Africa’s coastline is one of the most diverse on Earth—where desert meets sea, rainforests blend into golden shores, and vibrant cultures redefine the meaning of adventure. For travelers wondering which cruises cover Africa coastal regions Royal Caribbean, the exciting answer is that Royal Caribbean includes Africa within several repositioning and transcontinental journeys. These voyages give guests a chance to explore extraordinary ports spread across North, East, and Southern Africa, all while enjoying the unmatched comfort and world-class amenities onboard.
Royal Caribbean’s itineraries touching Africa are not typical short cruises—they are epic, stretch-of-the-world journeys designed for curious travelers who long for authentic cultural depth, changing landscapes, and a rare selection of ports that remain untouched by mass tourism. Whether you dream of crossing the Indian Ocean, passing the Suez Canal, or sailing past rugged Atlantic coastlines, these itineraries are crafted for true explorers.
In this guide, you’ll discover the complete routes, highlighted ports, ships, and travel experiences included when choosing African coastal Royal Caribbean adventures.
Africa is not a region covered by typical round-trip itineraries. Instead, Royal Caribbean includes African ports in special repositioning cruises, Grand Voyages, and seasonal transits that connect continents. This means every stop feels exclusive—something not found on mainstream Caribbean or Mediterranean cruises.
Africa's coastlines offer vast contrasts—from the modern skylines of Morocco and South Africa to the ancient cultures along the Red Sea and East Africa. These regions appeal to travelers seeking:
Untouched natural beauty
Warm, welcoming cultural traditions
Unique wildlife experiences
Historic cities and UNESCO-listed sites
Dramatic geological contrasts
These are not short vacations. Royal Caribbean’s Africa-inclusive trips stretch 12 to 20+ nights, providing generous time at sea, long port stops, and multi-continental exploration.
While Royal Caribbean typically stations its largest ships in the Caribbean or Europe, the Africa-touching itineraries often feature:
Odyssey of the Seas
Jewel of the Seas
Serenade of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
These ships are selected for versatility, long-distance capability, and immersive onboard experiences.
Below are the primary routes that include African coastal destinations. These are regularly scheduled types of itineraries where African ports appear year after year.
1. Suez Canal & Middle East to Africa Routes
These itineraries connect the Mediterranean with the Indian Ocean through the iconic Suez Canal. Many of these voyages continue downward along East Africa.
Port Said or Alexandria, Egypt
Safaga, Egypt
Aqaba, Jordan (gateway to the Red Sea routes that lead toward Africa)
Mombasa, Kenya
Zanzibar, Tanzania
This sailing blends ancient civilization with coastal beauty. Guests move seamlessly from temples to coral-drenched beaches, experiencing both history and nature in a single voyage.
Visiting the Great Pyramids from Egyptian ports
Exploring Red Sea coral gardens
Walking Stone Town’s alleys in Zanzibar
Wildlife safaris accessible from Kenyan ports
2. Transatlantic & Repositioning Cruises Covering West Africa
Some Royal Caribbean transatlantic voyages include stops along the northwest or western African coast, especially when ships relocate between Europe and the Americas.
Casablanca, Morocco
Tenerife and the Canary Islands (geographically African region)
Cape Verde (depending on routing)
They combine the thrill of many sea days with rare access to Western Africa’s vibrant markets, Moorish architecture, and volcanic islands.
Moroccan culture, food, and souks
Volcanic hikes in the Canary Islands
Warm coastal breezes during long sea days
3. Grand Voyages Featuring Southern Africa
These longer itineraries stretch into South Africa, offering travelers a deeper look at the country’s multicultural coastal cities.
Cape Town, South Africa
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Durban
South Africa is filled with natural icons—Table Mountain, wildlife reserves, coastal cliffs, vineyards, and fusion cuisines. Royal Caribbean’s arrival here is a treasure for adventure-seekers.
Penguin colonies on Boulders Beach
Wine country excursions
Big Five wildlife safaris
Zulu cultural performances
Below is a deeper dive into the most iconic African ports included in Royal Caribbean itineraries.
Morocco: Gateway to North Africa
Morocco blends desert mystique with modern vitality. It is one of the most consistent African destinations in Royal Caribbean’s repositioning cruises.
A port beloved for:
Art deco architecture
Iconic mosques
Seaside promenades
Spices, textiles, and lively markets
Travelers love its:
Cliffside Mediterranean views
Winding medina streets
Mix of European and Moroccan culture
Egypt is central to many routes through the Suez Canal.
An entryway to treasures such as:
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Ancient fortresses
Coastal citadels
A serene gateway to:
Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
Snorkeling in the Red Sea
Desert landscapes and quiet beaches
Royal Caribbean’s voyages touching East Africa deliver authentic coastal living and historic depth.
A favorite for:
Old Town’s Swahili architecture
Fort Jesus
Beach safaris and coral reefs
This port is a magical blend of:
Spice plantations
Stone Town heritage
Turquoise beaches
Cultural fusion of Africa, Arabia, and India
Royal Caribbean’s longer repositioning routes often include Southern Africa.
Travelers can enjoy:
Table Mountain
Penguin beaches
Cape Winelands
Vibrant food culture
A peaceful yet culturally rich city known for:
Marine wildlife
Long beaches
Coastal nature reserves
This warm coastal hub offers:
Indian-influenced cuisine
Golden beaches
Cultural fusion
Marine parks
Royal Caribbean cruises that include African coastal regions are not typical holiday cruises—they are designed for travelers who seek:
Slow Travel with Global Perspective
With longer days at sea, you gain time to unwind, learn, and connect with global travelers.
Cultural Immersion
Africa’s ports offer genuine cultural exchanges rather than commercialized experiences.
Wildlife & Nature
Safaris, coral reefs, volcanic formations, and deserts—all in one trip.
Diverse Itinerary Flow
These cruises often combine Europe, Asia, and Africa, making them multi-continent journeys.
Book Early—These Routes Are Rare
Africa ports appear only in limited Grand Voyages or ship relocation seasons.
Check Seasonal Ship Repositioning
Many Africa-touching routes sail during:
Spring relocations (India/Asia to Europe)
Fall relocations (Europe to Asia, Australia, or the Middle East)
Choose an Oceanview or Balcony
Africa's coastline is simply too beautiful to miss.
Look for Extended Port Days
Many African ports offer late departures, giving you more exploration time.
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring ports filled with story-rich cultures, golden deserts, spice markets, coral lagoons, and wildlife sanctuaries, then Royal Caribbean’s Africa-inclusive itineraries are absolutely worth it. These cruises offer a rare chance to experience a continent that remains authentic, wild, and breathtakingly diverse.
For travelers who ask Which cruises cover Africa coastal regions Royal Caribbean?, the answer lies in these exceptional repositioning voyages—routes that truly celebrate global discovery.
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