Walvis Bay Cruise Port Guide: Shore Excursions, Food and Tips
Walvis Bay is one of the most rewarding cruise stops in southern Africa. Within minutes of stepping ashore, you can be out on the bay with dolphins and seals, paddling with seals at Pelican Point, or heading into the dunes where the desert meets the sea.
Best of all, you don’t have to go far to get started. Cruise ships dock at Namport, the main harbour, right next to the Walvis Bay Waterfront. As you come ashore, you pass through the Waterfront, where you’ll find tour operators, restaurants, a café, a bar and a shop, all within a few minutes’ walk of your ship.
Where Cruise Ships Dock
Cruise ships berth at the passenger jetty in the port of Walvis Bay, operated by Namport. The Waterfront at the Light Craft Harbour is right next door, so there’s no need for a taxi or shuttle to reach your tour, a meal or a coffee.
Directions: See the Waterfront on Google Maps
When Is Cruise Season?
The main cruise season in Walvis Bay usually runs from around November to March, during the southern hemisphere summer, although some ships call outside these months. In recent seasons, more ships have stayed overnight or longer, giving passengers time for full-day excursions and an evening at the Waterfront.
Before You Go Ashore
- Check your all-aboard time: Plan your day around it and allow a buffer.
- Bring a card and some cash: Most places accept cards. The local currency is the Namibian dollar, and the South African rand is also widely accepted.
- Dress in layers: Mornings on the coast are often cool and foggy, even in summer, and it’s cold on the water.
- Pack sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun is strong once the fog lifts.
- Book ahead: Tours fill up quickly on cruise days, especially when more than one ship is in port.
Shore Excursions From the Waterfront
Dolphin and seal cruise
The most popular shore excursion in Walvis Bay. Head out across the bay toward Pelican Point to see seals, dolphins and seabirds, with oysters often served on board. Most trips take around three hours, making them ideal for a short port call.
Book a cruise: Catamaran Charters | Mola Mola Safaris
Kayaking with seals
Paddle alongside curious Cape fur seals at Pelican Point. No experience needed.
Book a kayak tour: Pelican Point Kayaking
Pelican Point by 4×4
Drive out along the lagoon, past the pink salt pans, to the seal colony and the historic lighthouse.
Sandwich Harbour
A 4×4 adventure to where giant dunes meet the Atlantic. Best for longer port calls or overnight stays.
Flamingos and the salt pans
See thousands of flamingos on the lagoon and the colourful salt pans, both a short drive from the port.
See all tour operators: Tour operators at the Waterfront
If You Have 4 Hours
- Morning cruise: Take a dolphin and seal cruise straight from the Waterfront.
- Coffee: Warm up at La Vida Coffee House.
- Souvenirs: Pick up gifts at The Jettyshoppe on your way back to the ship.
If You Have 6 Hours
- Kayak or cruise: Paddle with seals at Pelican Point, or take a boat cruise.
- Lunch: Enjoy seafood at Anchors Restaurant or Dockside Seafood & Grill.
- Flamingos: Take a short taxi ride to the lagoon promenade to see the flamingos.
If You Have 8 Hours or More
- 4×4 adventure: Join a guided tour to Sandwich Harbour or Pelican Point.
- Late lunch: Head back to the Waterfront for a meal by the water.
- Sundowner: Finish with a drink at Pirates Wreck Sports Bar & Grill, if your all-aboard time allows.
If Your Ship Stays Overnight
An overnight call gives you time to do it all. Spend one day on the water and the other in the desert, or visit Swakopmund, about 30 minutes away. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at the Waterfront, just steps from your ship.
Eating and Drinking Near the Cruise Berth
Because the Waterfront is right next to the ship, it’s the easiest place for a meal ashore.
- Seafood and oysters: Anchors Restaurant and Dockside Seafood & Grill
- Coffee and light meals: La Vida Coffee House
- Drinks and sport: Pirates Wreck Sports Bar & Grill
Souvenirs
Browse Namibian gifts and keepsakes at The Jettyshoppe, a short walk from the ship.
Booking Through Your Ship or Locally
Excursions booked through your cruise line guarantee the ship won’t leave without you if the tour runs late. Booking directly with local operators at the Waterfront often means smaller groups and more flexibility. Because the tours leave from right next to the ship, getting back on time is easy. Always tell your operator your all-aboard time when you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do cruise ships dock in Walvis Bay?
Cruise ships dock at the Namport passenger berth in the main harbour, right next to the Walvis Bay Waterfront.
Can I walk from the cruise ship to the Waterfront?
Yes. The Waterfront is right next to the cruise berth, and passengers pass through it as they come ashore.
What is the best shore excursion in Walvis Bay?
A dolphin and seal cruise is the most popular choice. It leaves from the Waterfront, takes around three hours and fits easily into most port calls.
What currency is used in Walvis Bay?
The Namibian dollar. The South African rand is also widely accepted, and most businesses take cards.
Can I visit Swakopmund from the cruise port?
Yes. Swakopmund is about 30 minutes away by road. It’s best if you have a full day or an overnight stay.
When is cruise season in Walvis Bay?
The main season usually runs from around November to March, with some ships calling at other times of year.
Back to: Visiting the Walvis Bay Waterfront | Walvis Bay Travel Guide