Southampton to Cape Town in Style on the Queen Anne Cruise Ship
- Miles Willis
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
Southampton to Cape Town in Style: A 20-Night Queen Anne Cruise Adventure
If you’ve ever dreamt of travelling the ocean the way it was meant to be travelled — slowly, stylishly, and with every luxury at your fingertips — then Cunard’s newest liner, the Queen Anne, has your name on it. In January 2026, she will set sail on a 20-night journey from Southampton to Cape Town (11–31 January), a voyage that bridges Europe and Africa with a string of captivating Atlantic islands in between.
With fares from just R51,050 per person sharing, this voyage offers not only exceptional value but also a timeless travel experience. Here’s why this is a sailing worth booking.
Why Choose Queen Anne Cruise Ship?
Launched as the newest jewel in Cunard’s crown, Queen Anne Cruise Ship blends the classic touches Cunard passengers love — afternoon tea, ballroom dancing, gala evenings — with a fresh, contemporary design. On board you’ll find:
Dining for every mood: traditional Britannia restaurant meals, exclusive Grill dining for suite guests, plus speciality restaurants serving world flavours.
Entertainment: lavish theatre productions, intimate show bars, enrichment lectures, and live music.
Wellness & relaxation: a luxurious spa, fitness classes, open decks, and quiet reading nooks.
Accommodation: from well-designed Britannia staterooms to indulgent Queens Grill suites, all offering comfort at sea.
This ship is not about frantic activities — it’s about embracing the rhythm of ocean travel.
The Itinerary
This cruise isn’t just a repositioning voyage — it’s a curated journey. After leaving Southampton, you’ll enjoy sea days before arriving at:
Madeira (Funchal, Portugal) – Known for lush gardens, levada walks, and Madeira wine.
Tenerife (Canary Islands) – A chance to explore volcanic Mount Teide, stunning beaches, and charming villages.
Mindelo, São Vicente (Cape Verde) – Alive with music, colourful markets, and African-European culture.
Walvis Bay (Namibia) – Desert dunes meet the Atlantic; see flamingos, seals, and dramatic landscapes.
Cape Town (South Africa) – A triumphant arrival with Table Mountain as your backdrop.
Must-Do Shore Excursions (with Estimated Prices in ZAR)
Cunard offers excursions in every port, but here are the highlights we recommend (pricing based on average tours, per person):
Madeira: Levada Walk & Wine Tasting – approx. R1,400. A scenic hike through lush valleys ending with Madeira wine.
Tenerife: Mount Teide National Park Tour – approx. R1,600. Cable car rides and volcanic panoramas.
Cape Verde: Cultural Mindelo Tour – approx. R1,200. Music, markets, and history with a local guide.
Walvis Bay: Dune & Lagoon 4x4 Adventure – approx. R2,200. Sand dunes, desert vistas, and wildlife viewing.
Practical Costs for South Africans
If you’re based in South Africa, getting to Southampton is part of the adventure. Here’s what to expect:
Flights Johannesburg → London (Heathrow): from R12,000 – R14,500 return (economy).
Transfers Heathrow → Southampton cruise terminal: approx. R1,200 – R1,500 pp (coach or train).
Cruise fare (20 nights): from R51,050 pps (inside stateroom), with balcony staterooms from around R72,000 pps.
Onboard spending: Budget an extra R10,000 – R15,000 pp for drinks, spa, and excursions.
Total ballpark for a South African traveller: R75,000 – R90,000 pp for a 3-week luxury journey — including flights, transfers, and the cruise.
Who Should Book This Cruise?
Romantics & couples who love long sea days, formal evenings, and world-class dining.
Retired travellers who appreciate the pace and elegance of traditional cruising.
South Africans in search of a unique journey home — fly to London, enjoy the voyage, and arrive in Cape Town without jet lag.
Adventurers & culture-lovers who want to combine island exploration with the grandeur of ocean travel.
Packing Tips
Pack layers for cool Atlantic breezes plus summer clothes for Cape Town.
Formal wear for Cunard’s famous Gala Nights (men: dinner jackets, women: cocktail dresses).
Comfortable shoes for walking tours and excursions.
The Grand Finale: Cape Town
Imagine standing on deck as Table Mountain comes into view, the crisp sea air carrying the promise of South African summer. This is not just arrival — it’s a moment of triumph after 20 nights of exploration and relaxation.
Whether you disembark to begin a Cape Town holiday, reconnect with family, or start a safari adventure, this cruise offers one of the most memorable ways to travel between continents.
Final Word
For those who love travel with elegance and depth, the Queen Anne’s Southampton to Cape Town voyage (11–31 January 2026) is a journey of a lifetime. At a price point starting from R51,050 pps, it’s an accessible luxury that combines comfort, culture, and the timeless romance of the sea.
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