At the launch of Tourism Month in the Northern Cape, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille announced that the Department of Tourism is finalising the national astro-tourism strategy to present to the Cabinet, aiming to position the country as a world-class astro-tourism destination.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is at the forefront of this emerging travel trend, offering South Africans unique opportunities to explore the night sky at sea in prime destinations around the world.
Olga Makarenko, NCL’s destination director, said that with astro-tourism a key global trend for 2024, it was wonderful to see the many astro-tourism opportunities South Africans could enjoy at home and that visitors could experience when exploring South Africa.
“For our South African guests, NCL is perfectly positioned to offer incredible stargazing experiences in all corners of the world. Travelling to isolated places without traffic or light pollution to witness the celestial spectacle is magical.”
She said guests could enjoy clear horizons, free of distractions, to admire the stars and planets, an astronomical phenomena such as meteor showers or the Northern Lights.
Here are 3 destinations showcasing NCL’s astro-tourism offerings for South Africans.
Mauritius
According to Makarenko, Mauritius offers some of the darkest skies in the world.
She said that NCL’s 12-day cruise aboard Norwegian Dawn includes stops in Port Louis (Mauritius), Pointe Des Galets (Reunion), Fort Dauphin (Madagascar), Maputo (Mozambique), Richard’s Bay, Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, and Cape Town.
“This itinerary provides multiple opportunities for stellar night-sky viewing, including the chance to spot constellations unique to the southern hemisphere.
“The ship’s top deck offers unobstructed views for stargazing, while expert-led astronomy sessions are available on select nights,” said Makarenko.
Hawaii
Makarenko said NCL’s Pride of America’s 7-day bucket list cruise – voted the best Hawaii itinerary for 15 consecutive years by Porthole Cruise magazine – offers access to prime stargazing locations.
The travel expert said the ship visits four islands, including overnight stays in Kahului (Maui) and Nawiliwili (Kauai) and guests can enjoy stargazing at Haleakala National Park on Maui, known for its exceptional dark sky conditions, or visit the renowned Mauna Kea Observatory on Big Island.
“The ship’s own star-viewing parties on deck provide additional opportunities to explore the night sky,” she said.
Norway and Iceland
Makarenko noted that the Norwegian Prima’s northern Europe itineraries coincided with peak aurora activity, offering travellers the chance to witness the Northern Lights in optimal conditions.
She said the 10- and 11-day cruises featured visits to ports including Geiranger, Bergen, and Alesund in Norway, and Akureyri, Isafjörður, and Reykjavik in Iceland.
On board, the Observation Lounge and the Ocean Boulevard provide perfect vantage points for aurora viewing. The ship also offers educational talks on the science behind the Northern Lights and photography workshops to capture the phenomenon.
“These cruises align with the growing interest in astro-tourism, providing travellers with opportunities to observe celestial phenomena away from light pollution, while also enjoying NCL’s award-winning amenities and service,” said Makarenko.