Join the crossover cruise or one of the themed sailings, including Bok Boot, Oppiwater Kunstefees, and the MiCasa Friendship Cruise
Cape Town, South Africa, 24 March 2026 – Following a successful season in Durban, which marked the start of the South African cruise season in November 2025, MSC Opera will now make her way to Cape Town to conclude her time in local waters.
On 27 March, the vessel will set sail on a three-night voyage from Durban’s Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal to kick off the Cape Town leg of the season. This sailing offers travellers a final opportunity to experience cruising along South Africa’s spectacular coastline before the season concludes in April.
After three nights at sea, MSC Opera will arrive at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal, located just metres from the V&A Waterfront, with Table Mountain as its dramatic backdrop. The Cape Town programme will offer guests a selection of three-night cruises into the Indian Ocean, as well as longer five-night round-trip voyages to Walvis Bay, Namibia.
Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa says: “Our arrival in Cape Town is always a highlight of the season. The Durban to Cape Town crossover not only connects two of South Africa’s most iconic cities but also opens the door to a vibrant programme of departures that combine world-class cruising with unique local experiences. From music and the arts to immersive themed entertainment, these final sailings offer something for every type of traveller.”
Walvis Bay, a popular destination during the local cruise season, is famed for its tidal lagoon, home to flamingos, pelicans and abundant marine life. Nearby Swakopmund offers a blend of German-influenced architecture, coastal charm, and adventure activities such as sandboarding and quad biking along the Skeleton Coast.
Adding to the appeal, three themed cruises will transform MSC Opera into a vibrant hub of music, arts, and shared experiences at sea.
The Bok Boot Cruise, sailing from 30 March to 4 April, brings together the Bok Radio team and some of South Africa’s leading artists for a vibrant music experience.
From 9 to 14 April, Oppiwater Kunstefees returns for its twelfth edition. Presented by RSG and Lefra Productions, this immersive festival at sea transforms MSC Opera into a floating cultural stage, featuring theatre, comedy, music, opera, and dance.
The season will conclude on a high note with the MiCasa Friendship Cruise (14–17 April), powered by Heart FM. This feel-good sailing invites guests to enjoy three days of live music, great food, and vibrant entertainment alongside Mi Casa and friends.
Across each of these sailings, guests can enjoy everything MSC Opera has to offer on board, where relaxation, dining, and entertainment come together seamlessly.
Cruise fans won’t have to wait long for the next adventure. The 2026/2027 local season begins on 27 November 2026 with the arrival of MSC Armonia, a stylish Lirica-class ship offering a more intimate, Mediterranean-style cruise experience. Sailing from both Durban and Cape Town, she will offer guests family-friendly facilities, world-class entertainment, and memorable experiences.
For now, MSC Opera’s Cape Town departures offer one final opportunity this season to experience cruising from South Africa’s iconic port city.
