Port information & tips for Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay is the fascinating gateway to the barren beauty of Namibia and a jewel on Africa's rugged Atlantic coast. The port city impresses with the charming contrast between the deep blue ocean and the endless, golden-yellow dunes of the Namib Desert, while offering a unique blend of maritime adventure and untouched nature. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the famous Walvis Bay Lagoon with its thousands of flamingos, the spectacular Dune 7, and the seal colonies at Pelican Point. Cruise ships dock at the modern Namport Dedicated Passenger Terminal, from which the city center, about three kilometers away, can be reached quickly and comfortably thanks to available shuttles and taxis.
Walvis Bay is Namibia's most important deep-sea port and welcomes cruise guests in a modern terminal building directly on the Atlantic. Thanks to the good connection to the national trunk road network and the nearby regional airport, arrival in the desert city is comfortable.
Airplane
Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) is located around 15 kilometers east of the port and is served via connections from Windhoek (WDH) or Johannesburg (JNB). Travelers from the DACH region ideally use the direct connections from Frankfurt to Windhoek and continue their journey with a short domestic flight or an organized transfer to the ship.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Walvis Bay Airport, you can reach the terminal comfortably by taxi or pre-booked shuttle in about 20 minutes travel time. If landing at Windhoek International Airport, many cruise lines also offer coordinated bus transfers, which take guests directly to the port in a journey of around five hours via the well-developed B2 national road.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight duration from Europe, arriving at least one day before embarkation with an overnight stay in Walvis Bay or nearby Swakopmund is recommended. The hotels in the region are prepared for cruise guests and also assist in organizing short trips to the famous dunes of Langstrand or the Walvis Bay Lagoon before boarding.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Walvis Bay is Namibia's most important deep-sea port and welcomes cruise guests in a modern terminal building directly on the Atlantic. Thanks to the good connection to the national trunk road network and the nearby regional airport, arrival in the desert city is comfortable.
Airplane
Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) is located around 15 kilometers east of the port and is served via connections from Windhoek (WDH) or Johannesburg (JNB). Travelers from the DACH region ideally use the direct connections from Frankfurt to Windhoek and continue their journey with a short domestic flight or an organized transfer to the ship.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Walvis Bay Airport, you can reach the terminal comfortably by taxi or pre-booked shuttle in about 20 minutes travel time. If landing at Windhoek International Airport, many cruise lines also offer coordinated bus transfers, which take guests directly to the port in a journey of around five hours via the well-developed B2 national road.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight duration from Europe, arriving at least one day before embarkation with an overnight stay in Walvis Bay or nearby Swakopmund is recommended. The hotels in the region are prepared for cruise guests and also assist in organizing short trips to the famous dunes of Langstrand or the Walvis Bay Lagoon before boarding.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the journey: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
From the terminal in Walvis Bay, well-organized logistics allow you to reach the natural wonders of the Namibian coast with ease. The connections are efficiently designed, allowing you to start your shore excursion directly.
Shuttle Service
Most cruise lines provide comfortable shuttle buses that take you directly from the ship to the city center or the Walvis Bay Waterfront. This service is very reliable and also brings you to the central meeting points for local boat tours within a few minutes.
Taxis and Private Transfer Services
Official taxis and licensed drivers are available directly at the port exit for individual trips. You can quickly reach the famous lagoon with its flamingos or nearby Swakopmund while enjoying the flexibility of private transport directly to your desired destinations.
On Foot
A walk from the port area toward the promenade and the marina takes about 25 to 30 minutes. The path is level and offers you the opportunity to enjoy the maritime atmosphere and the fresh sea air immediately after leaving the ship.
To make the most of your stay in Walvis Bay, it is recommended to combine the fascinating wildlife of the lagoon with the impressive desert landscapes of the immediate surroundings.
Walvis Bay Waterfront & Lagoon
The lagoon, located directly at the harbor, is a paradise for bird lovers and, thanks to numerous flamingos and pelicans, offers a picturesque backdrop for relaxed walks along the well-maintained shore promenade.
Dune 7
Only a short drive from the city center rises the imposing Dune 7, which, as the highest dune in the region, grants a breathtaking panoramic view over the endless expanse of the Namib Desert and is perfect for impressive souvenir photos.
Swakopmund
The charming coastal town of Swakopmund, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and lively cafe culture, is an ideal destination for a relaxed cultural excursion along the scenic coastal road.
Swakopmund Old Town & Jetty
The charming coastal town of Swakopmund is easily reachable by taxi or shuttle in approximately thirty minutes and offers a fascinating blend of German colonial history, striking architecture, and relaxed seaside flair. A walk through the historic center leads you past landmarks such as the Woermannhaus directly to the iconic Jetty 1905, which extends far into the Atlantic and offers a spectacular view of the coast. Thanks to its numerous inviting cafes and small handicraft markets, the town is perfect for a cultural tour and also features a well-maintained promenade for strolling. Ideally, start your excursion early in the morning to explore the town before the larger crowds of visitors arrive, and plan your return journey at least ninety minutes before departure to return to the ship on time and relaxed.
The journey back to the Port of Walvis Bay is very safe thanks to the clear infrastructure and can be easily planned using various means of transport.
Cruise Line Shuttle Service
Most cruise lines offer a regular shuttle bus that takes you directly from the Walvis Bay Waterfront or the city center back to the ship. These buses are the easiest option and depart from clearly marked stops, ensuring you arrive at the pier on time and without detours.
Taxi and Private Transfers
Licensed taxis are available at all times at the busy Waterfront and in front of central hotels like the Protea Hotel Pelican Bay for the short trip to the port gate. The drivers will take you quickly to the terminal's security check, and thanks to the short distances within the city, you will have plenty of time for a relaxed conclusion to your excursion.
Orientation at the Port Gate
The port area is easily visible from a distance due to the prominent cranes of the container terminal and serves as an ideal landmark. Since walking on the actual port grounds is often restricted for security reasons, simply use the available port transfers from the guarded main gate to reach your berth comfortably.
