What to Expect on a Local Cruise

01 December 2023

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Do you want to completely unwind? A cruise is possibly the most relaxing way to travel and the very best way to escape the 9 to 5 grind. If you love holidaying at resorts and enjoy having all your entertainment needs met in one convenient place, then a local MSC cruise is for you.

Whether you hop on board a cruise from Cape Town to Durban, cruise to the Portuguese Islands, or test your sea legs on a cruise to nowhere, here’s what to expect on a local cruise:

Local cruises from Durban and Cape Town head up and down the South African coast. Cruises from Durban to the Portuguese Islands offer incredible shore excursions at Inhaca Island. Swim with dolphins or snorkel a coral reef!
Choose to spend your days precisely as you please. Dive into a new book next to the pool, take part in a dance or yoga class, indulge in a lavish spa treatment or get active at the gym.
MSC cruises are also perfect for fun-filled family holidays. Kids under 18 cruise for free when sharing a cosy family cabin with two adults.
Every night on a cruise ship can be date night! Book the kids into the onboard entertainment programme or teen club and make the most of your well-deserved me-time. Sip sundowners on deck, dine out at a restaurant and then enjoy a live show and a few turns around the dance floor at the onboard nightclub.

Here are our top tips to ensure your local cruise holiday is plain sailing!

The best time of the year to cruise from Cape Town or cruise from Durban is during South Africa’s summer months when the water is milder.
Book more affordable cruise holiday packages for November to take advantage of great pre-December deals – the earlier you book in advance, the larger the discount!
Pack as lightly as possible and use a small carry-on bag as cruise cabins are not large and you won’t have to wait for your luggage to be delivered on the first day.
Most cruises are casual affairs and don’t require more than a few summer dresses for women and smart casual outfits for men.
It’s important to remember to pack swimwear, a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as you will be spending plenty of time in the sun.
If you suffer from motion sickness, make sure you take tablets with you as our local waters are rougher than those of the Mediterranean.
Arrive at the port early to avoid long queues.
Check out all the restaurants on board before selecting where you want to eat as you don’t want to overload on burgers when there is a full buffet around the corner.

Keen on a local cruise? We’re the cruise experts! Contact us today about setting sail on a local adventure.