Silversea Luxury Cruises To RICHARDS BAY

Depart the quayside and travel in a northerly direction along the national road. Arrive at St Lucia and continue to the Bhangazi gate of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

You start your game drive in the Eastern Shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a section of South Africa's 1st World Heritage Site. This Game Reserve is divided by some of the second highest vegetated dunes in the world with Zebra, Kudu, Buffalo, White Rhino, Leopard, Wildebeest, Nyala, Elephant, Warthog, Wild Dog, Hyenas. Some of these can be spotted from the open game drive vehicles, and an educational overview of the Park will be given by a qualified tour guide.

Continue to Mission Rocks, a rocky beach 12km's into the Park, to enjoy some refreshments.

Continue to Cape Vidal where you might have the opportunity to do some snorkelling, if the tide and ocean conditions permit. While enjoying the beach and ocean, a barbeque lunch will be prepared. Return to iSimangaliso Wetland Park gate and re-board the vehicles for your transfer back to the quayside in Richards Bay.

Depart the quayside and drive along the National Highway towards Mtubatuba, and then continue north to Dumazulu, which means "Thundering Zulu".

Explore the culture and traditions of the Zulu tribe during this unique and informative visit to Dumazulu Traditional Village.

The Dumazulu Traditional Village is home to more than 50 Zulu residents that form part of a living museum. It is the largest Zulu village of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and the only Zulu village to be opened up to tourism by King Goodwill Zwelithini, who placed the Royal Zulu stamp of approval on the objectives and authenticity of Dumazulu.

Upon arrival, you will be introduced to your guides, who will invite you into the chief's homestead, or kraal. Here, you have the opportunity to observe and learn more about the various Zulu traditions, including basket-weaving, spear- and shield-making, beadwork, pot-making, sangoma bone-throwing, and spectacular Zulu dancing.

Return transfer to Richards Bay.

Depart the quayside and travel to Emdoneni Cat Rehabilitation Centre.

The aim of the Emdoneni Cat Rehabilitation Centre is to care for wild Cheetahs, Serval Cats, African Wildcats and Caracal (Lynx), which have been orphaned or injured in the wild and are in need of care and rehabilitation. There is intention to breed where possible and release the offspring back into their natural habitat.

On arrival at Emdoneni, embark on a guided tour and learn more about these fascinating creature's habits and the conservation efforts to save them.

Re-board the coach for your return transfer to Richards Bay.

Embrace the spectacular beauty of Lake Mzingazi in a relaxing new way during this memorable, full-day golfing excursion at the Richards Bay Country Club.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute transfer to the Richards Bay Golf Club. Situated along the shores of beautiful Lake Mzingazi, this approximately 5,577-yard (about 5,100-metre) Par-71 golf course is among the most scenic and challenging layouts in Zululand. Co-designed by Gary Player, it was upgraded by Peter Matkovich in 2007.

Upon arrival, register at the Pro Shop, then warm up on the driving range before commencing your 18-hole round of golf. At the conclusion of your golf outing, commence the approximately 30-minute transfer back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of activity. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable golf attire, soft spikes and sun protection are recommended; jeans and/or rugby shorts are not permitted. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. The following are not included in the cost of the tour and is at guests own expense and paid directly at the Golf Club: Bucket of Practice Range Balls ZAR 30 for 50 balls, Sleeve of New Balls: ZAR 75 - ZAR 150, Caddy Fee if Available: ZAR 150 caddy and ZAR 100 for spotter, Ride-Along Fee for Guest accompanying Golfer (will not golf): ZAR 180 per person per cart.

Discover the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve during this panoramic, full-day game-drive excursion.

Richards Bay, National Road, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive north along the National Road en route to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Truly one of the most fascinating parts of Africa, this expansive reserve preserves the wildlife of Zululand, along with the beauty, charm and tradition of its natural surrounds. Upon arrival at the Memorial Gate and after a brief comfort stop, receive your safety and tour instructions, then begin your guided safari adventure aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle.

