Grand Voyage from Venice to South Africa With Zululand Safari

Venice - Crete - Rhodes- Suez Canal- Jordan - Indian Ocean - South Africa

Book this extraordinary 26-night MSC Armonia cruise from Venice to Durban via the legendary Suez Canal. Sail through the Adriatic past Split, island hop across Crete and Rhodes; then explore Petra from Aqaba. in Jordan Experience Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh, then journey across the Indian Ocean to Seychelles, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Réunion. Conclude in Durban with an unforgettable KwaZulu Big 5 Safari.

Discover the legend of the Labyrinth and Minotaur on Crete, stand in the footsteps of the Colossus of Rhodes and visit ancient Petra in Jordan - Indiana Jones style. Witness the spectacle of cruising through the Suez Canal and relax on the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh. Island hop across the Indian Ocean to Africa for the flora and fauna of Madagascar and Zululand. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure blending culture, history, and exotic beauty.

Fly to Venice and make your way to Mestre Venice for an overnight hotel stay.

Hotel Plaza Venice

The 4-star Hotel Plaza boasts a prime location directly opposite Mestre Train Station, offering convenient access to Venice Island (10 minutes by train/bus) and Marco Polo Airport (20 minutes by shuttle). This cuts out expensive and complicated water taxi transfers. Also from Mestre it is just a short taxi hop to the nearby cruise terminals of Marghera and Fusina. The hotel's 211 air-conditioned ensuite rooms range from doubles for single use to family rooms, available in classic, superior, deluxe, or executive categories. All rooms feature satellite TV, a telephone, and a safe. Bathrooms are equipped with either a shower or bathtub, a hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy 24-hour reception service, luggage storage, an ATM, and room service. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. The 'Soul Kitchen' restaurant serves regional Italian cuisine, and a buffet breakfast is offered daily. Meeting rooms with video projectors are available for business needs.

A further overnight hotel stay.

Venice

History, architecture, dining, romance and pure wander lust through the cobbled streets and by the canals is what Venice is all about. Top souvenirs would be Venetian Glass (also known as Murano Glass) or the famous and flamboyant masks. Standing in the middle of the magnificent piazza San Marco is an experience in itself -once described by: Napoleon as the 'drawing room of Europe'. St Mark's Basilica ,Doge's Palace and the clock tower built between 1496 and 1506 - are the city's main attractions. St. Mark's Basilica, built in the eleventh century, is the most famous and most recognizable of all the churches in the city of Venice. Its design is considered one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the world, known for its opulent design and gilded interior mosaics, and nicknamed "Church of Gold". The magnificent Doge's Palace is one of the most important buildings in Venice; it was the centre of power, from where the Venetian Republic was ruled. No trip to Venice would be complete without a punt down one of the city's picturesque waterways in an iconic gondola.

Make your way to the nearby cruise port in Marghera to embark the ship.

MSC Armonia

MSC Armonia was one of the original ships of today's modern MSC fleet. She entered service in 2001 and was updated in 2014 under MSC's Renaissance programme when she was lengthened by adding a 24 metre section which included the new Doremi splash park. This 65,542 tonne ship at now 274.9 metres long carries 2,658 passengers over 13 decks. You’ll especially appreciate the White Lion pub where friendly service and an easy-going charm will quickly turn everyone into a ‘local’. Later, as you leave the setting sun and another port of call in your wake it’s time to explore the many bars, lounges and, perhaps, a special evening at the Teatro La Fenice? Whatever you do and wherever you go aboard MSC Armonia, a happy and harmonious cruise comes as standard!

MSC Armonia offers two main restaurants, La Pergola and Marco Polo and an outdoor restaurant, Il Girasole. Each one boasts a superb selection of cuisine. Quality is the key from properly sourced choice Italian meats to the freshest of fresh fruit. Every product is fresh and carefully handled, such as bread baked on board with the passion and knowledge of the most distinctive boulangerie. Dishes range from traditional and tasty Mediterranean fare, to the most refined international recipes. For a quick lunch choose La Brasserie Cafeteria offering the utmost quality and variety in Italian and international cuisine.

Split

Split is a medieval port which nestles on the sparkling Dalmatian Coastline of Croatia has a picturesque pedestrianised centre and a 60-metre-high cathedral bell tower. Diocletian's Palace is one of the best preserved Roman Palaces in Europe and a UNESCO world heritage site.

Enjoy an uninterrupted day of relaxation at sea taking advantage of the facilities, entertainment and dining options on board.

Heraklion (Crete)

Crete is the southernmost and largest of the Greek Islands. The major port of call is the Capital Heraklion in the centre of the Island. This is close to the ancient Palace of Knossos and the Minoan civilisation from 4000 years BC. Knossos is home to the ancient myth of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth . During world War II Crete was the last bastion of the Greek resistance when the locals helped Allied troops escape South through the Samaria Gorge as German paratroopers invaded from Souda Bay. Here you will high snow-capped mountains, an incredible 12km hiking trail through the Samaria Gorge and ancient Lassithi Plateau with its windmills and the birth-place of Zeus.

Rhodes

Rhodes is part of the Dodecanese chain of islands and situated close to the Turkish coast. Rhodes is the largest of this 12 islands chain where the Colossus is once said to have stood straddling Mandraki Harbour next to the ancient walled city of Rhodes Town. Rhodes Old Town is an ancient walled city with its cobbled streets and history that dates back to the crusades and the Knights of St John. Visit the Acropolis of Rhodes, Temple of Apollo, Palace of the Grand Master, Modern Art Gallery and perhaps have a flutter in the casino. There is so much more to Rhodes such as Efta Piges (7 Springs Park) with its ancient underground aquifer and fresh water lake, the Roman Spa at Kalithea, picturesque Lindos, tiny hill top white washed churches, olive groves and wonderful beaches.

