A growing number of international cruise lines are calling at South African ports, driven by itinerary diversions and rising demand. For travel agents, this is opening up new, more accessible international cruising options that both depart from and return to home shores.
Despite this increase in international cruise itineraries and world cruise legs now departing from or arriving in South Africa, uptake remains limited. A recent Travel News poll found that only 24% of agents are seeing their clients take advantage of these locally accessible cruise options.
‘The world from your doorstep’
According to Theko Khalipa, Marketing Specialist at Cruises International, the lack of receptiveness from South Africans is due to a combination of factors, largely driven by a lack of awareness and hesitation around travel priced in foreign currencies.
“Many South Africans still associate international cruising with having to fly to Europe or the US to board a ship, making the idea of an international cruise starting or ending at a local port feel unfamiliar. This is compounded by limited awareness of available itineraries, as well as price sensitivity and hesitation around travel priced in foreign currencies,” said Khalipa.
Henuti Purshotam, a Cruise Specialist at Whitestar Cruise & Travel, notes that many South African clients are surprised to learn they can sail internationally from Cape Town, however once they learn of the easy access and value, interest grows quickly. She points out that these new itineraries are very accessible when agents factor in savings on flights, baggage and logistics.
“These itineraries offer agents a strong opportunity to reposition cruising for South African travellers. More African and regional cruises reduce the need for expensive long-haul flights while unlocking access to bucket-list destinations that are often complex or costly to arrange independently. With accommodation, meals and onboard entertainment included, agents can easily demonstrate clear value versus land-based holidays,” explains Khalipa.
He added that proactively positioning cruising as a compelling alternative and highlighting the cost efficiencies of itineraries that start or end in South Africa could significantly improve uptake.
Purshotam agreed, stating that agents played a critical role in presenting these cruises as new, exciting and accessible first options, rather than alternative sailings.
“As more international cruise lines include South Africa as part of their global deployment, it will take consistent trade education and storytelling to shift perceptions and build confidence in these sailings,” she said. “Positioning them as ‘The world from your doorstep’ is a powerful hook, and simple changes such as including SA-based cruise departures in opening conversations during client consultations can make a big difference.”
