Mozambique, with its expansive coastline packed with white sand beaches along the Indian Ocean, has been a favourite holiday destination with South Africans for decades. The crystal-clear waters, freely-flowing beers, friendly locals, and delicious food definitely have something to do with it.
Mozambique has a strong Portuguese influence because it was a colony of Portugal for over four centuries, from the early 16th century until 1975 when it gained independence. The food here is a showcase of Mozambique’s cultural melting pot. Don’t miss the chance to try peri-peri chicken or the seafood, which is among the freshest you'll ever taste.
Mozambique is not just about lounging on beautiful beaches – though you can certainly do that too, if you like. During their rule, the Portuguese left a lasting impact on Mozambique's culture, language, religion, and cuisine. Portuguese is the official language of Mozambique, a testament to this historical connection. The influence is also evident in the country's architecture, particularly in the capital, Maputo.
Cruises touching this part of the world allow you to explore untouched beaches and bustling cities alike. You could (literally) dive into Mozambique's rich marine life through snorkeling and diving excursions, or wander the colonial-style streets of Maputo, where architectural marvels like the Railway Station and art deco buildings share the same postcode as local markets selling clothes, food, and crafts. For something truly memorable, take a dhow safari to explore remote islands and learn about the local way of life.
- What destinations are featured in Mozambique cruises?
Cruises to Mozambique typically include visits to the white-sandy tropical beaches of Pomene on the shores of the Mozambique Channel and beautiful Portuguese Island to the south, as well as visits to Mozambique's capital Maputo and the nearby resort island of Ilha de Mocambique (Island of Mozambique).
- Can I expect snorkelling and diving opportunities?
Yes, snorkelling and diving in the clear waters of the beautiful coral reefs of Pomene and Portuguese Island are popular activities as both destinations are home to a variety of tropical fish, manta rays, and sea turtles.
- What types of ships are used for Mozambique cruises?
Larger entertainment-orientated ships such as the MSC Musica frequent Pomene and Portuguese Island. Luxury cruise lines such as Seabourn, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas cruises have multi-week itineraries that include visits to Mozambique's capital Maputo and several Indian Ocean islands.
- How can I experience local culture on my cruise?
Mozambican culture is a melting pot of Bantu, Swahili, Portuguese and Indian influences. The country's capital Maputo is a popular port of call for many cruises and is a great place to experience local cuisine, Portuguese architecture, a flourishing arts scene and some of the liveliest nightlife in southern Africa. If your cruise touches Pomene there are opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about their way of life.
- What wildlife can I see on a Mozambique cruise?
The coast of Mozambique has some of the healthiest coral ecosystems in the world that make for some spectacular diving sea adventures. Cruise stops in Pomene and Portuguese Island offer snorkelling encounters with an abundance of marine life around its coral reefs such as manta rays, garden eels and many species of tropical fish. Larger marine life throughout coastal Mozambique (that you won't have to dive underwater to see!) includes dugongs, turtles, dolphins and humpback whales. If time allows when you're ashore, don't miss the opportunity to go on an African safari to see exotic wildlife such as elephants, hippos, wildebeests, and zebras.
- Are these cruises family-friendly?
MSC cruises are the most family-friendly cruise line that regularly visits Mozambique. They offer indoor and outdoor play areas for kids, children's pools, and separate kids and teens clubs.
- What's included in a Mozambique cruise package?
What's included in your cruise package will very much depend on the type of cruise and your cruise itinerary. MSC cruises from Durban to either Portuguese Island and Pomene return include all onboard meals, entertainment and gratuities.
- What should I pack?
Mozambique has a warm climate and a Caribbean vibe. Essential clothing includes; short sleeve t-shirts, shorts, skirts, swimwear, sunhat, reef shoes (for beach areas where there's coral) and comfortable walking shoes for excursions. Essential documents you may need in Madagascar include your passport/I.D, insurance documents, copies of prescriptions, and local currency
- Do I need a visa for Mozambique?
Tourists to Mozambique who hold passports from a number of nearby countries such as South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Mauritius can enter visa-free for up to 30-days. Visitors from all other countries will require a tourist Visa that you can obtain by contacting Mozambiquan embassy or high commission.
- How do I book a Mozambique cruise?
You have 2 options. You can simply navigate to our 'Book Now' section, select your desired cruise, and follow the on-screen instructions. If you prefer to contact one of our knowledge consultants to book you can click enquiry or call on the product that interests you and if you need assistance, our customer service is here to help.