Holland America Line West and South Africa: 35 nights from Cape Town with Volendam
Mar 22, 2027

Cape Town

In the heart of South Africa's breathtaking landscapes, there is a city shrouded in mystical aura and historical mysteries, and it’s Cape Town. This is a place where the grandeur of mountain peaks, endless beaches, and the turbulent ocean waters converge, create beauty and magic. Cape Town is graced by its iconic symbol – Table Mountain, which towers over the city like a guardian of ancient secrets and legends. Visitors can ascend this natural wonder to enjoy stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean coastline.

Cape Town is also renowned for its cultural diversity. It attracts artists, musicians, and writers from all parts of the world, inspiring them with its unique atmosphere. The streets of Cape Town are vibrant with local markets, street art, and cafes offering dishes from various parts of Africa and the world. An interesting fact about Cape Town is its unique geography. The city is located at the southernmost tip of the continent, where the Table Bay is one of the largest and deepest natural harbors in the world. This makes it an ideal departure point for cruises along the Atlantic Ocean.

Cruises from Cape Town offer exciting journeys along the shores of South Africa, including stops at historic sites like Robben Island, where political prisoners of the apartheid era, including Nelson Mandela, were imprisoned. If you're interested in the underwater world, you can visit the largest aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere. For photography enthusiasts, we recommend the Bo-Kaap district, where houses are painted in vibrant colors.

Cruises from Cape Town also provide the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of South Africa's Western Cape, encountering wildlife and national parks, majestic waterfalls and endless beaches along the way. Cape Town not only impresses with its beauty and cultural heritage but also serves as the perfect starting point for thrilling cruise adventures, allowing guests to discover all the grandeur and diversity of this remarkable part of Africa.

The mother city of South Africa occupies one of the most beautiful positions in the world, with an iconic mountain located right in its center. As beautiful as the beaches and surrounding vineyards, the harsh desert of Table Mountain is covered with a unique flora, which captures everyone's attention.

With 6.5 million international tourists, South Africa appears to be the first destination in Africa. The inhabitants of Cape Town are truly open to tourism, which began at the threshold of the 90s, at the end of apartheid. Thanks to a significant regional and European tourism development, in recent years, the nation has grown considerably. African visitors are distinguished from those from overseas, differentiated by the activities carried out and seasonal movements.

But everyone participates fully in the development of the tourism sector. For lovers of architecture, the city is also famous for its colonial style, called Cape Dutch, particularly evident in the Constantia districts. During your stay in this fabulous place, you can stroll through the main streets: starting from Piazza Heerengracht where the first camp of the East India Company was founded. A short distance away, shopping lovers can also enjoy and discover Adderley Street, the main shopping street.

Without forgetting Government Avenue, where passers-by will find themselves in a beautiful glazed walkway of ancient oaks. Here museums abound, such as the Museum of History and Culture, the oldest South African institute after the Castle of Good Hope, residence of the city's first governors in the second half of the 17th century.

Luderitz

Walvis Bay

Namibian Coastal Expeditions from Walvis Bay!

Set sail on an extraordinary cruise from Walvis Bay, Namibia, a unique coastal city nestled between the vast Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its abundant birdlife, seal colonies, and stunning desert landscapes, Walvis Bay offers an unparalleled departure point for exploring the dramatic coast of Namibia and beyond. Prepare for a journey filled with incredible wildlife, breathtaking natural beauty, and unforgettable discoveries in one of Africa's most captivating regions.

St Helena

St Helena

Banjul

Banjul, the capital of the Gambia, is a port city, peaceful African, exotic on the island of Santa Maria at the mouth of the Gambia River. Rich in history, Banjul has many colonial buildings and museums. The area around has wonderful and wide beaches on the edge of the tropical blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Boat trips on the Gambia River from Banjul are exciting. You will discover the fauna of the Gambia and its tradition.