Suez Canal

The Suez Canal is one of the world’s most iconic waterways, linking the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea and creating a vital passage between Europe and Asia. This engineering marvel offers a unique cruising experience, where history meets breathtaking views. Sailing through the Suez Canal is a highlight of any voyage, combining convenience with the thrill of traversing one of the most strategic and historic routes on Earth.

Aqaba

Aqaba, Jordan’s stunning Red Sea port, is the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological treasures—Petra. From Aqaba, embark on an unforgettable journey to the ancient ‘Rose City,’ a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into vibrant sandstone cliffs. This stop combines crystal-clear waters and rich marine life with the chance to explore Petra’s breathtaking monuments, making Aqaba a highlight of any luxury cruise itinerary.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, perched on the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula along the Red Sea, is a world-famous resort destination. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and spectacular diving and snorkeling spots, it attracts adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. Visitors can explore Ras Mohammed National Park, enjoy luxury resorts and spa experiences, or take desert excursions and camel rides. With a lively marina, watersport activities, and stunning sunsets, Sharm El Sheikh offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.

Enjoy an uninterrupted day of relaxation at sea taking advantage of the facilities, entertainment and dining options on board.

Port Victoria (Mahé)

Located northeast of Madagascar, Seychelles is an archipelago of 158 islands in the Indian Ocean and is famous for its deserted idyllic white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. Victoria is its capital city, located on Mahe Island. No visit to the Seychelles would be complete without a visit to the rock pools, boulders and palm tree lined beaches of La Digue.

Enjoy an uninterrupted day of relaxation at sea taking advantage of the facilities, entertainment and dining options on board.

Nosy Be

Occupied by Europeans in the 17th century and serving as a trading post -you will discover many historical sites dating from the colonial era, including Sainte Luce, a fishing village with its long beaches bordered by casuarinas and palm trees. Perhaps visit Fort-Flacourt, the remains of an ancient bastion, the museum of Anosy (retracing the colonial history) or the Fort of the Portugueses.

Antsiranana

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is a port city in northern Madagascar. It sits on Antsiranana Bay, a vast natural harbour made up of several smaller bays. Offshore, conical Nosy Lonja, or Sugar Loaf Island, is considered sacred by locals. Long, sandy Ramena Beach lies to the northeast. The city's French colonial architecture is highlighted by the old covered market and the ruins of the Hôtel de la Marine.

Port Louis

Port Louis has tropical beaches, diverse cultures, rugged natural beauty, and tranquil temples; cosmopolitan Mauritius has something for everyone. Highlights include a visit to Tamarind Falls – a string of seven waterfalls set in a breathtaking tropical valley, the Crocodile Park for its namesake and a host of other local wildlife and Black River Gorges National Park, where you can hike to the highest point of the Island.

Reunion Island

Reunion Island is unique, located in the middle of the Indian Ocean is simply one of the most intriguing spots on earth. Not as well-known as nearby Mauritius or the not-so-far-away British Seychelles, little Reunion seems but a speck in the vast ocean, dwarfed by Madagascar, located 500 miles to the west. The French know the island well but only the very well-travelled have ever stepped foot on Reunion's varied and enticing terrain. With an active volcano on its south coast, 17 miles of warm, welcoming beaches in the west, and lots of mountains and forests in between, Reunion Island offers opportunities ranging from relaxing to truly insane. Perhaps take a hike to Reunion's unique "cirques" or visit the island's many waterfalls.

Enjoy an uninterrupted day of relaxation at sea taking advantage of the facilities, entertainment and dining options on board.

Disembark the ship after breakfast and make your way to Durban's beach area for an overnight hotel stay.

Hilton Durban

Corporate elegance, the Hilton Durban is an iconic landmark hotel offering guest rooms in a supreme location near the Durban International Convention Center. Voted South Africa’s Leading Business Hotel at the World Travel Awards from 2013 to 2019. All 328 guest rooms offer gorgeous views of the city or coastline. Expect the highest standard of service, impressive facilities and dishes to suit any taste. With meeting rooms and grand ballroom space for up to 300 guests, Hilton Durban is one of the most established conference hotels in Durban.

Stay connected with WiFi access and work efficiently in the business center. Executive guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and refreshments in the stylish Business Lounge. The outdoor swimming pool and our fitness center also offer an ideal place to unwind after a busy day. Refuel at Vasco's restaurant, serving breakfast and dinner buffets with a variety of theme nights. For light snacks visit our Coral Lounge Cafe, located in the Lobby of the hotel. Alternatively take advantage of our 24 in-room dining service. These are just a few reasons why the Hilton Durban is here to make the most of your stay by offering the services you need, the amenities you expect, and the extras you deserve. Your home away from home.

A further overnight hotel stay.

Durban

Durban, South Africa’s vibrant coastal city, sits on the eastern shores along the sparkling Indian Ocean in KwaZulu-Natal. Known for its golden beaches, warm subtropical climate, and rich cultural tapestry, Durban is a hub of activity and relaxation. Visitors can stroll along the famous Golden Mile beachfront, try surfing or dolphin spotting, and explore uShaka Marine World with its aquariums and waterpark. The city’s diverse heritage is reflected in attractions like the bustling Victoria Street Market, the historic KwaMuhle Museum, and the lively Zulu culture experiences nearby. With a thriving culinary scene blending Indian, African, and international flavours, Durban offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

A further overnight hotel stay.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Start Date Interior Oceanview Balcony Suite
30/10/26 £2869 £3119 £4009 £5099 view