Have questions? We're here.
Elephant herd crossing the Chobe river at sunset

African Small Ship Cruises

Travel made your way
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Africa trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Explore the wonders of Africa with Adventure Life's array of 56 small ship cruises for 2025. Join us on a cruise journey through the continent's diverse landscapes and vibrant heritage, from the ancient wonders of Egypt to the pristine beauty of the Seychelles Islands. Dive into the rich history of Egypt on a classic tour, where you'll visit the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Karnak Temple, and cruise the Nile aboard a luxurious riverboat. Experience the Garden of Eden in the Seychelles, with stops at uninhabited islands, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on sun-washed beaches. Embark on a unique expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean, discovering the islands from Mahé to Zanzibar, observing tortoises, bird species, and enjoying spa relaxation. From the Cape Verde Archipelago to the Canary Islands, each cruise offers a blend of wildlife viewing, local market visits, and cultural immersion. With prices starting at $1,620 to $131,700, begin your African adventure today and contact one of Adventure Life's tour specialists for help planning your next seamless trip.
Filter (56 Results)
  • Start Date
    OR, More specific start
  • Length
    to
  • Price
    to
  • Activity Level
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Ships
  • Destinations
    • Africa
Entrance of Pico do Fogo
$3,090
EBD
EXPLORE

Islands of Cape Verde Archipelago

8 Day Itinerary aboard Harmony V
  • Taste locally made “grogue”
  • Visit the port of Mindelo
  • Explore the Fogo island
  • Discover Boavista's beaches
Starts / Ends:
Palmeira / Palmeira
Activities:
Hiking, Small Ship Cruises
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise to and from Palmeira aboard the Harmony V. Discover Cape Verde, an archipelago blending African and Portuguese heritage. Once a colonial outpost, it now offers a captivating mix of architecture, cuisine, and traditions. With a year-round pleasant climate, explore its …
Cruise Details
0
A snorkeler walking along a white sandy beach.
$2,790
EBD
EXPLORE

Cruises in the Garden of Eden

Seychelles - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Pegasos
  • Explore the island of Curieuse
  • Swim at Anse de Source d' Argent
  • Snorkel in the waters of St. Pierre
  • Visit the community of La Digue
Activities:
Scuba Diving, Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Board the Pegasos in Port Victoria and begin your adventure sailing through the Seychelles Islands. Stop at several uninhabited islands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, view large bird colonies, relax on sun-washed beaches, and take daily guided excursions. Enjoy 8 days on this relaxing cruise …
Cruise Details
0
The sun lights up this beautiful tropical forest.
$2,045
EBD
EXPLORE

Cruises in the Garden of Eden

Seychelles - 5 Day Itinerary aboard Pegasos
  • Snorkel world-renowned beaches
  • Visit Cousin Island Bird Sanctuary
  • Explore the island of Curieuse
Activities:
Scuba Diving, Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Cruise through the Seychelles Islands and discover the hidden gems of this unspoiled paradise. Spend 5 days snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and birding. Visit a bird sanctuary that is home to a quarter million breeding birds, explore one of the world's most beautiful beaches, and discover …
Cruise Details
0
Snorkelers interacting with a friendly whale shark.
$1,620
EXPLORE

Cruises in the Garden of Eden

Seychelles - 4 Day Itinerary aboard Pegasos
  • Visit La Digue, a quaint community
  • Discover Anse Source D’ Argent
  • Snorkel through crystal clear water
Activities:
Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Explore the Seychelles Islands on this 4-day cruise onboard the Pegasus. Board in Praslin Baie St. Anne and set sail for Felicite, a pristine snorkeling destination. Enjoy opportunities to explore the quaint community of La Digue, and take a guided tour around Moyenne Island. Cruising from island …
Cruise Details
0
Stunning Santa Monica beach on Boa Vista
$2,990
EXPLORE

Islands of Cape Verde Archipelago

8 Day Itinerary aboard Harmony G
  • Taste locally-made “grogue”
  • Visit the port of Mindelo
  • Explore the Fogo island
  • Try Chã das Caldeiras wine
Starts / Ends:
Palmeira / Palmeira
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Cruises
Activity Level:
Variable
Explore the archipelago of Cape Verde with its intoxicating mixture of African and Portuguese heritage and its welcoming locals. Once a former colony and trade outpost, the Cape Verde Islands of today offer a spellbinding blend of African and Portuguese influences in their architecture, food, …
Cruise Details
0
Sunset in Praia
$2,350
EXPLORE

