Rated 4.5/5 star by thousands of happy cruisers
Unlock Africa's Secret Paradise: Exciting MSC Cruises to Pomene
Thrilling, budget-friendly adventures!
Experience Mozambique's magical beaches.
Capture moments on MSC's sun-kissed decks.
Unwind in stylish accommodations
Unspoiled Exploration and Luxury Onboard Experience
- Unspoiled: Experience the untouched allure of Pomene
- Beachside Bliss: Bask on Mozambique's magical beaches
- Culinary Luxury: Relish in MSC's exquisite dining
- Comprehensive: All meals & entertainment onboard and ashore.
- Seamless Transfers: Ship-to-island transfers included
4.5/5 by thousands of happy cruisers
Where is Pomene?
Located on Mozambique's coast, Pomene Archipelago is a hidden paradise nestled between the Indian Ocean and a lush estuary 605 km north of Maputo and 170 km south of Vilanculos. First inhabited by local tribes and later attracting explorers with its stunning beaches and natural reserves, Pomene remains largely unspoiled due to its remoteness. Visitors are captivated by its history of exploration, pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the unique ecosystem of the surrounding mangrove forests.
Getting from the ship
The ship anchors a couple of miles off the coast of Pomen. Passengers will travel for approximately 30 minutes to the island by tender, which is similar to a speedboat that carries approximately 150 passengers. Guests are required to get a disembarkation tender ticket with a number on it from one of the lounges prior to leaving the ship
With one day in port
In the morning, go straight through the main area on the other side. On the beach turn right walk a bit and enjoy swimming and sunbathing in the calm waters away from the crowd. Indulge in a delicious lunch buffet with live music. Browse the vibrant local market for unique Mozambican souvenirs after lunch. Have another swim after lunch and take the tender back to the ship.
Fast Facts
Currency: Rand (Zar) or USD ($)
Language: English
Visas: On arrival for most countries - double check with us for your specifics
Wi-fi: no wi-fi
Money: Pay with your cruise card at the bar
Fun Facts: It is so big that you can easily hide from the crowd
About MSC Cruises to Pomene
MSC developed Pomene into a resort-like paradise, complete with a pool overlooking the estuary and beachside thatched umbrellas.
Enjoy activities like snorkeling tours, underwater excursions, and quad visits to the old Pomene Hotel ruins. For relaxation, rent a private cabana, sip cocktails on the beach, and take a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean.
Unwind at the beach or join the pool party
Choose your own adventure in Pomene. Opt for a serene day lounging on the pristine white sands, soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves. Alternatively, join the lively party by the pool, where a DJ sets the upbeat tempo, making it an ideal spot for those looking for fun and excitement. It's your vacation, enjoy it your way!
Explore Pomene nature reserve
In Pomene, there's no shortage of activities for the energetic. A serene hour-long walk (2000 kilometres of coastline) around the region offers solitude and stunning views. Why not take a leisurely stroll on Pomene's less-traveled side and have the spectacular beaches all to yourself? This unspoiled paradise is our favorite part.
Activities on Pomene
Pomene Nature reserve and Mangrove
Explore Pomene's mangroves on an excursion to its scenic bay. Nestled between the Indian Ocean and mangrove waters, this fairy-tale-like forest is part of the Pomene Nature Reserve. Its remote location preserves its wild beauty, making it a tranquil haven for nature lovers.
Code: POM01
Quad biking adventure to the Old Hotel
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping quad tour to the ruins of the 1964 Pomene Hotel. Guided by an expert, witness stunning views of Ponta da Barra Falsa and Pomene Bay, possibly viewing blowholes at high tide. Don't forget your camera for breathtaking panoramas!
Code: POM09
Pomene Hotel Ruins Transfer
Travel back to 1964 and explore the ruins of the once-famous Pomene Hotel, a relic of Mozambique's colonial past. Established after Vic Preen and his son discovered this paradise, its development was spurred by a shipwreck in 1960. Abandoned in 1974 due to civil war, its remnants echo with past holidaymakers' joys.
Code: POM02
Stand up paddle board
Grab a paddleboard and enjoy the sparkling waters of Pomene Bay. Take in the stunning views from the warm Indian Ocean waves, relax and recharge while exploring the colorful reef life and friendly dolphins that call this part of Mozambique home.
Code: POM03
Sea kayak rental
Experience the thrill of kayaking, revealing the ocean's hidden wonders and diverse life. From sea grass to sea birds, it's a captivating journey on our super-stable, maneuverable kayaks, designed for one or two paddlers.
Code: POM04
Mask & snorkel rental
Curious about the underwater wonders of this beautiful island? Rent a mask and snorkel for your personal snorkeling expedition. Explore at your own pace and discover what lies beneath these pristine waters. Enjoy an hour of underwater adventure!
Code: POM08
Pomene Beach Cabana experience
Imagine a day at Pomene in your private cabana, complete with bottled water and tropical snacks upon arrival. Spend the entire day savoring the fine sand, sun, sea, and shade at your own pace.
Code: POM11 / Price for 6 guests
Exclusive beach lounger
Experience Pomene's "Exclusive Beach Lounge" with special services like a private bar, a complimentary soft drink, and a fruit skewer. Enjoy a beach hut with a sun lounger set up just for you.
