Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is making a grand return to southern African waters in November 2024, this time doubling down on the region’s potential by deploying two ships: Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky.
- The variety of cruise offerings promises something for everyone, from seasoned cruisers to first-timers.
- But what makes this expansion particularly appealing is its convenience for South Africans.
- For Norwegian Sky, it will mark her maiden voyage in South Africa.
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For the third consecutive year, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) returns to South African waters, offering local travellers a cruising experience in a class of its own. This season promises award-winning dining, world-class entertainment, and exceptional service, all designed to deliver a truly unique onboard journey.
Kevin Bubolz, Vice President and Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at NCL, expressed excitement about the expansion, noting that the itineraries will offer travellers a unique way to experience southern Africa.
NCL has numerous itineraries spanning 11 to 21 days, with departures from either Cape Town, South Africa, or Port Louis, Mauritius, from November 2024 to May 2025.
// Vice President and Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at NCL, Kevin Bubolz
With departures from Cape Town, travellers can avoid the hassle of long-haul flights, making these cruises a more cost-effective and time-efficient way to see multiple destinations.
Travellers have the chance to explore more of southern Africa, combined with a beach holiday in Mauritius, which remains South Africans’ top international travel destination.
// Vice President and Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at NCL, Kevin Bubolz
Whether you choose to relax on the pristine beaches of Mauritius after your cruise or begin your vacation there and sail back to Cape Town, the itineraries offer unparalleled flexibility. Along the way, guests can visit beautiful ports in Reunion, Madagascar, Mozambique, and along the South African coastline.
NCL’s expanded presence in the region is well-timed, aligning perfectly with Cape Town’s increasing efforts to establish itself as a premier global cruise destination. The city has experienced a surge in cruise tourism over recent years, a trend that is expected to continue as infrastructure improves and promotion efforts ramp up. Travis Stedman, Business Development Manager for Cruise Cape Town, highlighted the city’s growth in this area.
The 2022/2023 cruise season saw 70 ships docking at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal, bringing in approximately 145,000 passengers and 42,000 crew members.
// Business Development Manager for Cruise Cape Town, Travis Stedman
These impressive numbers reflect the city’s growing appeal as a key destination for international cruise liners, with more vessels than ever before choosing Cape Town as a port of call. While the full economic impact of the 2023/2024 season is yet to be revealed, the upward trajectory is clear. Cape Town is quickly becoming a cruise hub, attracting tourists from across the globe with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and strategic location.
Cape Town’s ambitions for cruise tourism are being driven by the “Cruise Cape Town” initiative, led by Wesgro, the Western Cape’s official tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency, along with other key stakeholders. The initiative aims to position the city and the broader Western Cape as a premier cruise destination by focusing on sustainable growth, economic development, and global competitiveness.
Travis outlined several key goals for the initiative, including increasing the number of cruise ship visits and boosting passenger arrivals. These efforts are designed not only to stimulate the local economy but also to create jobs and increase the overall contribution of cruise tourism to South Africa’s GDP. But achieving these ambitious targets will require more than just increased promotion.
Crucial action that needs to be taken includes infrastructure development, streamlining immigration processes, and enhancing regional promotion efforts.
// Business Development Manager for Cruise Cape Town, Travis Stedman
By improving these areas, Cape Town hopes to attract even more cruise liners and make the cruise experience as smooth and welcoming as possible for passengers. The return of Norwegian Cruise Line, coupled with the efforts of Cruise Cape Town, promises to make the 2024-2025 cruise season an exciting one for travellers. The combination of NCL’s diverse itineraries and Cape Town’s growing reputation as a cruise destination means that travellers can look forward to unique experiences both at sea and on land.
For those interested in booking a trip, NCL’s African itineraries can be explored and booked online. With cruises ranging from 11 to 21 days, passengers will have the opportunity to explore everything from the vibrant cityscapes of Cape Town to the serene beaches of Mauritius, all while stopping at stunning ports along the way.
As southern Africa’s popularity as a cruise destination continues to rise, Norwegian Cruise Line’s expanded offerings for the 2024/2025 season represent a major step forward in the region’s tourism industry. The dual deployment of Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sky opens up exciting possibilities for both local travellers and international visitors looking for an elevated cruise experience that explores the beauty of Africa from a new perspective.
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