Cruise liner shore excursions
ABOUT our Cruise liner shore excursions
Embarking on a sailing adventure across the ocean is undoubtedly exhilarating; however, why not enhance your journey by exploring various excursions while docked at one of South Africa's harbors or ports?
Safari For Six operates from the Richards Bay Port, offering a diverse range of excursions into the heart of Zululand. This region is home to some of Africa's oldest natural wildlife parks, including the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (St. Lucia). Our shore excursions are meticulously designed to provide a personal experience of the area and its rich wildlife.
All tours include transfers from the Richards Bay Harbor in air-conditioned vehicles, accommodating a maximum of 12 passengers per vehicle. After a day filled with adventure, our transfer vehicle will return you safely to your ship within the time frame specified by the cruise line. We collaborate closely with the ship's itinerary, ensuring flexibility in adjusting daily plans to meet your schedule.
Big 5 Safari into Hluhluwe iMfolozi Wildlife Park
Once the traditional royal hunting grounds of King Shaka Zulu, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is deeply rooted in both natural and cultural history. Established as a protected area in 1895 (with Hluhluwe designated in 1897), the park was created to safeguard the last remaining wild, free-roaming animals in the region and has since become the largest natural habitat for the protected Southern White Rhino. Initially designed as two separate wildlife parks, they were later merged to expand the home range for the animals. The park is renowned for its population of the Big Five species, along with a healthy presence of African Wild Dogs and Cheetahs. All animals within the park exist freely and naturally, experiencing minimal human interference.
Safari tours to the park include the following:
- Transfer to and from Richards Bay Harbor
- Open aired Safari vehicles
- Meals and Refreshments
- Entrances Fees and conservation tariffs
- Tours are conducted in smaller groups of 6 people per open safari vehicle (unless otherwise requested)
iSimangaliso Wetland Park Tour
Experience the iSimangaliso Wetland Park through two distinct activities in a single day, offering the most immersive way to appreciate this remarkable destination. As South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso extends from South of St Lucia town to the border with Mozambique.
Embark on a small cruise boat to explore the park, where you can witness one of the largest populations of free-roaming hippos in Southern Africa. Furthermore, be enchanted by the remarkable birdlife, as this park is home to over 65% of the Southern African bird population.
(Depending on the cruise ship's itinerary, you will either embark on the hippo cruise first or proceed directly to the safari.)
The open safari vehicles will pick you up from the hippo cruise and transport you to the land section of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Here, you will encounter four of the Big Five and be captivated by the stunning landscape and natural beauty.
Isimangaliso Drive and Boat cruise include the following:
- Transfer to and from Richards Bay Harbor
- Open aired Safari vehicles
- Meals and Refreshments
- Hippo Boat cruise (smaller boat max 15)
- Entrances Fees and conservation tariffs
- Tours are conducted in smaller groups of 6 people per open safari vehicle (unless otherwise requested)
Authentic Zulu Culture Tour including Hippo Boat cruise
The Zulu nation is renowned for its profound patriotism and rich cultural heritage within Africa. Begin your day by visiting an authentic Zulu homestead, where you will gain insight into historical traditions as well as their evolution into the 21st century. Your knowledgeable local guide will captivate you with stories and customs while also introducing you to various youth programs she oversees. Your visit will contribute to the empowerment of young women, and donations towards her schoolgirl program are warmly welcomed.
Following the cultural tour, you will be transferred to the Hippo Cruise, where you can unwind and enjoy a light lunch aboard the boat while observing hippos and crocodiles along the St. Lucia Estuary. This scenic cruise lasts two hours and navigates through the world-famous St. Lucia Estuarine System, one of the largest estuarine systems in Africa.
Upon disembarking from the Hippo Cruise, time permitting, you may explore the charming town of St. Lucia and indulge in local shopping. This picturesque town serves as a vibrant tourism hub, offering a delightful experience.
Authentic Zulu Tour with Hippo cruise includes:
- Transfer to and from Richards Bay Harbor
- Authentic Zulu Tour
- Meals and Refreshments
- Hippo Boat cruise (smaller boat max 15)
Entrances Fees and conservation tariffs
All cruise ship excursions include transfers from the harbor in Richards Bay. A minimum deposit of 50% is required to secure your booking date. In the event that your ship does not dock in Richards Bay, we will provide a full refund of the amount paid, minus a 10% administrative fee. A cellular contact number is necessary to establish an active communication group for your booked activity. Group discounts are available upon request. Customized activities can be arranged for groups of more than four; please contact us directly with your requests.