Richards Bay Cruises
Richards Bay is a deep water port in South Africa. It boasts wonderfully unspoilt beaches as well as great access to Johannesburg. A popular feature on both world cruises and cruises that visit the Indian Ocean, Richards Bay is regularly visited by cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Voyages of Discovery.
Richards Bay is a part of South Africa that has managed to evolve into a deft combination of modern industry and nature reserve over the last few decades. It sits on a thirty kilometre lagoon on the north western part of Kwa Zulu-Natal. The original name comes from the British naval commander of the area during the 1880's. As far back as 1935, this part of the region was recognised as a game reserve.
As well as being a stunning showcase for local wildlife in its own right, Richards Bay is also a convenient gateway to the old Zulu lands, as well as a short, two hour drive to Durban, with its stunning beaches ranging along the Indian Ocean that attracts surfers in droves all year round.
On the industrial front, the port is the largest single exporter of coal in the world, growing steadily since the first terminal was inaugurated back in 1976. The annual output is now a staggering seventy-six million tons.
But it is the nature reserve on land, inaugurated in 1945 that really attracts locals and visitors alike to the area. Richards Bay is one of the few places on earth where the pink-backed pelican can be witnessed, together with cormorants and flocks of flamingos. Out on the sparkling waters of the bay you might spot whales, or possibly even some humpback dolphins.
At one time, the area was a breeding ground for crocodiles and hippos and, as such, was prime hunting ground. On one occasion, a crocodile some 6.7 metres long was shot here.
If you would like more information on South Africa cruises, or would like to discuss a cruise, please call one of our Cruise Experts on 0800 008 6677