Crystal Cruises Adds Africa Safari to Africa Cruises

August 18, 2009 – From lions to leopards, white rhinos to wildebeest, a record number of safaris will highlight African wildlife with Crystal Cruises’ 2010 World Cruise. Eighteen Crystal Overland Adventures allow adventurous guests to closely encounter Africa’s “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo – throughout Namibia, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Kenya. The two- to five-night adventures take guests from port to some of the most celebrated game reserves in Africa, and then return them to the ship in another port. The 21-day cruise aboard Crystal Serenity departs Cape Town for Mumbai February 9, 2010, the third segment of the epic 108-day World Cruise.

Safaris include:
* Okavango Delta, Botswana – A haven for rare species, this is the only place in Botswana where endangered white rhinos can be seen in their natural habitat;

* Boulders Lodge at Singita Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa – The Singita Sabi Sand Reserve offers intimate views of leopard, zebra, elephant and giraffe living in the African bush, as well as indulgences like reflexology and hot stone therapy.

* Mala Mala Game Reserve, Rattrays – Sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, Mala Mala’s spotlight safaris showcase the nocturnal animals on their nightly hunts;

* Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara, Nairobi – Along with the vast 102-square-mile crater, guests will visit elephant and rhino orphanages established in Nairobi National Park, and Lake Manyara for a close look at hippos and giraffes;

“Each distinctly unique, the safari excursions are carefully planned at dusk and dawn to allow guests to explore the region’s wildlife in profoundly authentic ways,” says John Stoll, director, land programs. “Whether it’s watching the animals migrate from Tanzania to Kenya or lions’ nightly hunts, guests can immerse themselves in the African wild.”

The voyage visits Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Zanzibar, Tanzania; Mombasa, Kenya; Malé, Republic of Maldives; Mahé/Victoria, Seychelles; Cochin, Marmagao and Mumbai, India. Cruise fares start at $13,190 per person, double occupancy, and include a $500 per person All Inclusive – As You Wish shipboard spending credit. The Crystal Overland Adventure safaris are available from $3,055 per person, double occupancy, while partial day safaris start at $155 per person.