Guided Game-Drive, White Rhinos, Abundant Bird and Animal Species

Your panoramic, approximately two-hour game-drive traverses the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. The reserve has become renowned for its small population of rare, white rhino, along with a spectacular variety of bird and animal species, including the elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, cheetah, mountain reedbuck, kudu and warthog. During your game drive, you may have the opportunity to encounter many of these beautiful animals from up-close. At the end of your game drive, return to Memorial Gate. After a comfort stop, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of off-road driving and a minimal amount of walking for approximately 109 yards (about 100 metres), at times over uneven, bumpy, gravel, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the vehicles. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a light, weatherproof jacket, and a camera from the ship. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. The distance between the pier and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Guests are not permitted to use cellular phones during the game drives. Guests are not permitted to speak loudly, nor stand up on the game drive vehicles, as this disturbs the animals. Smoking is not permitted during the game drives. Guests must carry their passports. The open-air, 4WD safari vehicles utilised on this tour are not covered, and guests are therefore exposed to the elements. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife and bird sightings are not guaranteed. Due to the prevailing weather conditions and movement of dangerous wildlife on the Game Reserve, the programme contents and sequence are subject to change by the lodge management without prior notice. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Depart from the quayside in Richard's Bay and drive by coach via Empangeni to Shakaland, and Duma Zulu Village. Shakaland was built initially for Shaka Zulu, a TV mini-series about King Shaka that was made in South Africa in the mid-1980s, but the attention to detail by the set designers meant there was little work needed to transform it into an authentic cultural experience.

Upon arrival you are met by a Zulu guide and served a welcome refreshment. Then you are invited to relive the excitement and romance of the days of King Shaka, the King of the Zulus.

Walking through the village, you will see a variety of displays including Zulu women creating beadwork, weaving mats, sculpting pottery, baking bread and brewing Zulu beer. The Zulu men will show you how to make a spear & shield and how to build a Zulu 'beehive' grass hut. Your guide will interpret the daily activities and you will have the opportunity to view a short audio-visual presentation.

Next, you are invited into the Chief's Hut where Zulu dancers will perform rhythmic drum dances and tribal members will recreate a ritual by the Sangoma (traditional healer).

Following this performance, a traditional Zulu buffet dinner will be provided at a restaurant overlooking the Umhlatuze Lake.

Before re-boarding your coach for the return drive to Richard's Bay and your awaiting ship, some leisure time is available to explore the village on your own and to visit the local curio shops.

Please Note: Most of the tour takes place outdoors and involves a moderate amount of walking. This tour is not recommended for guests who have walking limitations. It is Zulu custom for young, unmarried women to go topless. No photographs or videos may be taken of the Sangoma (traditional healer). The village has mostly gravel ground, which can be slightly muddy after heavy rain. Guests are advised to wear flat, comfortable walking shoes, sun hats, sun block & sunglasses.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 5 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Richards Bay at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking driver/guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 5 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Take a journey in to a haven for gigantic hippopotamus and fierce crocodiles during this half-day boat cruise on Lake St. Lucia.

South Africa's abundant bird and wildlife species are yours to discover during this scenic cruise at the St. Lucia Wetland Park - now known as iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Depart the pier for the drive north to the beautiful iSimangaliso Wetland. Upon arrival, embark your boat for a leisurely two-hour cruise on Lake St Lucia. Along the way see mangrove swamps, prolific birdlife, oyster banks with stories of days gone by, the second highest vegetated Dunes in the World.

You may also catch sight of the basking and nesting sites of the Nile crocodile and the hippos that make their homes in the estuary - the greatest confluence of crocodiles and hippos in South Africa.

Following your cruise, disembark your boat and re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves little walking but over uneven terrain from the coach to the dock, with a few big steps to negotiate to get down to and into the boat. It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. Wear comfortable clothing and bring protection from the sun. The drive from the pier to iSimangaliso Wetland Park is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Due to the natural habitat, wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The bottom deck is covered; the top deck is open. The boat is not for the exclusive use of Silversea.