The former center of the slave trade, founded by the British in 1816, is rich in many interesting monuments such as the State House in Banjul and the Banjul Court. At the entrance to Banjul is the Arch 22, an imposing monument 35 meters high, with a fantastic view of the city.
The African Heritage Museum has an excellent collection of African paintings and statues. There are also several beautiful mosques and two cathedrals. There are good shopping opportunities in the famous Albert market where you can experience the original African way of life, full of colors and scents with frequent African concerts.
The famous locations in Gambia are Fajara, Kololi, Kotu, and Bakau, all located near Banjul. These locations have a good selection of hotels and restaurants, and wide sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees offering good opportunities for water sports.
For those interested in flora and fauna, Abuko is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Gambia. Another popular tourist attraction is Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau. The beautiful Gambia River, over 1000 km long, and its banks are full of mangroves.
Banjul offers a pleasant tropical climate, a long dry season from November to May, and a rainy season from June to November.

 

Dakar

Explore West Africa from Dakar!

Set sail on an enriching journey from Dakar, Senegal, a vibrant and bustling port city on the West African coast. Known for its colorful markets, historical sites, and lively culture, Dakar offers a truly unique starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of Africa. Prepare for an adventure that combines cultural immersion with serene sea travel, promising profound discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

The city of Dakar is located along the Atlantic coast of Senegal, on an ancient volcano whose eruption gave rise to the Cap-Vert Peninsula. Other islands are located nearby, including that of Gorée, to the south, those of the Madeleine, to the west and Ngor to the north. An ancient fishing village, Dakar or Dahar means "tamarind" in Wolof (one of the six national languages of Senegal). Today the administrative, political, military, economic, social and cultural metropolis is a cosmopolitan, African and European city, with more than two million inhabitants. Several dates that mark the history of the city and the region, are between the 16th and 19th centuries, the highlight of the slave trade. The city was officially founded on May 25, 1857 by Pinet LAPRADE. The first cadastral map of Dakar was developed in June 1858. 4 years later, in June 1862, they formed a new alignment plan of the area. The city of Goree was founded in 1872 and on April 4, 1960, Dakar became the capital of Senegal. This metropolis has many places to offer. Tourists will be mainly attracted by the African Art Museum and the Antenna Gallery. Other important sites, in colonial style, are the Town Hall outside the Presidential Palace, jealously guarded by its guards in traditional clothes. Finally, don't miss the Dakar Mosque and the Hann natural park, with its numerous animals. Many typical products of the Dakar region are available to holidaymakers in various shops. Wide choice of souvenirs including fabrics, wooden sculptures, jewelry, sandals, bags, paintings, bronze objects, ceramics and musical instruments. Music, dance and traditional wrestling are part of the Dakar landscape. You will also notice the presence of a large shopping center (Plaza Mar), inaugurated in 2010, inside you will find a wellness center, a games room and a bowling alley. French is the official language and the only one taught in the public school system.

Praia

Praia is the capital of the Republic of Cape Verde, located on the island of Santiago, the largest of the archipelago, west of Senegal. The country is divided into charming little unofficial districts, the most important are Plateau (centre), Achada, Varzea, Safende and Sucupira (bazaar area). At the Sucupira market, you can buy exotic souvenirs, such as Panu or Babosa land, as well as a variety of handicrafts. Its great strength is the port, which, in addition to its development and the fishing industry, allows the export of coffee, sugar cane and tropical fruit. Thanks to its pleasent climate, It is possible to visit the city all year round. Even during the so-called rainy season (from mid-August to mid-October), it can happen that there is no rainfall for weeks. Thanks to ocean currents, Cape Verde has the lowest temperatures of all West African countries. Cape Verdeans are very fond of music, especially zouk, Funana and local HipHop. They are able to dance energetically throughout the night and one can easily join in. The city has several colonial-era buildings. The main attractions in the city center include Albuquerque Square, the old town hall built in 1920, the presidential palace, built at the end of the 19th century, the Monument of Diogo Gomes, the Portuguese navigator who discovered the island of Santiago in 1460. Apart from those mentioned, its beautiful beaches and good nightlife make this place an idyllic destination.

