West Africa Cruise from Ghana to Angola

7 May

13 Night | Ghana to Angola West Africa Luxury Cruise

Set sail on an extraordinary 13-night cruise along the vibrant Atlantic coast aboard SH Diana, departing from Tema, Accra, and concluding in the cultural heart of Luanda, Angola. This immersive journey with Swan Hellenic invites you to discover the diverse soul of West Africa, from the bustling markets of Togo and Benin’s unique "stilt village" of Ganvie to the deep, lush rainforests of Gabon.

Whether you are witnessing an authentic voodoo ceremony, tracking lowland gorillas in their natural habitat, or standing on the rim of the breathtaking Diosso Gorge, every day offers a profound connection to the region’s heritage and natural beauty. With boutique, five-star comfort and expert-led talks throughout, this is more than a cruise; it is a sophisticated exploration of a coastline rarely seen by the modern traveller.

Should you wish to extend your journey and truly immerse yourself in the region, a 5% combo discount is available for guests booking a 26-night back-to-back voyage.

Highlights & Experience

Boutique Cruising Relax within SH Diana’s spacious, bespoke interiors, where floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views of the ever-changing West African coastline.
Expert-Led Coastal Walks Enjoy guided walks through historic quarters and coastal dunes, paced for observation and led by specialists who add meaningful context to every discovery.
Vibrant African Traditions Experience the authentic rhythm of life along the coast through local markets, traditional crafts, and music that reveal the true heart of these communities.

The SH Diana Experience

The SH Diana is the newest flagship of the Swan Hellenic fleet, designed to balance rugged expedition purpose with a refined, five-star elegance. Hosting just 192 guests, the ship offers a boutique atmosphere that feels intimate and calm, featuring expansive viewing decks and the signature "Swan’s Nest" observation platform. Your stateroom is a private sanctuary of Scandinavian design, complete with a personal balcony, an Illy espresso machine, and professional Nikon binoculars for spotting wildlife from the comfort of your room. Between shore landings, you can relax in the panoramic sauna, enjoy the heated outdoor pool, or indulge in world-class dining that celebrates both international and local flavours.

