Cape Town wins Africa’s Leading Cruise Port award again ahead of bumper season

Cape Town has once again been recognised as a top destination for cruise travellers, with the Port of Cape Town winning the title of Africa’s Leading Cruise Port at the 2024 World Travel Awards. 

The recognition supports the city’s position as the key gateway for cruise tourism on the African continent, and the primary cruise port in South Africa. 

Cape Town is a growing must-visit destination for international cruise lines and their passengers, who are drawn to the city’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, and is currently experiencing a boom in cruise traffic on the back of the Red Sea crisis.

In addition to its cruise port victory, Cape Town was also named Africa’s Leading City Destination for the fourth consecutive year, and its iconic Cape Grace Hotel was named Africa’s Leading Luxury Hotel, while the One&Only Cape Town was named Africa’s Leading Luxury Resort. 

Hotel Verde, known for its commitment to sustainability, was recognized as Africa’s Leading Green Hotel. Additionally, Go2Africa, a luxury tour operator based at the V&A Waterfront, was honored as Africa’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator.

Cape Town Tourism hailed these accolades as evidence of the city’s continued appeal for international visitors, particularly those seeking luxury, adventure, and culture. 

“Winning Africa’s Leading City Destination for the fourth year running, along with the recognition of the Port of Cape Town as the top cruise port, shows the outstanding work being done to position Cape Town as a premier travel hub,” said Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism.

Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, said the city’s tourism sector was working hard to grow Cape Town’s global prominence, including those arriving by sea. “To all in the travel industry, especially those at the Port of Cape Town, thank you for making our city stand out,” he said.

The awards come at a time when Cape Town’s cruise tourism industry is seeing increased demand, with more cruise ships scheduled to dock at the Port of Cape Town this year than that any other time in its history. 

Cape Town’s port and cruise terminal at the V&A Waterfront remains a central part of the city’s tourism appeal, serving as the first introduction for many travellers to the beauty and hospitality the city offers.