Seabourn Places South Africa at Centre of 2028 Cape to Cape World Cruise

Seabourn has spotlighted South Africa as the pivotal midpoint of its newly announced 2028 Cape to Cape World Cruise, one of the most daring global itineraries in luxury cruising. With the Seabourn Quest set to depart from Miami on January 7, 2028, and reach Dover after 120 extraordinary days, this voyage positions Cape Town and the iconic Cape of Good Hope as both a geographic and cultural cornerstone of a journey spanning five continents and over 50 destinations.

This grand world cruise will take in legendary maritime routes, including the rounding of Cape Horn in South America before crossing the South Atlantic for an extended stop in Cape Town. The passage around the Cape of Good Hope not only revives the romance of historic seafaring but also cements South Africa’s role as a strategic hub in modern long-haul cruising, bridging the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. For regional cruise and tourism professionals, this sends a powerful message about the country’s growing influence and connectivity in global itineraries.

The Seabourn Quest will cover approximately 26,000 nautical miles, transiting the Panama Canal, venturing south to Antarctica and the Chilean Fjords, and then continuing to Europe via Africa’s southernmost tip. For guests preferring a shorter experience, a 112-day option allows disembarkation in Lisbon, still including the major highlights of the expedition.

For the first time in Seabourn’s world cruise history, guests will enjoy expedition-style experiences as a core part of the voyage. An expanded 18-person expedition team will lead activities such as complimentary Zodiac cruising and guided hikes in Antarctica, the Chilean Fjords, and selected other regions. Optional kayaking experiences will also be available, appealing to travellers seeking both luxury and adventure in a single journey. The cruise will also feature multiple maiden calls, including Robinson Crusoe Island, Santa Clara Island in the South Pacific, Nightingale Island in the South Atlantic, and Garibaldi Glacier in Chile. In total, more than 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be accessible along the route, offering exceptional enrichment opportunities for passengers.

This world cruise is set to launch Seabourn’s 40th anniversary year, with the route’s Panama Canal transit echoing the company’s inaugural voyage. The cruise line is offering two versions of the journey: the full 120-day Miami-to-Dover adventure from US\$77,999 per person (double occupancy), and a 112-day version to Lisbon starting at US\$72,799. Both fares include taxes, fees, roundtrip business class air, a multi-day Machu Picchu excursion, shipboard credits of up to US\$10,000 for top suites, Starlink-powered streaming Wi-Fi, unlimited laundry, a Miami hotel night, and even a complimentary polar parka. Early bookings before January 30, 2026, qualify for significant savings and a 50 per cent reduced deposit.

For Africa’s cruise market and travel professionals, the central role of South Africa in such a marquee itinerary offers fresh inspiration for partnerships, product development, and destination marketing. As more global cruise lines recognize the strategic and experiential value of South African ports, the region stands to gain from increased visitor numbers, enhanced connectivity, and greater exposure on the world stage. The 2028 Cape to Cape World Cruise not only celebrates the legacy of legendary sea routes but also signals an exciting new chapter for Africa as a core player in the evolving world of luxury cruising.