Seabourn announces first-ever Grand Africa circumnavigation for 2024
Carnival Corporation’s ultra-luxury brand Seabourn has announced a 90-day Grand Voyage circumnavigation of Africa for 2024, with Seabourn Sojourn departing Barcelona, Spain on November 30th next year.
The 17,000 mile grand voyage, featuring 26 countries and six overnight stays, is the latest move by cruise line’s to capitalise on Africa’s growing appeal as a cruise destination. Holland America Line has been sailing annual circumnavigations of Africa since 2021.
During the 90-day cruise aboard Seabourn Sojourn, guests will have the opportunity to explore 44 marquee and off-the-beaten path ports and cities in 26 countries across every coastline of the African continent, from North Africa in the Mediterranean and East Africa on the Indian Ocean to the Southern African and West African shores.
Highlights include Alexandria, Cairo, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as well as the luscious, tropical islands of the Indian Ocean such as the Seychelles and Bom Bom Island. Seabourn will also offer shore excursions into the diverse landscapes of Kenya, Madagascar and Zanzibar; and culturally rich destinations such as Cape Town, Morocco and Mozambique.
Lesser-known gems such as Luanda, the “Paris” of Africa, in Angola, and Cape Verde, the “Gateway to the West” will also be featured prominently.
“Seabourn guests are accomplished, extraordinary people who are seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” said Natalya Leahy, President of Seabourn. “Our new Grand Africa Voyage is the result of our commitment to offering unforgettable ‘Seabourn Moments’ in some of the world’s most unique and exotic destinations.”
“This voyage is the perfect opportunity for our guests to discover Africa’s stunning natural wonders and diverse cultures, while enjoying the uncompromising luxury and intuitive, genuine service that can only be experienced on Seabourn,” she added.
Shore excursions offered during the Grand Voyage will include safaris, hikes, scuba diving, and snorkeling, as well as other enriching cultural experiences, such as a visit to a camel milk farm, botanical gardens, living archaeological museums, and historic and poignant landmarks that bear witness to the historic legacy of the continent.
Several optional multi-day Seabourn Journeys will also be available at various destinations, offering opportunities to explore certain sites and region in a more in-depth manner. Options include a gorilla sanctuary, the Victoria Falls and more.
Popular destinations on the Grand Africa Voyage:
Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt – Guests will get a glimpse into Egypt’s rich past and present while spending an evening in Cairo, Egypt’s second-largest city and epicenter of cultural and historical significance, offering a fascinating blend of ancient landmarks, stunning architecture, and vibrant markets. Guests will have the option to join an excursion to see the Pyramids at Giza.
Safaga (Luxor), Egypt – Located on the Egyptian side of the Red Sea, Safaga is the gateway to some of Egypt’s most memorable destinations: Luxor, Karnak and Thebes. Luxor has often been called the world’s greatest open-air museum, and the number and preservation of the monuments in the area are unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
Mombasa, Kenya – Guests can experience Kenya’s wildlife up close in Mombasa with overnight Seabourn Journeys, including Tsavo National Park Safaris, a Masai Mara National Reserve Safari and a Rwanda Gorilla Trek. Mombasa, a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, warm climate, rich history and delicious cuisine, has a blend of African, Arabic, and European cultures.
Cape Town, South Africa – Known as the “Mother City” of South Africa, Cape Town is a cosmopolitan metropolis of breathtaking natural beauty, with iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage that reflects its unique blend of African, European, and Asian influences. It’s also a hub for adventure tourism, offering a range of thrilling outdoor activities to enjoy, including catamaran sailing, kayaking and more.
Bom Bom Island, Sao Tome & Principe – Seabourn guests will enjoy a beach BBQ on Bom Bom Island, a hidden gem of natural beauty and tranquility. With its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear waters, visitors can expect a serene and unforgettable experience in one of Africa’s most enchanting destinations.
Casablanca, Morocco – Guests will spend an evening in Casablanca, the vibrant economic hub of Morocco. With its bustling souks, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, it offers visitors a unique and authentic taste of Moroccan life, steeped in history, culture, and tradition.
Guests who book the Grand Africa Voyage and pay in full by July 26th, 2023, will receive an additional 10% savings off the cruise-only fare.
The voyage includes a value-packed menu of complimentary benefits and amenities: Gala Bon Voyage dinner & overnight hotel stay at Hotel Majestic prior to departure in Barcelona An exclusive Grand Cruise event in Cape Town Special Grand Cruise pillow gifts Roundtrip business-class air US $2,000 Shipboard Credit per oceanview and veranda suite (US $1,000 shipboard credit per person US $3,000 Shipboard Credit per Penthouse and premium suite (US $1,500 shipboard credit per person) Private car transfers door-to-door between home and airport Personal Valet luggage shipping service between home and ship in Barcelona Unlimited laundry, dry cleaning and pressing on board Visa package (U.S. citizens only)
