Cape Town

Cape Town

South Africa

Ride a rotating cable car 3,600 feet up Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains.

Currency South African Rand (ZAR)
Language English, Xhosa, Afrikaans
Time Zone SAST (UTC+2)
Best Time to Visit Dec–Apr
Typical Duration 20-56 nights
Price Range $274–$94,500 per person
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
Tender Port No

Cape Town is a premier gateway to southern Africa, offering stunning Table Mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and access to unique African destinations like Walvis Bay and the Indian Ocean region.

Cruises that visit Cape Town

Build Your Day in Cape Town

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Embarkation port — worth arriving early
Getting around:
V&A Waterfront Amazing location in Cape town with lots of activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 110k
Canal Walk Shopping Centre Huge shopping mall with an opulent feel Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 62k Open · Closes 9 PM
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Nature reserve with mountain views Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 34k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Boulders Beach Sandy cove with resident penguin colony Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 29k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Two Oceans Aquarium Up-close encounters with marine life Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 25k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Tue
Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre Vibrant venue with shops & eateries Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 23k Open · Closes 9 PM
Table Mountain National Park Mountaintop & coastal nature reserve National park · ★ 4.7 · 22k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Tue
Cavendish Square Mall with chain stores & a cinema Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 20k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
N1 City Mall Major retailers, dining, arcade & cinema Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 18k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Cape of Good Hope Nice if you want to tick a checklist of things to do in cape town. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 13k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
Castle of Good Hope 17th-century castle with military museum Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 13k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
The Cape Wheel Observation wheel with enclosed cabins Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 11k
Cape Point Nature Reserve Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 11k Closed · Opens 6 AM Tue
Eastern Food Bazaar Row of Indian & Chinese takeaway stalls Indian · ★ 4.3 · 10k
Golden Acre Enduring mall in a former train station Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 9k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum Displays on local Islamic culture Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 7k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Greenmarket Square Historical area with a market for crafts Market · ★ 4.1 · 6k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island This is something everyone coming to Cape Town must visit. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 6k Closed · Opens 7:30 AM Tue
Truth Coffee Roasting Cafe with 19th-century sci-fi design Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 6k
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa Industrial-chic venue for modern works Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 6k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Kloof Street House Eclectic cuisine in Victorian setting Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 6k
Gardens Shopping Centre Snug retail hub with shops & groceries Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 6k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
City Sightseeing Cape Town | Official Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Onsite services·Online appointments Tour operator · ★ 4.7 · 6k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Den Anker Quayside spot for Belgian beer & seafood Belgian · ★ 4.4 · 5k
Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village Refined mall with 100+ shops & eateries Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 5k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Tiger's Milk Long Street Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 5k
GOLD Restaurant It's been the best dinner experience I've had in South Africa! African · ★ 4.5 · 4k
The Dog's Bollocks at YARD Rustic burger joint with patio seating Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 4k
Burger & Lobster by PAN Collection A lovely retro, casual type vibe, with a family friendly twist. Hamburger · ★ 4.4 · 3k
Beluga Cape Town The food was divine, complimented by impeccable service from our waiter. Asian Fusion · ★ 4.3 · 3k
Pigalle Restaurant Seafood, steak & jazz dinner concerts Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 3k
Asoka Restaurant, Bar and Lounge Mellow bar for cocktails & Asian food Bar · ★ 4.3 · 3k
Utopia Cape Town Excellent food, friendly staff, stunning views over Cape Town at sunset. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 3k
Bloubergstrand Beach Beautiful view and a nice beach to swim Beach · ★ 4.6 · 3k
La Colombe Restaurant Chic country-style vineyard restaurant Modern French · ★ 4.8 · 3k
St James Beach ... family beach, very clean, scenic views and a protected tidal pool. Beach · ★ 4.4 · 3k
Food Lover's Eatery Newspaper House Contemporary market with prepared foods Brasserie · ★ 4.4 · 3k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
The Village Idiot Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 3k Closed · Opens 6 PM Wed
Mama Africa Colourful restaurant with eclectic music African · ★ 4.2 · 3k
Clarke's Bar & Dining Room Burgers, live music & drinks specials Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 3k
The Cousins Trattoria Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Italian · ★ 4.6 · 2k
The Pot Luck Club Hip, vibrant tapas place with city views Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Marco's African Place Game restaurant with daily local bands Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k
Intaka Island Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 7:30 AM Tue
The House of Machines Hip cafe with cocktails & live music Bar · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 4 PM Thu
Melkbosstrand Beach Beautiful views of table mountain and safe beach for swimming. Public beach · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen Dine-in·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.2 · 2k
The Athletic Club & Social Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Jazz · ★ 4.5 · 2k
VIXI Social House Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Bo-Vine Wine & Grill House Camps Bay Dine-in·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k
The Point Mall | Shopping Centre | Sea Point In-store pickup Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 2k Open · Closes 9 PM
The Gin Bar Onsite services Bar · ★ 4.6 · 2k
The Woodlands Eatery Lovely setting for a casual, delicious dinner with friends Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k
Black Sheep Restaurant Modern restaurant serving Cape cuisine Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Foxcroft Restaurant ... best food experiences we’ve ever had - worthy of a Michelin Star. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k Closes soon · 8:30 PM
Fyn Restaurant Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closes soon · 8:30 PM
Mouille Point Beach Love this Beach and surroundings very peaceful Beach · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Saunders Rock Beach ... and chilled beach area to swim in the chilly sea and bathing pool. Public beach · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Rocklands Beach A great beach for a view and not for swimming. Beach pavillion · ★ 4.4 · 1k
The Blue Cafe Snug staple with light fare & a patio Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Cape Town Diamond Museum This should definitely be on any list of activities to do in Cape Town! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closes soon · 8 PM
Belly of the beast Absolutely delicious - the best food we had on our 2 week South Africa trip. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Bakoven Beach Great place to watch the sunset on the rocks and go for a swim Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Ethiopian Madam Taitou Dine-in·Curbside pickup Ethiopian · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Origin Coffee Roasting Artisan coffee company's cafe & HQ Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
TTK Fledgelings Modern restaurant with an eclectic menu Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closes soon · 8 PM
Zest Restaurant Wonderful casual vibe with food that’s equal to fine dining ! Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Rosetta Roastery Cafe (Bree Street) High-end coffee in a hip atmosphere Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
Swan Café Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Tue
The Ladder Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
Kanéla Café Dine-in·Curbside pickup Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Jack@SKYE Rooftop Bar and Restaurant Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Bar · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Seven Colours Eatery Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery South African · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
Aubergine Restaurant Each dish was so perfectly paired, rich in thought, flavour and design. Fine Dining · ★ 4.5 · 1k
fable Dine-in·Delivery·No takeout Cocktail bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Tue
Ground Art Caffe Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Tue
Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia A Memorable Lunch in the Protea Pod — Stunning Views & Exceptional Cuisine! Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
The Planetarium Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Tue
The Dark Horse Dine-in·No delivery Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM Tue
Reverie Social Table Amazing experience, the food was delicious and pairings were perfect! Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k
The Drinkery Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Talking To Strangers Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
City Pass Cape Town Onsite services not available Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Barley Beach Cape Town Situated between Camps Bay tidal pool and Beta Beach. Park · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Maiden's Cove Tidal Pool It’s also a perfect spot to hit with children as the tidal pool is calm. Swimming pool · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Amura The food was delightful, the venue stunning, and the service exceptional. Seafood · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Maiden's Cove The place units everything - ocean, mountains, beach, houses. Park · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Waterfront Mall Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Things To Do In Cape Town Tour agency · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Cape Town is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Cape Town