St. Helena to Cape Verde

St Helena - Praia - 11 Day Itinerary aboard MV Hondius
  • Sail along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
  • See Jacob’s Ladder island views
  • Witness northbound spring migration
  • Visit Cidade Velha in Praia
Starts / Ends:
St. Helena Island / Praia
Activities:
Hiking, Small Ship Cruises, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Witness the northbound spring migration of birds like Arctic Terns and Long-tailed Skuas joining you in crossing the Equator ("the Line") on this 11-day cruise aboard MV Hondius. Your voyage starts with the unique flora and fauna of St. Helena. Sail along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the …
Cruise Details
0
Banjul - Gambia
$8,980
EXPLORE

Crucibles of West Africa

15 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Visit British built Fort William
  • Tour the historic Elmina Castle
  • Immerse in Abidjan's arts and music
  • See Freetown's Krio architecture
Starts / Ends:
Tema / Dakar
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Cruises, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on this15-day Crucibles of West Africa cruise from Ghana to Senegal aboard SH Diana. Immerse yourself in vibrant cultures, fascinating history, and wildlife as you cruise along the West African coast. Depart from Tema, with its busy streets and complex past, and visit colorful cities, …
Cruise Details
0
Gambia Stone Circles
$3,250
EBD
EXPLORE

Rivers of West Africa - Banjul to Banjul

8 Day Itinerary aboard Harmony V
  • Walk through to Batelling
  • Discover Baboon Island
  • Visit Kaur's museum
  • Explore Dakar's surroundings
Starts / Ends:
Banjul / Banjul
Activities:
River Cruises, Small Ship Cruises, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Harmony V. Cruise through the Rivers of Gambia & Senegal, perfect for curious explorers. Enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing along the West African coast and the Gambia River. Discover Senegal and Gambia's waterways with visits to 4 Natural Reserves, …
Cruise Details
0
Mahe - Morne Seychellois National Park
$8,760
EXPLORE

Zanzibar, Aldabra & the Treasures of the Indian Ocean

Victoria, Mahe - Zanzibar - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Bougainville
  • Explore Victoria, Mahé
  • Ride the Zodiac inflatables
  • Observe tortoises and bird species
  • Dive and snorkel with the guides
Starts / Ends:
Mahe / Zanzibar
Activities:
Scuba Diving, Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Spa Relaxation, Village Visits, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on Le Bougainville for this special 13-day expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean. From Victoria on Mahé, the first sail is to La Digue, where a veritable picture postcard of Seychelles awaits. Further on, on the small islands of Astove, there is an opportunity to snorkel and dive …
Cruise Details
0
Turquoise waters along the shore near Dakar, Senegal
$12,680
EXPLORE

The Slavery Coast: Cruise from Senegal to Ghana

Dakar to Tema - 15 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Discover Banjul’s Albert Market
  • Explore Bijagos Archipelago beauty
  • Visit Abidjan lively art galleries
  • Tour the historical Elmina Castle
Starts / Ends:
Dakar / Tema
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Sailing, Village Visits, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Set sail on this 15-day cruise along West Africa’s coast from Senegal to Ghana aboard SH Diana. Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, history, and natural beauty. Start your journey in Dakar where vibrant markets, museums, and seaside dining await. Next to Banjul and explore the Albert Market …
Cruise Details
0
The floating village of Ganvie
$12,680
EXPLORE

Southwest Africa Cruise

Luanda to Tema - 15 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Explore Luanda's Iron Palace
  • See Gabon's rainforests & wildlife
  • Swim at Príncipe’s Macaco Beach
  • Trek through Diosso Gorge
Starts / Ends:
Luanda / Tema
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Sailing, Snorkeling, Village Visits, Whale Watching, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Join this 15-day Southwest Africa cruise from Luanda to Tema aboard SH Diana. Begin in Luanda, a city transforming from its colonial and civil war history into a modern hub with landmarks like the Iron Palace and São Miguel Fortress. Next, arrive in Pointe-Noire and explore lively markets, …
Cruise Details
0
Dramatic sunset over La Digue Island in the Seychelles
$10,140
EXPLORE

Zanzibar, Aldabra & the Treasures of the Indian Ocean

Victoria, Mahe - Zanzibar - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Le Bougainville
  • Explore Victoria, Mahe
  • Ride the Zodiac inflatables
  • Observe tortoises and bird species
  • Dive and snorkel with the guides
Starts / Ends:
Mahe / Zanzibar
Activities:
Scuba Diving, Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Spa Relaxation, Village Visits, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on Le Bougainville for this special 13-day expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean. From Victoria on Mahe, the first sail is to La Digue, where a veritable picture postcard of Seychelles awaits. Further on, on the small islands of Astove, there is an opportunity to snorkel and dive among …
Cruise Details
0
Victoria, Mahe Island
$11,380
EXPLORE

