Cruising to Africa can be a dream come true for many travelers. However, the cost of a cruise to this continent can vary greatly depending on various factors such as the cruise line, itinerary, and season. In this article, we will explore how much it typically costs to go on a cruise to Africa.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Cruise to Africa
Before we delve into the costs of cruising to Africa, it’s important to understand the factors that determine the price of a cruise.
- Cruise Line: Different cruise lines offer varying prices for their African itineraries. Luxury cruise lines such as Crystal Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises tend to have higher prices than mainstream lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
- Itinerary: The ports of call and length of the itinerary can also affect the cost. Longer cruises that visit more exotic destinations tend to be pricier than shorter ones with more common ports.
- Season: High season (usually during summer) tends to be more expensive than low season (usually during winter) due to demand.
The Cost of Cruising to Africa
On average, a seven-day African cruise can cost anywhere from $1,500 up to $20,000 per person depending on the factors mentioned above.
If you’re looking for an affordable option, there are mainstream cruise lines that offer African itineraries at a lower price point. For example, Carnival Cruise Line offers a 14-day African adventure from $1,549 per person.
Luxury cruise lines like Crystal Cruises offer more expensive but comprehensive experiences. For instance, their 15-day South African Explorer itinerary starts at $7,299 per person and includes visits to exotic destinations such as Madagascar, Mozambique, and South Africa.
It’s worth noting that some cruise lines also offer pre- and post-cruise land tours that can add to the overall cost of the trip but provide a more immersive experience of the region.
Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from the cruise fare, there are additional costs to consider on a cruise to Africa. These include:
- Flights: Depending on where you depart from and where your cruise disembarks, airfare can be a significant expense.
- Excursions: Shore excursions are not usually included in the cruise fare and can add up quickly. African safaris, for example, can be quite expensive.
- Tips: Most cruise lines charge gratuities per person per day for various services provided on board.
The Bottom Line
African cruises can be an unforgettable experience but come at a cost. The price of a cruise varies depending on factors such as the cruise line, itinerary, and season.
Mainstream lines offer more affordable options while luxury lines provide comprehensive experiences at higher prices. It’s important to consider additional expenses such as airfare, shore excursions, and gratuities when planning for a cruise to Africa.