About Cape Town

Cape Town stands as one of the world's most captivating cruise destinations, where dramatic mountain landscapes meet vibrant urban culture and pristine natural beauty. This iconic South African port has earned its place on some of the most prestigious cruise itineraries, attracting travelers seeking authentic African experiences combined with world-class amenities. Whether you're embarking on an extended voyage or enjoying a meaningful port of call, Cape Town delivers unforgettable moments that linger long after you've returned to your ship.

As a primarily port of call destination, Cape Town features prominently on longer cruise itineraries that explore Africa's coastlines and beyond. You'll find it featured on 20-night voyages and extended journeys that venture to destinations like Walvis Bay, Port Louis, and Gqeberha, as well as on epic repositioning cruises heading toward Singapore or Lisbon. Nine distinguished cruise lines including MSC Cruises, Silversea, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Holland America Line regularly call here, offering diverse experiences for every traveler.

Your time in Cape Town grants easy access to some of the Southern Hemisphere's greatest treasures. The iconic Table Mountain rises majestically above the city, the Cape of Good Hope awaits exploration, and the nearby Winelands offer world-renowned vintages. The V&A Waterfront provides excellent shopping and dining steps from where your ship docks, while the city's rich cultural heritage, vibrant neighborhoods, and warm hospitality ensure every moment ashore becomes a cherished memory.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Table Mountain's Iconic Majesty

Ride the rotating cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, for breathtaking 360-degree views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Cape Peninsula. This unforgettable experience takes just a few hours from the cruise terminal.

2

Waterfront Markets & Local Flavors

Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront's bustling markets and sample authentic South African cuisine at waterfront restaurants. Try local specialties like snoek fish, bobotie, and Cape Malay curries while browsing artisan crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. The waterfront is a short walk or quick shuttle ride from the cruise port.

3

Robben Island's Historic Legacy

Take a ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum. Guided tours reveal powerful stories of South African history and resilience. The island visit, including ferry time, fits perfectly into a port day and offers profound cultural insight.

4

Cape Peninsula's Penguin Paradise

Drive to Boulders Beach to encounter African penguins in their natural habitat, a unique wildlife experience found nowhere else in Africa. The scenic coastal drive offers stunning ocean views and photo opportunities. This half-day excursion combines nature, wildlife, and spectacular scenery all within reach of the port.

5

Bo-Kaap's Colorful Streets & Culture

Wander through the Bo-Kaap neighborhood's famous rainbow-colored Victorian houses and experience Cape Town's rich multicultural heritage. Browse independent galleries, boutiques, and cafés while learning about the area's Cape Malay community through street art and local guides. This vibrant district is easily accessible and authentically captures local Cape Town character.

Cruise Lines at Cape Town

Cruises Departing From Cape Town

Cruises Visiting Cape Town

Ship Schedule at Cape Town

Cape Town Location

Other Cruise Ports in South Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the port code for Cape Town?

The port code ZACPT identifies the Cape Town port in South Africa.

What are the main activities at Cape Town Port?

Main activities include container handling, fishing support, and logistical services.

What attractions are nearby Cape Town Port?

Nearby attractions include Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and Kirstenbosch Gardens.

Is port sightseeing restricted?

Port access is restricted in many areas; guided tours can be arranged.