals, dolphins, penguins, and various seabirds. On land, particularly at Addo Elephant National Park, you can look for the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo), along with zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and a vast array of antelope species.