Praia is the capital of the Republic of Cape Verde, located on the island of Santiago, the largest in the archipelago, west of Senegal.
This country is divided into charming unofficial small districts, the most important of which are the Plateau (center), Achada, Varzea, Safende, and Sucupira (bazaar area).
At the Sucupira market, among local and culinary products, you can buy exotic souvenirs, such as the earth of Panu or that of Babosa, as well as a variety of handicrafts. Its great strength is the port, which, in addition to the development and fishing industry, allows the export of coffee, sugar cane, and tropical fruits.
In this locality, it is possible to think of visiting it at any time, although the climate is pleasant all year round. Even during the so-called rainy season (from mid-August to mid-October), it can happen that there is no precipitation for weeks. Thanks to the ocean currents, Cape Verde has the lowest temperatures of all the countries in West Africa.
The Cape Verdeans love music very much, in particular, the zouk, the Funana, and the local HipHop. They are able to dance with energy all night and you can easily join in.
The city has several colonial-era buildings. The main attractions in the city center include Albuquerque Square, the old town hall built in 1920, the presidential palace, built at the end of the 19th century, the Monument to Diogo Gomes, the Portuguese navigator who discovered the island of Santiago in 1460.
In addition to those named, it does not have any particular important places to visit, but it is thanks to the beautiful beaches and the beautiful nightlife that makes this place an idyllic destination.

Mindelo

Mindelo is a lively port city located on the island of São Vicente in Cape Verde, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. Cultural vibrancy, historical importance and natural beauty blend perfectly making Mindelo a unique and fascinating destination for tourists. The city is known as the cultural capital of Cape Verde.

It has a rich musical tradition, in particular morna and coladeira are the traditional musical genres of Cape Verde. The city is associated with the famous singer Cesária Évora. Cesária Évora was a Cape Verdean singer and probably the most famous morna singer in the world. Her nickname was “barefoot diva” because of her habit of performing barefoot. Mindelo hosts one of the most lively carnivals in the region, often compared to those in Brazil.

The event is a great attraction for tourists and locals, with parades, music, dances and elaborate costumes. Mindelo has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and markets where local artists and artisans exhibit their works. The Mindelo Art Center is a notable venue for unique exhibitions and shows. The city's nightlife is lively, with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs that offer live music and entertainment, especially in the historic center around Praça Estrela and Rua Lisboa.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife, is located in the north-east of the island. Its pleasent climate and commercial areas make the city the perfect place for walking and enjoying long hours of relaxation. There are lots of things to visit in the city such as its avenues, parks and Henry Moore's most famous sculptures, hidden treasures and historic buildings such as the Church of the Conception or the Carta Palace.

Do not miss the opportunity to taste local cuisine. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a beautiful port located in Tenerife, the largest of the western islands of the Canary Islands archipelago. In the area around the port, there are wide avenues, squares, exotic green areas and some examples of modern architecture. At the heart of the city, near the sea, there is Plaza de España, built in the mid-20th century and once the site of the San Cristobal Castle (16th century).

The oldest part of the city is rich in religious monuments. The construction of the Church of San Francisco, one of the best examples of the Baroque style, began in the 17th century. The Church of Pilar, dated back to the 18th century, stands on the remains of an ancient temple. The city has also some green areas filled with exotic tree species. The Garcia Sanabria Park houses an important outdoor Sculpture Museum.

Another not to be missed place is the Maritime Park, a recreational area designed by architect César Manrique and located in the old Canary Islands commercial basin. Also known as the Black Castle, this circular defensive bastion was built in the first half of the 17th century with volcanic stones. From a naturalistic point of view, Tenerife is an island of contrasting landscapes. The wide beaches of fine sand in the south of the island give way to lush vegetation in the north.

Every year, the outfits of the island's capital prepare to host Carnival, declared International Tourist Interest and one of the most spectacular in Spain. Its privileged location makes it possible to enjoy beautiful beaches such as Las Teresitas, get to know the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit Teide National Park, the symbol of the island.

Las Palmas

Located in the Atlantic Ocean 200 km from the African Coast, Gran Canaria has one of the most beautiful tropical landscapes. The island has wide and beautiful golden sand beaches, endless dunes, large indentations with vegetation and charming villages. In this majestic area, you can visit towns that has all kinds of services and amenities, such as in Las Palmas, with large shopping areas and a lively nightlife. You will have the opportunity to practice any water sport: diving, surfing and windsurfing.

Conversely, those who prefer other sports will have the opportunity to go hiking, climbing, or cycling. The island is also an ideal destination for golf lovers, as it has a wide range of excellent courses. Gran Canaria has excellent cuisine and the variety of fun traditional festivals, and theme parks. In short, it is an ideal place for a great island vacation.

