West Africa Cruises
One of the least-cruised coasts on Earth, from Casablanca to the Namib.
Get West Africa QuotesAfrica’s Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic side of Africa is one of the least-cruised coasts in the world, which is exactly its appeal. Voyages here link Moroccan cities, Atlantic islands, the slave-trade history of Senegal and Ghana, and the desert coast of Namibia.
West Africa is usually sailed on longer voyages: repositioning sailings between Europe and Cape Town, world-cruise segments, and small-ship expedition voyages. For example, Swan Hellenic has announced West Africa voyages for autumn 2027, including an 11-night sailing from Luanda in Angola to Cape Town with calls in Namibia, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises has a Lisbon to Cape Town voyage in February 2027 with an overnight in Walvis Bay.
Ports Along the Coast
| Region | Ports often visited | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Morocco (Atlantic) | Casablanca, Agadir | The Hassan II Mosque, souks, and day trips toward Marrakech |
| Canary Islands (Spain) | Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote | Volcanic landscapes and an easy start or end point |
| Cape Verde | Mindelo, Praia | Creole music, volcanic islands and colorful towns |
| Senegal and The Gambia | Dakar, Banjul | Gorée Island, markets and river life |
| Ghana | Tema, Takoradi | Cape Coast and Elmina castles, Accra |
| Angola and Namibia | Luanda, Walvis Bay, Lüderitz | Desert coastlines, seal colonies and German colonial towns |
Morocco, Up Close
Morocco is the most visited African country on cruise itineraries, with calls on both its Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. From Casablanca, the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, is the headline sight, and tours run to Rabat or Marrakech. Agadir is a beach resort with access to the Souss valley and, on long tours, Marrakech. Smaller ships sometimes call at Essaouira, a whitewashed fishing town.
Moroccan calls are also common on Canary Islands and western Mediterranean cruises from Europe, which makes Morocco one of the easiest parts of Africa to add to a cruise.
What to Expect on a West Africa Voyage
- Expedition style: many ports have limited tourist infrastructure; small ships and expert guides make a big difference.
- Heat and humidity: coastal West Africa is hot year-round; light clothing, sun protection and insect repellent are essential.
- Health and paperwork: yellow fever certificates and visas are required by several countries; your line will advise, but you are responsible.
- History: sites linked to the Atlantic slave trade, such as Gorée Island and the castles of Ghana, are moving and important visits.
West Africa Questions
Are the Canary Islands part of Africa?
Geographically they lie off the coast of Morocco, but politically they are part of Spain. Many West Africa voyages start or end there.
Do West Africa cruises need special vaccinations?
Several West African countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination, and malaria is present in much of the region. Check the CDC destination pages for each country and see a travel clinic well before you sail.
Explore West Africa by Sea
Tell us which countries interest you and how long you can travel. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will look at West Africa voyages and send free quotes.
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