Themed cruises to float your boat

First-time cruiser and still on the fence about taking to the high seas? Themed cruises promise interest- or milestone-specific experiences – many of which are all-inclusive. Whether you're a foodie or a matric looking to de-stress after a long year of studying, Flight Centre is here to guide you in finding the perfect cruise to suit your preferences. Let’s dive in…

2min read

Published 6 August 2023

Flight Centre

For the foodies

Foodie or wine lover? There’s more than just succulent seafood awaiting at sea. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Oceania Cruises are well-known for their foodie cruises, where gastronomy takes centre stage. These cruises go beyond delectable meals and offer captivating cooking demonstrations, interactive workshops, and exclusive wine tasting and pairing experiences.

Great news – NCL's Meet the Winemaker Cruise Series is back this year! Imagine engaging in educational Q&A sessions with the culinary world's most respected masters while sipping on the finest vintages? To add to the excitement, selected cruises will feature unique culinary experiences sponsored by Certified Angus Beef.

For families

Today’s cruise ships are equipped with a plethora of family-friendly amenities to keep everyone engaged. The best part? If you book a cruise departing from South Africa, you can avoid long-haul flights – a massive relief, especially for parents with younger children.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is renowned for its exceptional youth programs catering to kids of all ages. From the Guppies Program (for children aged six months to four years) to Splash Academy (for ages three to 12) and Entourage (for ages 12 to 17), there are activities tailored to every age group. NCL's family accommodation options, including multi-room suites and interconnecting staterooms, provide ample space for a comfortable and enjoyable family vacation.

What about the entertainment? From rock climbing to pizza parties and scavenger hunts, the options for fun and adventure are endless on a family-friendly cruise.

10 Reasons why cruising with NCL ticks all the boxes

For the honeymooners

For newlywed couples seeking a romantic getaway, a honeymoon cruise is the epitome of bliss. Celebrity Cruises is celebrated for its honeymoon packages, including adorable extras like a customised cake, flowers, chocolate-covered strawberries, wine, and breakfast in bed served with mimosas.

NCL also goes above and beyond to ramp up the romance on board. NCL offers Romance Packages, allowing couples to enjoy romantic dinners for two, couples’ massages and even professional portraits to capture those special moments. The ultimate indulgence for honeymooners is a lavish stay in The Haven by Norwegian, located at the ship's highest point, with a dedicated 24-hour butler, a private pool and a secluded sundeck.

For the matrics

Matric cruises are the perfect way to celebrate achievements and bid farewell to the high school years. Matrics are bound to create lifelong memories on board, as well as dance the nights away.

MSC Cruises is renowned for throwing the ultimate party. The line’s annual matric cruise departs in December, always promising an impressive line-up of performers. Matrics can look forward to non-stop excitement in the form of live music, world-class bars and restaurants and an extensive range of entertainment options, such as the Club 33 Disco, a 4D cinema and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

MSC Cruises: What To Expect On Board Your Ocean Adventure

For the dance and music lovers

MSC Cruises is loud and proud when it comes to its party and music cruises. Its best-known party cruise is arguably Oh Ship, generally setting sail every year in November or December. Oh Ship promises all hands on deck regarding entertainment, welcoming South Africa’s most popular DJs, live performers and comedians on board to ensure the party of a lifetime.

Krone Cruise and Super Sokkie are also sought-after music cruises offered by MSC, both sailing from Durban to Mozambique and perfect for Afrikaans music fans. There’s something special about cruising at your leisure, in your own language and while listening to your favourite music.

Prepare yourself for a remarkable line-up of exclusive concerts, along with intimate meet-and-greet sessions, exquisite dining experiences and, of course, Krone Karaoke – where you can showcase your vocal talents alongside your favourite Krone artist.

Finally, you don’t want to miss The Bhangra Boat cruise. It promises curated fusion entertainment, including a diverse blend of music, comedy, bhangra, Tamil and dance parties.