Day 1- Cape Town
It’s difficult to get lost in Cape Town because gorgeous Table Mountain looms above the city as a reference. For breathtaking views, ride the cable car to the top, or explore this urbane city on foot. Visit the fascinating South African Museum and Planetarium and the culturally significant St. George’s Cathedral.
Shore excursions on the first and last day of a cruise are only available for guests who are combining back-to-back voyages to create a longer cruise. Those guests may organize custom tours through the Destination Services Desk on board.
Day 2- Mossel Bay
With an average of 320 sunny days a year, Mossel Bay has the second mildest climate in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Enjoy walks along the beautiful beaches, horseback riding and whale and dolphin watching. Track big game on a thrilling safari or take a cruise to Seal Island, populated by over 2,500 Cape fur seals.
Day 3- Port Elizabeth
South Africa’s third largest port, Port Elizabeth is known as “The Friendly City.” A popular destination for water sports, Port Elizabeth offers spectacular beaches, historical attractions, the oldest bowling green in South Africa and beautiful wildlife sanctuaries. Bayworld features a fascinating cultural history museum, an oceanarium and a snake and dinosaur park.
Day 4- At Sea
Day 5- Maputo, Mozambique
Intent on recapturing its former glamour, Maputo once again attracts the rich and famous, whom you may see while sipping a cocktail at the extravagant Hotel Polana. Maputo’s struggle for freedom from Portuguese colonialism is recounted in local museums.
Day 6 & 7- At Sea
Day 8- Nosy Be, Madagascar
Lying off the northern coast of Madagascar, Nosy Be (which means “Big Island” in Malagasy) contains seven volcanic lakes and is blanketed with fragrant flora such as ylang-ylang, frangipani and vanilla. Unusual wildlife flourishes here, as witnessed in Lokobe Nature Reserve, home to maki lemurs, chameleons and paradise flycatchers.
Day 9- Mayotte, French Comoros
While the other islands of the fragrant Comoros (known as the “Perfume Islands”) gained independence from France in 1975, Mayotte remained under French rule, and you’ll welcome the influence. The Petit Terre district boasts fine patisseries, boutiques and art galleries, and there’s a French flair everywhere.
Day 10- At Sea
Day 11 & 12- Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Although extraordinarily effervescent, Dar es Salaam means “Haven of Peace” in Arabic, a reference to its humble beginnings as a fishing village. For a break from the bustle, unwind in the botanical gardens. For a glimpse of traditional Tanzanian life, visit Makumbusho Village Museum.
Day 13- At Sea
Day 14- Antsiranana, Madagascar
Blessed with stunning natural beauty, Antsiranana boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic landscapes that include towering cliffs and lush rainforests. The city’s vibrant culture is influenced by its diverse population, with Malagasy, Creole, and French traditions blending seamlessly.
Day 15- At Sea
Day 16- Mahe, Seychelles
Gorgeous and romantic, the Seychelles define tropical beauty. A mountain range runs through the spine of Mahé, the largest island, and scenic national parks have sprung up around it, attracting hikers. Still, it’s the idyllic beaches that have immortalized Mahé and its laid-back capital of Victoria, where the Seychellois speak a mellifluous Creole patois.
Day 17-19- At Sea
Day 20 & 21- Male, Maldives
As the capital of the low-lying, coral-bed Maldives, winsome Malé is surrounded by a sea wall, where you might watch the fishing dhonis return with the day’s catch. Also be sure to see Friday Mosque, a masterpiece of filigree-curved coral built in the mid-1600s, and the Mulee-aage Palace.
Day 22- At Sea
Day 23- Colombo, Sri Lanka
Dotted with stately colonial buildings, Sri Lanka’s largest city is quite beautiful and wonderfully frenetic. Explore the museums and temples or watch cricket at Galle Face Green. If the thrilling energy of the city becomes too much, relax under a cinnamon tree in serene Viharamahadevi Park.
Day 24- Hambantota, Sri Lanka
Off the beaten path on the southern edge of Sri Lanka, Hambantota reveals verdant beauty, ample culture and incredible biodiversity. It’s a gateway to several stunning national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Yala National Park is a top choice for its sheer variety of wildlife – you might spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears and more. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle is also accessible from Hambantota – the 18th-century walled Old Town features charming Dutch architecture and possesses a beguiling, exotic ambiance that enchants travelers. Mirijjawila Botanical Garden, located in the dry zone, features a dazzling spectrum of rare and endemic plant species.
Day 25 & 26- At Sea
Day 27- Phuket, Thailand
Experience the many aspects of beautiful Phuket, from its lush landscape and gorgeous beaches to its 19th century Chinese and Western architecture and stunning temples. Visit the fascinating Sea Shell Museum, see the ornate Wat Chalong, watch elephants go through their paces at the elephant camp, and explore the unique and breathtaking Phang Nga National Park. Or just play on one of the island’s fabulous beaches.
Day 28- Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is the main island in the archipelago of the same name in the Andaman Sea. Stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife will surround you as you snorkel, horseback ride, hike, golf or simply relax on the powdery sands of the island beaches. Experience Langkawi’s wildlife up close on a boat tour of the amazing mangrove forest. Travel by cable car over ancient rainforests to the top of Mount Machincang.
Day 29- Penang, Malaysia
Visit a batik factory, a butterfly farm, a mosque, church and Indian temple, or just laze around on the beach. Hike the rainforest and waterfall-clad mountains that form the backdrop to the beautiful sandy beaches on the island known as “The Pearl of the Orient.” The capital of the island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique culture and architecture.
Day 30- Melaka, Malaysia
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, blending influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European civilizations. Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where colonial-era buildings stand alongside traditional Peranakan shophouses adorned with vibrant colors and intricate carvings.
Day 31-Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia
Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its diversity of cultures, from the soaring Petronas Towers and the royal palace to Gothic churches, colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house in a lovely heritage center. Experience everyday life as you browse the bustling markets and shops. Shopping: Shop for crafts, fine pewter, jewelry and batik.
Day 32- Singapore
Discover a delightful city of contrasts, from its old Chinese quarter and colorful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers, famous Tiger Balm Gardens and magnificent National Orchid Garden. Stroll along the Esplanade. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River and a tri-shaw ride through town. Visit the Kranji Memorial and Changi Chapel and Memorial, dedicated to those who lost their lives here during World War II.
