by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 1:35 PM ET, Fri July 12, 2024
Guests traveling aboard Seabourn’s 2024 Grand Africa Voyage will now have a chance to linger longer in destinations thanks to a newly announced selection of pre-, mid- and post-cruise ‘Seabourn Journeys.’
The Journeys, revealed today by the luxury small ship cruise operator, even allow cruise guests to stay on land overnight in various destinations.
A statement issued by Seabourn said the Journeys are meant to provide “in-depth, land-based cruise extensions that go beyond single-day excursions.”
For travelers interested in joining a safari to see Africa's "Big Five," for instance, there will be several mid-cruise Journeys that allow Seabourn guests to stay in unique properties and national parks in Botswana, Namibia and more.
Guests who enjoy indulging in exclusive wine experiences, meanwhile, can opt for gourmet dining and wine tastings at La Residence Wine Estate in Franschhoek during four-day pre- and post-cruise stays.
"Seabourn Journeys allow our guests to create deeper, more immersive experiences of the destinations by extending their travel beyond the first and final ports of calls," Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, said in a statement.
"I am very proud of this bespoke collection of offerings and believe our guests will be delighted with these experiences," she added. "Whether spotting the 'Big Five' on thrilling game drives, or relaxing in luxurious accommodations, or savoring award-winning wines, every moment is crafted to enhance the voyage and create unforgettable 'Seabourn Moments’."
Here’s a closer look at the new Seabourn Journeys available for the Grand Africa Voyage aboard Seabourn Sojourn.
Seabourn Sojourn. (photo via Seabourn Media)
La Residence Wine Experience
4-day pre- or post-cruise Journey,
Cape Town, South Africa | Pre: January 25-28, 2025 | Post: January 28-31, 2025
Guests sailing on shorter segments that either embark or debark in Cape Town on January 28, can enjoy a pre-cruise or post-cruise experience in South Africa's stunning Cape Winelands.
Upon arrival at Cape Town, guests are transported to La Residence in the Franschhoek Valley, where they can relax and dine at their leisure in opulent surroundings.
The second day features a tour of historic wine estates in Paarl and Boschendal, complete with tastings and a picturesque picnic.
On the third day, guests further explore the region's esteemed vineyards and savor gourmet meals paired with local wines. The final morning of the journey includes a wine tasting before guests either return home or board the ship.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
4-day post-cruise Journey,
Cape Town, South Africa | January 28-31, 2025
Guests debarking their voyage in Cape Town on January 28 can opt to take part in a multi-day post-cruise journey at the renowned Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.
Known for its conservation efforts and luxurious accommodations, Grootbos offers a warm welcome and transfer to the Forest Lodge, where guests stay in elegant suites surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Activities include exploring the Milkwood Forest, botanical hikes, 4x4 flower safaris, and visits to the ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve.
A private Cape Agulhas tour features wine tastings and a curated picnic in South Africa's southernmost wine region, known for its exquisite Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Syrah.
Guests enjoy a marine safari to see the "Marine Big Five"—whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins—guided by marine biologists from Dyer Island Cruises. Each evening, guests dine at Grootbos' unique lodge restaurants, the Garden and the Forest Lodge, before relaxing in the serene wilderness.
Ultimate Botswana Experience
7-day mid-cruise Journey,
Durban, South Africa | January 22-28, 2025
After disembarking in Durban, guests fly to Johannesburg and stay at the Sanctuary Mandela Boutique Hotel, Nelson Mandela's former residence.
The next day, they travel to Botswana's Sanctuary Baines' Camp, known for its intimate setting and unique construction using recycled cans, offering game drives and mokoro excursions in the Okavango Delta.
On the fourth day, guests transfer to the prestigious Chief's Camp in the Moremi Game Reserve, renowned for exceptional game viewing, including the "Big Five" - lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo - and over 500 bird species.
Guests enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, gourmet dining, and optional activities like scenic flights and spa treatments. The Journey concludes with a final morning game drive before flying to Maun and then Cape Town, where they rejoin Seabourn Sojourn to continue their voyage.
Guests on Seabourn’s 2024 Grand Africa Voyage can participate in Kariega Settlers Drift Safari (Photo Credit: Courtesy Seabourn Cruise Line)
Kariega Game Reserve
4-day mid cruise Journey,
Port Elizabeth, South Africa | January 25-28, 2025
Upon reaching Port Elizabeth, guests are transferred to Kariega Game Reserve, a vast 10,000-hectare wilderness known for its diverse wildlife, including the "Big Five", and abundant birdlife. Guests stay at Settlers Drift, a blend of tented safari and 5-star luxury, with private viewing decks overlooking the Bushman's River.
Over the next two days, they enjoy exhilarating morning and afternoon game drives, optional activities, and gourmet dining. On the fourth day, after a final game drive and breakfast, guests are transferred to Port Elizabeth Airport for their flight to Cape Town, where they rejoin Seabourn Sojourn to continue their voyage.
Onguma Tented Camp (Photo Credit: Courtesy Seabourn Cruise Line)
Escape To Etosha: Onguma The Fort
4-day mid cruise Journey, Cape Town, South Africa |January 29-February 2, 2025
This mid-cruise journey offers a luxurious safari at Onguma The Fort, a magical oasis where guests are treated to breathtaking views of the mesmerizing Namibian sunset.
With its prime location overlooking the Etosha Pans, the fort envelops visitors in massive, cool walls adorned with a blend of African, Moroccan, and Indian influences, all while surrounded by diverse wildlife.
Highlights include guided game drives to spot the "Big Five" and various antelope species, and opportunities to observe the breathtaking Namibian sunset from the main tower or during a sundowner safari.
Visitors can relax in elegant suites with private verandas, indulge in delicious meals, and learn about rhino conservation efforts. After several days of adventure and relaxation, guests fly to Walvis Bay to rejoin Seabourn Sojourn.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
