Category Archives: Cruise ships

Durban Shipwatch: Avalon

Posted on 05/02/2015 by JA

When we arrived in Durban in March 1992, I was very happy to see the Avalon alongside. Recently retired from her St Helena role, she was in Durban under the name Avalon, and theoretically starting a series of voyages carrying … Continue reading →

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Durban Shipwatch: Vistafjord

Posted on 05/02/2015 by JA

Visited March 1990 in Durban. I was not really impressed by her though. The ship visit was a bit of a damp squib too,  and the weather was not particularly nice either. She stayed overnight, and we went down to … Continue reading →

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Cruise Ship Gallery

Posted on 06/04/2014 by JA
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The sinking of the Oceanos

Posted on 16/03/2014 by JA

The sinking of the Oceanos off Coffee Bay in 1991 would have serious repercussions for our already struggling cruising industry in South Africa. However, it also brought change and helped to create a whole new dynamic operator who has since … Continue reading →

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The Star Ferry Page (2)

Posted on 21/12/2013 by JA

Continuing with the Star Ferry Page   The vessels are double ended with a wheelhouse on either end and a central engine room with an open lower deck (cheaper) and an enclosed upper (more expensive).   The debate is out … Continue reading →

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Returning home on Symphony

Posted on 18/12/2013 by JA

Returning home on the Symphony 25-03-97 to 28-03-97.  Cape Town-Durban  My second voyage on the Symphony happened the day after I had sailed to Cape Town on the Oriana. I had been fortunate enough to be able to book Symphony … Continue reading →

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A voyage on the Oriana

Posted on 18/12/2013 by JA

 A VOYAGE ON THE ORIANA.  22-03-97 to 24-03-97. Durban-Cape Town The announcement that Canberra would be replaced by a new ship was greeted with much dismay by everybody. The concept vessel shown to the media was criticised as being too … Continue reading →

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To sea on the Rhapsody

Posted on 17/12/2013 by JA

A cruise on the Rhapsody 26-03-96 to 30-03-96. Durban-Bazaruto Faced with the seemingly plethora of cruise ships visiting our shores, Rudi and I were faced with two possible affordable vessels. Namely Russ or Rhapsody. Of course there has to be … Continue reading →

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Symphony Maiden Arrival

Posted on 17/12/2013 by JA

The Maiden Arrival of the Symphony. 12-03-95 to 14-03-95. Durban-Durban  The loss of the Achille Lauro in 1994, left a sizable gap in the cruising market in South Africa. Fortunately, local agent Starlight Cruises and StarLauro were quick to fill … Continue reading →

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A voyage to Tristan Da Cunha

Posted on 16/12/2013 by JA

A Voyage to Tristan Da Cunha. 23-01-93 – 05-02-93. Cape Town to Tristan Da Cunha. To skip the updates and just read about my voyage on the RMS please use the down arrow. **Update 22/09/2020 The St Helena has now … Continue reading →

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