Cape Town gears up for Cruise season with the arrival of the Vasco Da Gama

Cruise Liner, Cape Town
Photo credit: James Vos

Cape Town, the vibrant coastal jewel of South Africa, gears up for an extraordinary cruise season in 2023/24. Cruise Cape Town, powered by Wesgro, pulled out all the stops to make that season one for the books, and it all began with the inaugural arrival of the magnificent Vasco Da Gama, which docked in Cape Town on 2 November 2023.

From November 2023 to May 2024, Cape Town’s bustling harbour will be abuzz with a total of 49 ship visits, and 30 of these will be turnaround calls, a thrilling experience where existing passengers disembark and new ones come aboard, all on the same day.

Furthermore, the 2023/24 season will witness the arrival of eight ships that will be gracing the Port of Cape Town for the very first time. These newcomers include the Coral Geographer, Silver Spirit, Swan Hellenic Diana, Ambience, MSC Splendida, MSC Poesia, Norwegian Dawn, and the star of the show, the Vasco Da Gama.

The Vasco Da Gama’s arrival at the Port of Cape Town marks the official commencement of the 2023/24 cruise season. This stunning vessel embarks on its journey to the Mother City following a 24-day itinerary that began in Lisbon, Portugal. The ship will stay in port for two days before embarking on a 15-day adventure from Cape Town to Port Louis, docking at various scenic locations along the captivating South African coastline.

As the Vasco Da Gama casts its anchor in Cape Town, it symbolizes the start of a season filled with promise and adventure. Cruise enthusiasts and travellers alike can look forward to exploring the city’s vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its people. The 2023/24 cruise season promises an array of experiences that will leave passengers in awe.

Cruise Cape Town, in collaboration with Wesgro, has meticulously planned this season to ensure an unforgettable experience for all visitors. With 49 ships gracing the city’s harbour, there’s no shortage of choices for travellers seeking to embark on a remarkable journey. What makes this season truly special are the eight ships that will be making their maiden voyages to the Port of Cape Town. These ships bring fresh itineraries and unique perspectives to the cruise season, providing passengers with an opportunity to explore new horizons and create cherished memories.

Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history, is the perfect destination for cruise enthusiasts seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. The city’s vibrant food scene, bustling markets, and vibrant arts and culture offerings ensure that there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.

The 2023/24 cruise season in Cape Town promises to be an extraordinary adventure filled with discovery, excitement, and unparalleled beauty. With the arrival of the Vasco Da Gama and a line-up of new ships, Cape Town and the Western Cape are ready to welcome travellers from around the world to experience the magic of this extraordinary destination.
As the season unfolds, passengers can look forward to exploring the wonders of Cape Town and the Western Cape, creating lasting memories, and setting sail on a journey of a lifetime. Cape Town’s cruise season is officially underway, and the stage is set for a spectacular voyage that will be remembered for years to come.