Itinerary

Tema serves as the gateway to Ghana’s fast-paced capital, Accra, a city that is simultaneously modern, historic, and culturally rich. European-built forts and the towering monuments of Black Star Independence Square offer a window into the nation's complex colonial past and its journey to sovereignty. In the historic neighborhood of Jamestown—a 17th-century fishing community—colonial architecture meets a thriving contemporary art scene. Here, the city's pulse is best felt at local "chop bars," where visitors can sample authentic flavors like waakye, a traditional dish of rice and beans served with an array of local sides.
Togo’s capital city is a captivating blend of voodoo traditions, colonial history, and beautiful Atlantic beaches. The National Museum offers a deep dive into the country's rich heritage through its collections of traditional pottery, ceremonial masks, and art. For a unique look into local customs, the Akodessewa Fetish Market displays an extensive array of voodoo talismans and animal skins, serving as a central hub for traditional healing and spiritual practices. The city's architectural landscape is dotted with colonial relics, including the German-built Sacred Heart Cathedral and the landmark 1960 Independence Monument, which stands as a symbol of the nation's liberation.
Benin’s vibrant port city is defined by its colonial legacy and the deep roots of Voodoo, the nation's state religion. As a former French colony, Cotonou retains a distinct European flair reflected in its architecture and local cuisine. The sprawling Dantokpa Market serves as the city's commercial heart, offering everything from local crafts to a dedicated section for sacred Voodoo items. Nearby lies Ganvié, a remarkable lakeshore village and the world’s largest town built entirely on stilts. In this "Venice of Africa," residents navigate between bamboo houses in traditional wooden canoes, maintaining a unique way of life on the water.
A day at sea offers a perfect opportunity to pause and let the world go by while enjoying panoramic ocean views from the observation decks. It is a time to mingle with fellow travelers to share experiences of the voyage or find a quiet moment in the library, which is well-stocked with reference books. For those looking to deepen their knowledge, onboard lectures provide expert insights into the region’s history and ecology, while professional photographers are available to help you perfect your skills and capture the journey ahead.
Santo António is a laid-back, compact capital with fewer than 3,000 inhabitants, holding the title of the smallest city in the world. Time seems to slow down in this dream-like setting, where pastel-colored buildings meet the fresh, salty sea air. A stroll through the quiet streets leads to the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, which houses a beautiful stone carving of St. Anthony, the city’s namesake.
The exploration extends to the northwest coast of the island at Macaco Beach. This secluded paradise is framed by lush vegetation and features pristine golden sands that slope into clear turquoise waters. It is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, offering a tranquil escape into the island’s untouched natural beauty.
The largest volcanic isle in the Gulf of Guinea, São Tomé is a tropical idyll of rainforests, beaches, and waterfalls. The capital city features 15th-century Portuguese architecture that reflects its colonial history, while the island's interior is dominated by lush jungle. These forests shelter a variety of monkeys and reptiles, as well as endemic bird species like the dwarf ibis and grosbeak, which find refuge on the slopes of the 2,024-meter São Tomé Peak.
Gabon is a true wilderness sanctuary, with over 70 percent of the country blanketed in the lush rainforests of the Congo Basin. The landscape is a dramatic mix of coastal lagoons, pristine beaches, and inland savannas. Beyond the nature, the region is rich in heritage, particularly through the Fang people, whose vibrant traditions of music and dance are woven into the very fabric of local life.
The Republic of Congo’s second city is a fascinating blend of European and African influences. Strolling through the lively "La Cité" district reveals traditional Congolese flavors and the bustling energy of the Grand Marché. Along the coast, the laid-back Côté Sauvage is lined with inviting waterfront restaurants. Just beyond the city limits, the landscape transforms at the stunning Diosso Gorge—a natural canyon carved in vibrant hues of pink, red, and orange.
Angola’s capital is a city in transition, blending a resilient history with a forward-looking spirit. Heritage landmarks like the 16th-century São Miguel Fortress and Gustave Eiffel’s Iron Palace stand as testaments to its complex past. In the historic upper town, Cidade Alta, you'll find charming pink colonial buildings alongside the Presidential Palace. For a taste of the modern city, the Ilha do Cabo offers a vibrant contrast with its trendy seaside restaurants and bars, marking a sophisticated end to the journey.

Note: Itineraries are subject to change.

Inclusions

Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk)
Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included - please enquire)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (where included - please enquire)
Complimentary onboard meals and room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages, available 24 hours per day
Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
Complimentary Standard WiFi, Onboard gratuities and port taxes
One selected shore excursion/expedition activity per port of call (kayaking not included – however this can be pre-booked)
In polar regions: Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka to take home and use of rubber boots for wet zodiac landings.

Exclusions

Kayaking, private tours, and bespoke Zodiac arrangements are available on request, and are subject to availability.
Beyond the one complimentary pre-selected excursion per port, further outings are available at an additional cost (excluding polar regions, where all Zodiac-based landings are included).
Premium wines and spirits from the bar menu are available at an additional charge.
Ship’s boutique purchases, laundry services, premium Wi-Fi upgrades, and spa treatments.
Required visas, comprehensive travel insurance, international and domestic flights, and any accommodation or transfers not explicitly stated in the itinerary.

Take advantage of the 2027 Reduced Rate from AU$19,365pp share twin Oceanview D4 Stateroom or Balcony D5 Stateroom from AU$21,465pp share twin based on the travel dates 22 September 2027 to 05 October 2027.

Exclusive Bonus - Receive USD300pp onboard credit, and a Gold Wi-Fi package valued at USD325pp when you book by 30 June 2026.

Prices per person share twin/double and are correct as of 04 May 26. All cruise and cabin types are subject to availability.

Terms & Conditions | Prices shown are based on per person costs in australian dollars, Special offers and exclusive bonuses available on new bookings made before 30 June 2026. For full terms & conditions please contact our Travel Experts for details.

Interested in this deal? Mention this Deal Code: 1200 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.

GhanaWest AfricaAngola

Karen McMahon