There is a growing trend of South African women choosing cruises over traditional holidays.
Image: Facebook: MSC
There’s a quiet revolution happening on the decks of South Africa’s cruise liners - and it’s led by women in oversized sunglasses, flowing maxi dresses and perfectly curled lashes.
What was once a holiday dominated by couples and families is fast becoming the ultimate girls’ getaway, and after being on a few local cruises over the past few years, I can confidently say: cruising may just be the easiest, most indulgent holiday a woman can take.
My first cruise, sailing from Cape Town to Durban back in 2011, felt like a fairly traditional affair with families and young children, couples clinking cocktails at sunset.
Fast forward to now, and the shift is unmistakable. Today, more than 70% of local cruisers are women - notably higher than the global average of around 60%. Even more striking is the size of these groups. It’s not unusual to see 10, 20, even 30 women travelling together - colleagues, church groups, lifelong friends - spanning generations from their twenties to their seventies.
And it’s easy to see the appeal. Cruising removes the stress that so often comes with planning a holiday. There are no grocery lists, no restaurant bookings, no negotiating over where to eat. Instead, days unfold effortlessly between buffet breakfasts, leisurely à la carte lunches and indulgent dinners, with snacks - think freshly made authentic Italian pizzas, burgers and late-night treats always within reach. It’s the kind of freedom that feels almost decadent.
Safety, too, plays a significant role. Onboard, there’s a sense of ease that allows women to truly unwind. Whether it’s a midnight stroll on deck or a solo coffee run at sunrise, the ship becomes a secure, self-contained world where relaxation comes naturally.
But perhaps the best part of cruising for women is the fashion. By day, it’s breezy kaftans and oversized hats; by night, the transformation is spectacular. High heels click along marble corridors, nails are immaculately done, and lashes flutter dramatically in the dining rooms.
South African women, it must be said, bring a particular flair - stylish, confident, and unapologetically glamorous.
Another drawcard is the financial clarity. Many women I’ve spoken to appreciate being able to book well in advance and pay off their trip over time. With optional extras like drinks packages or spa treatments added upfront, there are no surprises as everything (apart from duty-free shopping for perfumes and designer handbags) has been prepaid.
For mothers, cruising is great. Children are well catered for, with dedicated play areas and supervised kids’ clubs running from morning until late evening. It means mums can truly switch off - whether that’s at the spa, by the pool, or simply enjoying an uninterrupted conversation.
From my own experiences, it’s clear that cruising has evolved into more than just a holiday - it’s a shared experience, a space for connection, laughter and rest. At this rate, it wouldn’t be surprising if local cruises soon become almost entirely female affairs. And honestly, who could blame them?