Cruising has long ignited dreams of far-flung horizons and once-in-a-lifetime journeys for adventurous South African travellers. But in 2025, the direction of those dreams is evolving rapidly, and so too is the profile of the South African cruise passenger.
“While iconic routes to Alaska once dominated wish lists, barriers – like a whopping 470-day wait for a Canadian visitor visa – have all but closed the door for everyone except the most fastidious planners. Suddenly, we’re seeing an interest in different routes and itineraries, including Asia, Northern Europe, and Caribbean cruises,” says Nirosha Sidat, Norwegian Cruise Line Country Manager, Africa.
Research shows that the desire for at-sea holidays runs exceptionally deep amongst South Africans. As Sue Garrett, General Manager: Pricing, Supply, and Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa, notes, “Our latest FC Global PR survey revealed that nearly 70% of South Africans now find the idea of a cruise holiday appealing, significantly higher compared to all other countries surveyed.”
In this feature, we chart the new cruise frontiers captivating South African hearts and passports, revealing hidden gems and innovative itineraries that might just be the best cruise you’ve never considered.
Changing tides in South African cruise preferences
The post-pandemic cruise landscape tells a fascinating story of change. Once dominated by Baby Boomers and family groups, the market has shifted toward younger, more affluent travellers, drawn less by routine and more by the promise of flexibility and exceptional experiences.
“Since COVID, we’ve seen the average age of our South African guests drop dramatically,” shares Sidat. “Before, it was mostly a 45-plus crowd, now it’s closer to 35-plus. What’s more, today’s bookings are spearheaded by couples and groups of friends looking for something both novel and rewarding, rather than purely family holidays.” According to Sidat, families still feature, but increasingly it’s the high-net-worth segment seeking additional comfort and exclusivity that’s driving demand.
One striking trend: nearly 90% of South African NCL bookings are for balcony cabins or higher, with inside and ocean view cabins rarely seeing uptake. This, combined with an average booking value of around $6,000 for a balcony stateroom, marks South Africa as a discerning cruise market, clearly placing a premium on space and quality.
But luxury is just the beginning – it’s also about the substance of the experience. “Our guests are choosing NCL not simply for the destination, but for the experience on board,” Sidat explains. “They want high-quality food, top-tier entertainment, and that boutique hotel feeling at sea. For many, the cruise is as much about discovering new tastes, cultures, and comforts as it is about the ports themselves.”
Northern Europe cruises
With Alaska drifting out of reach, South African cruisers are finding themselves captivated by the quietly spectacular ports of Northern Europe.
Among the standout options is a 7-day voyage through Belgium, Germany, and England aboard Norwegian Sky, embarking from Copenhagen – gateway to the region’s famed maritime heritage. Stopping in Zeebrugge (for easy access to the chocolate-lined streets and canals of Bruges), the artsy energy of Amsterdam, and cosmopolitan London, this route offers a relaxed yet deeply enriching taste of Northern Europe’s heartland.
“Northern Europe offers a fascinating mix of history and contemporary culture. It’s the perfect antidote to those who’ve ‘done’ the Med,” says Sidat. The ease of a single Schengen visa covering multiple countries is another decisive plus, especially compared to more complicated North American itineraries.
Asia cruises
For well-travelled South Africans eager to rediscover a sense of awe, Asia’s cruise ports are fast becoming the ultimate playground.
Consider the Norwegian Jade’s 11-day exploration from Tokyo (Yokohama) to ports like Osaka, Sakaiminato, Hakodate, Kanazawa, and a detour to Seoul (Incheon), South Korea. Dining and discovery are at the heart of these journeys. Guests might find themselves cycling past samurai-era districts in Kanazawa, diving into night-time noodle stalls in Osaka, or joining in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The experiences feel personal and distinctly local – worlds away from the usual “big ship” cruise experience.
“We’re seeing more bookings for Asia. South Africans are discovering it combines the adventure of Alaska with a richness of culture and cuisine,” Sidat comments. “It’s a region that rewards curiosity, offering up a different kind of memory at every port,” she adds.
Asia’s growing prominence is further boosted by its accessibility and reputation for safety, as well as its welcoming ports and efficient infrastructure.
Caribbean cruises
While its turquoise seas and sun-soaked beaches have long drawn travellers from around the world, the Caribbean is getting a second look from South African cruisers, in particular. But the modern Caribbean cruise offers much more than the clichéd stretch of sand; it’s a living mosaic of cultures, cuisines, and untamed landscapes waiting to be explored anew.
Itineraries now dive well beyond the expected. In Costa Maya, Mexico, for instance, the “Aldea Mahahua, Mexico Through The Ages” excursion immerses guests in living Mayan traditions. Folkloric dance performances, authentic cuisine, tequila tastings, and even a shamanic cleansing ceremony redefine what it means to experience the Yucatán.
In Nassau, the “Invisible Boat Experience & Amazing Snorkel” brings marine conservation to the fore, whisking guests across glass-clear seas in a nearly transparent vessel, with unmatched views of paradise islands and thriving reef life – clownfish, angelfish, and parrotfish included.
With the addition of NCL’s exclusive private island, Great Stirrup Cay, now sporting new piers, activities, and easy access via tram, guests have even more reasons to stay and play.
The age of the intrepid cruiser
For experienced cruisers and first-timers alike, now is the perfect moment to look past yesterday’s favourites and consider the world of possibilities waiting just beyond the horizon. For those willing to embrace the unknown, the sea has never held more promise.