Paradise Islands of the Indian Ocean

Mahe Island - Mombasa - 12 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Explore Victoria
  • Explore UNESCO-listed Aldabra atoll
  • Experience Bijoutier Island
  • Enjoy Assumption Island
Starts / Ends:
Victoria / Pemba Island
Activities:
Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on a 12-day expedition cruise aboard the SH Diana and explore the diverse landscapes of Seychelles and East Africa. Discover palm-fringed beaches and unique wildlife as you explore a selection of the remote 115 islands within the Indian Ocean archipelago. Then, journey to Tanzania and Kenya …
Cruise Details
0
Dramatic sunset over La Digue Island in the Seychelles
$11,110
EXPLORE

Madagascar and Seychelles: Natural Treasures of the Indian Ocean – with Smithsonian Journeys

Nosy Be - Victoria, Mahe - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Le Bougainville
  • Explore Nosy Be’s forest & wildlife
  • Swim in Nosy Tanikely’s lagoon
  • Snorkel in Nosy Hara’s
  • Discover La Digue’s
Starts / Ends:
Nosy Be / Victoria
Activities:
Small Ship Cruises, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville through the western Indian Ocean, discovering some of the world's most stunning tropical islands. Starting in northern Madagascar, explore Nosy Be and its nearby islands, including Nosy Tanikely, whose pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, …
Cruise Details
0
Enjoy the clear blue waters of the Canary Islands
$4,140
Savings
EXPLORE

The Canaries, lands of contrasts

8 Day Itinerary aboard Le Boreal
  • Explore Fuerteventura sand dunes
  • Visit La Gomera's biosphere reserve
  • See Lanzarote's volcanic tunnels
  • See the whistling language of Silbo
Starts / Ends:
Las Palmas / Las Palmas
Activities:
Biking, Small Ship Cruises
Activity Level:
Variable
Join this 8-day cruise roundtrip to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria aboard Le Boreal to discover the beauty of the Canary Islands. See the stunning landscapes of these majestic islands, featuring lunar valleys with crimson and ashen reflections, lush vegetation, craggy coves, and sand dunes. Visit the …
Cruise Details
0
Panoramic photo of beach in Senegal
$12,680
EXPLORE

Cruise West Africa: The Slavery Coast

Tema to Dakar - 15 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Visit Monrovia’s National Museum
  • Cruise through Bijagos Archipelago
  • Stroll through Takoradi’s markets
  • Explore Accra’s historic forts
Starts / Ends:
Tema / Dakar
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Sailing, Village Visits, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Set sail on a 15-day cruise along West Africa from Tema to Dakar aboard SH Diana. Exploring the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the UNESCO-listed Elmina Castle, once a central hub in the transatlantic slave trade, and discover the twin cities of Sekondi-Takoradi with …
Cruise Details
0
Loango National Park
$8,980
EXPLORE

Unspoilt Wilds of Southwest Africa

15 Day Itinerary aboard SH Diana
  • Savor traditional cuisine
  • Visit Conkouati Reserve
  • Visit Loango National Park
  • Visit world's oldest voodoo market
Starts / Ends:
Luanda / Accra
Activities:
Local Market Visits, Small Ship Cruises, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Join this 15-day Unspoilt Wilds of Southwest Africa cruise aboard SH Diana that departs from the Southern African country of Angola and sails up the Atlantic coast via the Central African countries of Congo and Sao Tome to West Africa’s Benin and Togo, finally arriving on the Gold Coast in …
Cruise Details
0
River Gambia
$2,990
EXPLORE

Rivers of West Africa - Banjul to Banjul

8 Day Itinerary aboard Harmony G
  • Walk through to Batelling
  • Discover Baboon Island
  • Visit Kaur's museum
  • Explore Dakar's surroundings
Starts / Ends:
Banjul / Dakar
Activities:
River Cruises, Small Ship Cruises, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Variable
Join the Harmony G for a fascinating 8-day cruise along the coast of West Africa and upstream the Gambia River, deep inside the African continent. Discover the flora, fauna, and history of Africa as you voyage through the waterways of Senegal and Gambia. Visit no less than four Natural Reserves and …
Cruise Details
0
1-18 of 56 Results

Africa Travel Guide

Favorite Africa Africa All Trips

Top Africa Travel Destinations

Africa Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Africa

Africa Trips by Duration

Africa Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By