Arrecife

The capital of Lanzarote Island, in Canary Island, Arrecife was originally a small fishing village that now primarily relies on tourism. Lanzarote is one of the most wild and natural islands of the Canary and is of volcanic origin. Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, since the second half of the 19th century, is now the administrative and commercial center of the island.

Arrecife is a lively and cosmopolitan city full of culture and history, located on the eastern-central coast of the island. Initially known as a small fishing village in the 15th century, the area continued to grow until it became the capital of the island in 1852. Today, it is known as a wonderful holiday and shopping paradise. The city presents itself to travelers as a peaceful, cheerful and clean town. In its harbor, which is an area of intense commercial activity, two large fortresses, San Gabriel and San Jose, stand as reminders of the constant pirate attacks.

Other interesting monuments include the Castle of San Gabriel, built offshore and connected to the city by drawbridge, the San Juan Castle, and the Castillo del Hambre. Inside the Castello del Hambre, there is the international Museum of Contemporary Art, which exhibits works by the great artist Cesar Manrique.

The center of Arrecife is surrounded by some of the city’s best tourist attractions, such as the Parish of San Ginés Obispo and the shopping district of Calle Real. Heading north along the Coast, you will find the city’s ports: Puerto Naos, a fishing port, and the main port called Puerto de los Marmoles, the third most important port in the Canary Islands.

Casablanca

Casablanca is the cosmopolitan, industrial and economic heart of Morocco and represents a developing Nation.

Casablanca is where money was made, where industry is, where art galleries show the best contemporary art and where stylists have a window on the world. The old pirate lair is projected into the future, showing its riches and successes. Casablanca is full of contradictions. It is home to suffocating traffic jams, social problems and slums, as well as wide avenues, well-kept public parks, fountains and a surprising colonial architecture. Rich Hispano-Moresque, Art Deco and modernist gems to be discovered in the city center are the modernist symbol of Casablanca, like the huge and incredibly ornate Hassan II Mosque.

Lisbon

Perched on steep slopes overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon offers all the pleasures you'd expect from Portugal's main attraction.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon (in Portuguese Lisboa) has experienced a great rebirth in recent years, with a lively and flourishing contemporary culture. Perched on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is one of the rare European cities that face the ocean and use water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travelers with its white limestone buildings, intimate alleys and an ancient charm that makes it a popular destination all year round.

Oporto

At the mouth of the Rio Douro, the hilly city of Porto presents a mix of styles, eras and attitudes: narrow medieval alleys, extravagant Baroque churches, small squares and wide avenues, flanked by stately buildings.

The heart of Oporto is the Ribeira district, an area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of winding alleys, zigzagging stairs and churches on every corner, village-style squares and old merchants' houses where Roman ruins are hidden under the foundations. In the last two decades Porto has undergone a remarkable rebirth – which is expressed in the buzz of its efficient metro system and the shimmering of some ambitious urban renewal projects. The crowning of the city's glories are the two latest masterpieces, Museu de Arte Contemporânea by Álvaro Siza Vieira and the 'Casa da Música, which have transformed the city into a place of pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts.
The Dom Luís I bridge an audacious iron arch, which crosses the Douro river, is impressive and not to be missed. It was built by the Belgian engineer Théophile Seyrig, for road traffic. Since 2003 the upper level has been used exclusively by the city's metro trams.

Bilbao

Bilbao, located on the Northern coast of Iberian Peninsula, is the ideal starting point to visit this area of Spain. Tourists come here to enjoy the beaches, discover its culture and absorb its mild climate. With one of Europe's largest ports, the vibrant city has been able to invest in a redevelopment plan, trasforming its brownfield sites into cutting-edge cultural and architectural venues.

But it is its historic center, which continues to fascinate with its stores, alleys and monuments. The city was officially founded in the 1300s, consolidating its economic position. Thanks to the exploitation of mining and steel industry areas, port and ship activity and its financial center, the city became one of the most important cities during the Industrial Revolution. 

A modern and transportation network connects Bilbao to other cities in Spain. Thanks to its beautiful beaches, the city is the ideal destination for beach lovers. Beaches are not the only attractions in Bilbao, there are very fascinating places besides the beautiful beaches: the Cathedral of Santiago, located in the heart of the Old Town (Casco Viejo) is dedicated to the apostle Santiago, the official patron saint of the city of Bilbao since 1643.

