Cape Town and Muscat Shine Among World's Most Stunning Cruise Ports, Boosting Regional Appeal

In a fresh global ranking spotlighting the world’s most visually captivating cruise ports, Cape Town in South Africa and Muscat in Oman have earned prestigious places among the top 20, underscoring their growing significance in the international cruise market. This recognition comes from a unique study by AllClear Travel Insurance, which employed advanced eye-tracking technology to measure how quickly and how long travellers’ gazes are drawn to port arrivals, offering an objective gauge of visual allure.

At the pinnacle of this list is Valletta Cruise Port in Malta, celebrated for its breathtaking approach through historic fortifications and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Following closely is Ushuaia in Argentina, famously known as ‘The End of the World,’ where cruise ships embark on Antarctic expeditions framed by the majestic Martial Mountains. The third spot belongs to Palermo in Sicily, Italy, where passengers are welcomed by vibrant streets, historic architecture, and shimmering sea vistas.

Cape Town’s Cruise Terminal secured a shared 12th place, alongside Montenegro’s Kotor, Norway’s Geiranger, and Portugal’s Funchal. The Mother City offers arriving passengers sweeping views of the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling V& A Waterfront, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Beyond its natural beauty, Cape Town has made significant investments in upgrading its terminal facilities, positioning itself as a vital turnaround hub for regional cruises along the South African coast as well as long-haul repositioning voyages connecting Europe with the southern hemisphere.

Muscat’s Port Sultan Qaboos earned a notable ninth place, reflecting its dramatic coastal setting where the rugged Al Hajar Mountains meet traditional souqs, mosques, and historic seaside forts. This port serves as a crucial gateway for Arabian Gulf itineraries and Indian Ocean cruises. Continuous investment in tourism infrastructure has strengthened Muscat’s role as a key stop on regional cruise routes, enhancing its appeal to international travellers.

European ports dominate the upper echelons of the ranking, with Stockholm enchanting visitors with its colourful, cottage-lined approach and Lisbon welcoming ships beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. Norway’s Geirangerfjord and Skolten Cruise Pier are famed for their dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys, offering some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the cruise world.

Outside Europe, tropical destinations like the Bahamas and Aruba captivate with pristine white-sand beaches and rich wildlife encounters. Meanwhile, Sydney’s world-renowned harbour views and Quebec City’s charming old-world atmosphere also feature prominently, highlighting the diversity of top cruise port experiences globally.

For Africa’s tourism sector, Cape Town’s inclusion among the world’s most beautiful cruise ports is a testament to the city’s strategic development and its rising profile as a premier cruise destination. The terminal’s integration with the V& A Waterfront, combined with the city’s natural landmarks, creates a compelling arrival experience that resonates with cruise passengers seeking both scenic beauty and vibrant urban culture.

Similarly, Muscat’s Port Sultan Qaboos exemplifies how investment in infrastructure and cultural heritage can elevate a port’s status on the international cruise circuit. Its unique blend of natural landscapes and rich traditions offers a distinctive experience that appeals to a growing segment of cruise travellers exploring the Arabian Peninsula and Indian Ocean regions.

This eye-tracking study not only highlights the aesthetic appeal of these ports but also signals their increasing importance in shaping cruise itineraries and marketing strategies worldwide. For African and Middle Eastern destinations, such recognition can translate into greater visibility, increased cruise calls, and enhanced economic benefits through tourism-related spending.

As cruise tourism continues to expand in Africa and the Middle East, ports like Cape Town and Muscat are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth. Their blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern facilities aligns with evolving traveller expectations, making them attractive hubs for both regional and international cruise lines.

Ultimately, the study underscores the value of investing in port infrastructure, passenger experience, and destination marketing to capture the attention—and hearts—of cruise travellers. For the African cruise industry, this is a clear signal to continue enhancing port offerings and leveraging the continent’s unique landscapes and cultures to secure a stronger foothold in the global cruise market.