Port information & tips for Baia dos Tigres
Ilha dos Tigres is a fascinating hidden gem on the coast of Angola, taking travelers into a forgotten world between the desert and the ocean. The former peninsula captivates with its mystical silence and the surreal backdrop of an abandoned ghost town, framed by the Atlantic and the golden dunes of the Namib. Highlights include the ruins of the fishing settlement with the São João church, the striking Farol da Ponta dos Tigres lighthouse, and the rich wildlife featuring seal colonies and pelicans. Cruise ships anchor in the protected Baía dos Tigres and transport guests directly to the natural shore by tender boat or zodiac. Thanks to its location, the historical center of the ghost island is directly and easily accessible on foot from the landing point.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
Ilha dos Tigres is not a classic cruise port, but a remote and uninhabited island off the southern coast of Angola, which is primarily visited as part of expedition cruises. Access is via Zodiacs, as there is no traditional port infrastructure or terminals.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region typically takes place via Luanda International Airport (NBJ or LAD) in Angola. From there, there are convenient domestic flights to the nearest airport, Namibe (MSZ), also known as Welwitschia Mirabilis Airport. The flight from Luanda to Namibe takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes. Due to the long flight time, international guests are recommended to arrive in Angola at least one day before the start of the expedition.
Transfer & Expedition
A further transfer is required from Namibe Airport (MSZ), which is located about 7 kilometers from Namibe city center. The onward journey to the coast, from where Ilha dos Tigres is accessible, usually takes place in specially equipped 4x4 vehicles as part of an organized expedition. The crossing to the island itself is then carried out by boat or Zodiac, often as a so-called wet landing on the beaches. The route to Baía dos Tigres from the coastal town of Tômbua (south of Namibe) is a challenging drive along the coast that is only possible at low tide.
Pre-Cruise Stay
Due to the complex logistical requirements and the remoteness of Ilha dos Tigres, a pre-cruise stay in the city of Namibe (formerly Moçâmedes) is recommended. Namibe offers various accommodation options, including hotels such as the Hotel Chik Chik Namibe or the Viva Executive Hotel Namibe, which ensure comfort and hospitality. This allows for relaxed preparation for the upcoming expedition and flexible adjustment to possible weather-related changes to the itinerary.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, 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 voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
