6.5 hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in East London for around 6.5 hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.
Tours & Experiences in East London
9 experiences available — book through our trusted partners
Addo Elephant Park multi-day Photo Safari
Experience the unique atmosphere and endless wilderness of the African bush with like-minded people in a small group.
On the first day, we will explore some of the famous sights of East London on our way to Addo Elephant Park. In the evening we will have a South African braai. This is a barbeque but carries an important cultural meaning for South Africans. For us, this means that we can’t miss a good braai.
We will spend the full second day of the trip in Addo Elephant Park. It is the third-largest National Park in South Africa and has recently become the only park in the world that is home to Africa's “Big 7”: Buffalo, Lion, Elephant, Leopard and Rhinoceros, Great White Sharks and Southern Right Whales.
On the third day, we will explore the Sundays River and you will have the opportunity to join a river cruise or do some sandboarding.
Your guide will teach you Clicks from our native dialogue IsiXhosa.
Free cancellation
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East London Airport Private Shuttle to Chintsa
My name is Thobela, I am a certified tourist guide and a very experienced driver with a passenger transport permit. My vehicle is a spacious, well-mainted VW transporter and has full passenger liability insurance.
Free cancellation
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Private Beach Lodge and Giraffe Interaction for Cruise ship Guest
The incredible Beach lodge is truly beautiful with breathtaking views, great hosts and staff; and a place to unwind and feel at one with nature. Super food and surroundings allow you to really soak up the African Atmosphere and tranquility in peace.
If it's swimming in the pool or ocean, walking along the miles of golden beach or just relaxing around the resort, you will feel reenergized at the end of your short stay.
After all of this, you get to top it off by meeting ABBY the giraffe.
This really puts size into perspective when you are up close and personal with him, as well you being able to appreciate an experience that is unique and that you will talk about for years to come.
This is a small intimate tour so that you don't feel like just a number.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Traditional Cuisine in the Emerald Vale Brewery
A cultural, traditional and cuisine experience whilst emerged in wonderful nature and talents of local Craftsman and Artists.
You can do some handicrafts, make your own souvenir and marvel at nature on the short hike or drive. The brewmaster will be happy to take you behind the scenes and give you an insight into the production of the beers and iced tea. If you want, you can head to the vegetable garden to see what is grown locally. Just make sure you are back when the school choir pays a visit - the traditional songs and dances will give you goosebumps! A source of
immense pride, as they add a touch of cultural brilliance to your experience.
Of course, typical snacks and the local drinks will be provided for your physical well-being.
A wonderful trip to discover East London from a different perspective and really great day out on the East Coast of South Africa's Sunshine Coastal region.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
East London City Tour
Let’s explore East London’s city centre and its many historical sites, including City hall, the German settler monument and Hero’s park. You will enjoy the esplanade beach front and the harbour view. Further highlights of the tour include visiting East London museum, Nahoon footprints educational centre, Biko bridge and a visit at a shop of locally made crafts.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
3hrs Cruise Experience at Nahoon River
A really unique and fun tour.
Experience nature as we cruise the Nahoon River Estuary with it's abundance of bird life as well as enjoying local foods, beers, wine and soft drinks before getting to spend time lapping up the sun on the golden beach of Nahoon. With the warm Indian Ocean, you can swim all year round. spend time exploring the area, swimming, bathing or just walking the km's of beach and relaxing in the South African sun.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
From East London Wild Coast Half Day Trip with Brewery Tour
Experience the magic of South Africa’s Wild Coast on this unforgettable full-day adventure. Depart from your harbour or hotel and enjoy a scenic orientation drive through East London, passing iconic highlights such as Heroes Park, the German Settlers Monument, and the vibrant beachfront. Journey through lush outskirts towards the Wild Coast, with the option to enjoy a biking segment and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.
Savour a guided tasting at Emerald Vale Brewery, followed by a relaxed lunch before heading to the pristine Chintsa Beach—perfect for unwinding and soaking in coastal beauty. Lifeguards are seasonal and not always on duty. Browse local craft markets for unique handmade goods or arrange delivery for later. End your day with a charming village walk before returning comfortably to your starting point.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Chintsa Community Experience and Beach Escape
Discover the vibrant Chintsa community on a meaningful journey that blends culture, connection, and impact. Start with a guided walk through the village, exploring both affluent areas and the township, while learning about local history, schools, and youth projects. Visit Onwaba Drop-In Centre, meet Temi, help prepare and serve meals to children, and spend quality time interacting with them. Later, relax at Crawford's Beach Lodge, enjoy the beach, or try pottery at Hay clay Pottery and Painting Studio. This immersive experience offers a rare chance to connect with the community, make a positive impact, and enjoy the coastal beauty of the region.
Free cancellation
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Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in East London
Want to capture your amazing honeymoon? Family vacation while the kids are still little? Your perfect couples retreat from everyday busy life? A solo trip without asking strangers to take pictures of you? Stop searching, we got you here!
We are the largest network of local vacation photographers in the world! Besides East London, we operate in over 700 destinations worldwide! We always make sure that every special moment of each client is captured well.
We believe in our service and quality of our photos so much that we even offer a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for your photo shoot. Which means, if you don’t like the result of your photo shoot, you can contact us within 7 days and claim your money back!
So what are you waiting for? Become one of our hundreds of happy customers by treating yourself to this special experience! Your family and friends will love the result too!
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When to Visit East London
Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes
Winter Season
Dec – Feb
8,521 estimated passengers across 4 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Spring Season
Mar – May
4,688 estimated passengers across 3 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
3,750 estimated passengers across 3 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Cruise Lines Visiting East London
5 cruise lines. View full breakdown →
AIDA Cruises Cruises (38)
Phoenix Reisen Cruises (2)
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Cruises (1)
Silversea Cruises Cruises (1)
Viking Cruises Cruises (1)
Why Book with Blue Seas Tours?
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The lowest in the industry. Other platforms charge 20–30%. We charge 1%.
Money Stays Local
99% goes directly to the local operator. Plus 25% of our profits fund island farming through Ground Swell.
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