Built at the end of the 14th century in the Gothic style, the neo-Gothic tower and façade were made by Severino Achúcarro in late 1887. The Old Bridge of San Antonio is located next to the church of the same name. Pablo de Alzola and Ernesto Hoffmeyer built a second bridge in 1877 but it was destroyed during the Civil War in 1937. San Antonio Bridge dates from the early 20th century, also known as the Atxuri Bridge, connecting the old neighborhood to the rest of the city. For nature lovers, the city is surrounded by a fertile landscape of forests, mountains, beaches, and cliffs that make Bilbao a tourist destination. A holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and partecipate in one of these unique activities.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is city on the Atlantic Ocean and its port hosts big ships. The city had initially the name Burdigala and was established in III Century B.C. by the Gallic people.

It was a neuralgic centre for the International commerce of tin and lead. After the arrival of the Romans, Bordeaux becomes one of the richest cities of Gallia and is robbed many times by populations such as Visigoths and Vandals. With the passing of time, the City starts economic relationships with England trading in salt and wine and, in XVI Century, also the colonial sugar and slaves start having a leading role in the sustenance of the city.
Bordeaux has a liveable city centre that can be visited by foot and that offers beautiful attractions and energy. At night, the city get crowded with young people filling up the main squares and the bars where you can taste excellent wines and plunge in the romantic atmosphere that the city assumes after the sunset. You can’t miss out Château de la Brède, a gothic style castle dated back to XIV Century, surrounded by a moat and an English garden. The philosopher Montesquieu lived here and tourists can visit his library and his bedroom that are just like they were in XIX Century.
We suggest to visit also the beautiful Saint Eloi Church. Established in XII Century, the construction and renovation works lasted until 1400’s. The current structure is dated back to this period. The church is one of the stop-overs of Santiago de Compostela walking tour and is part of UNESCO World Heritage. Bordeaux offers a wide variety of gastronomic and wine choices. There are many restaurants and bars where you can taste the best wines on the market and an amazing cuisine.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is city on the Atlantic Ocean and its port hosts big ships. The city had initially the name Burdigala and was established in III Century B.C. by the Gallic people.

It was a neuralgic centre for the International commerce of tin and lead. After the arrival of the Romans, Bordeaux becomes one of the richest cities of Gallia and is robbed many times by populations such as Visigoths and Vandals. With the passing of time, the City starts economic relationships with England trading in salt and wine and, in XVI Century, also the colonial sugar and slaves start having a leading role in the sustenance of the city.
Bordeaux has a liveable city centre that can be visited by foot and that offers beautiful attractions and energy. At night, the city get crowded with young people filling up the main squares and the bars where you can taste excellent wines and plunge in the romantic atmosphere that the city assumes after the sunset. You can’t miss out Château de la Brède, a gothic style castle dated back to XIV Century, surrounded by a moat and an English garden. The philosopher Montesquieu lived here and tourists can visit his library and his bedroom that are just like they were in XIX Century.
We suggest to visit also the beautiful Saint Eloi Church. Established in XII Century, the construction and renovation works lasted until 1400’s. The current structure is dated back to this period. The church is one of the stop-overs of Santiago de Compostela walking tour and is part of UNESCO World Heritage. Bordeaux offers a wide variety of gastronomic and wine choices. There are many restaurants and bars where you can taste the best wines on the market and an amazing cuisine.

Cherbourg

Cross the Atlantic from Cherbourg!

Set sail on an epic ocean adventure from Cherbourg, France, a historic port city with a deep connection to maritime exploration. Known for its strategic location and impressive harbor, Cherbourg offers a grand departure point for transatlantic voyages and European cruises. Experience the allure of French coastal charm before embarking on a journey promising elegance, discovery, and breathtaking views of the open sea.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a booming energy, with an excellent nightlife, a multicultural community, a gritty arts scene and an offer of excellent museums.

Rotterdam, the Netherlands' 'second city', was heavily bombed during the Second World War and spent decades before reconstruction. You won't find the classic medieval Dutch architecture here – it was swept away along with the other debris and debris of war. In its place is an architectural aesthetic that is unique in Europe, a perpetually progressive approach to construction that is clearly a result of the city's post-war, postmodern philosophy. In fact, Rotterdam is known as a city of architecture. In the few square kilometers of the city center you have a complete overview of what the twentieth century produced in terms of modern architecture.