Code: POM13
Beach umbrella rental
Experience an extraordinary day at Pomene's stunning beach, with breathtaking views and pristine sand. Rent beach umbrellas from the Shore Excursions Centre or Excursion Desk at the swimming beach at a great price.
Code: POM14
Pomene estuary snorkelling
Join a guided snorkeling tour in Pomene's calm, protected waters. Explore the estuary's rock reef and mangrove habitat, home to stunning marine life. After a 15-20 minute boat ride, dive 3-5 meters deep using provided equipment like mask, snorkel, fins, and vest.
Code: POM06
Pedalo boat rental
Hire a pedal boat for an enjoyable exploration of Pomene's coastline. This fun, recreational activity is perfect for families or friends and offers a unique perspective. These four-seater boats use a paddle wheel propelled by pedaling, ensuring fun for everyone.
Code: POM05
Popular Itineraries from Durban
4 Nights to Pomene
Day 1 | Monday - Ship leaves at 18:00 from Durban
Day 2 | Tuesday - At Sea - enjoy the ship
Day 3 | Wednesday - Enjoy the Day on Pomene
Day 4 | Thursday - At Sea - enjoy the ship
Day 5 | Friday - Back to Durban at 07:00
Your MSC Cruise Ship for Pomene
MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida: 1,637 cabins | 4, 363 Guests | 1,370 Crew
Exclusive MSC Yacht Club: VIP enchanting cruises.
70% cabins with private balconies, stunning views.
Diverse, age-tailored onboard entertainment.
Chef Harald Wohlfhart's culinary masterpieces included.
Affordable holiday to South African most desirable cruise destinations
MSC Musica will arrive in South Africa for the 2024/2025 season
MSC Splendida Cabins
- 1,637 cabins with 70% private balconies
- Essential amenities in all cabins, including internet (fee-based).
- 71 luxurious suites offer VIP access and butler service.
- Upgrade to true luxury with MSC Yacht Club - The Ship within a Ship.
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Inside $Surface approx 17 sqm, deck 5-13
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Sea View $$Surface approx 18-21 sqm, deck 5-13
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Balcony $$$Surface approx 19-20 sqm, balcony approx 4-6 sqm
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Suite $$$$Surface approx 22-41 sqm, balcony approx. 4-6 sqm or sealed window, deck 9-12.
Inside
- Bathroom with shower, hairdryer & vanity area
- Relaxing armchair
- Standard comfortable double beds (single beds on request)
- Minibar, safe, TV and telephone
- Wifi connection available (for a fee)
The Image is representative only
Layout, Size and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category)
Ocean View
- Relaxing armchair
- Bathroom with shower, hairdryer & vanity area
- Standard comfortable double beds (single beds on request)
- Minibar, safe, TV and telephone
- Wifi connection available (for a fee)
The Image is representative only
Layout, Size and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category)
Balcony
- Sitting area with sofa
- Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer
- Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
- Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
- Balcony Aurea (best ship positions, surface approx 19 sqm, deck 11-13)
- Balcony Premium (surface approx 19-20 sqm, deck 8-13*)
- Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (surface approx 19 sqm, deck 8-13)
*Some cabins have metal balustrade or half glass half metal balustrade
Suite
- Sitting area with sofa
- Spacious Wardrobe
- Bathroom with bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer
- Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
- Interactive TV, Wifi connection available (for a fee), telephone, safe and minibar
Choose the Suite that best suits you:
- Grand Suite Aurea (surface approx. 38-41 sqm, balcony approx. 4-6 sqm, deck 9-11)
- Premium Suite Aurea (surface approx. 29-33 sqm, balcony approx. 4-6 sqm, deck 10-12)
- Premium Suite Aurea with sealed window (surface approx. 25-31 sqm, deck 9-11)
- Deluxe Suite Aurea with sealed window (surface approx. 22-23 sqm, deck 9-11)
The Image is representative only
Layout, Size and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category)
What is included in your Cruise
- All meals in the two main dining rooms, the buffet and selected other eateries.
- All shows in the theatre and other venues are included!
- Speciality Restaurant ($/€) for a unique dining experience!
- Shop ’til you drop in the duty-free shopping gallery ($/€)!
- Get your reading on in the library & game room
- Keep the little ones entertained with our award-winning kids club for all ages
- Service fees /gratuities are included so you don’t have to worry about a thing
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Accommodation in well-appointed cabins - as a crusie vacation is all about spoiling yourself
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Water, coffee and some juices are included in certain areas of the ship
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Most on-board activities such as group games, competitions, quizzes, and crafts classes are included - something for everyone to enjoy
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No entrance fee for the disco / nightclub - let's get this party started!
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All evening shows are free to enjoy
- All drinks beyond water, tea, coffee and selected juices in the buffet
- Shore Excursions
- SPA treatments & access to SPA area (Subject to experience)
- Wifi (unless specified otherwise)
- Casino, photos, shops
- Service fees (please check - it is INCLUDED in some markets)
- Aditional Kids activities
Our Passengers Share Their Experiences
WILL BOOK AGAIN!
I went on an incredible cruise from Barcelona, Rome was amazing. Malta's breathtaking sights were unforgettable. My inside cabin wasn't big but comfortable and there was lots of entertainment - live shows and spent a lot of time in the casino games I will book again with Victor.
KIDS SUPER HAPPY!
I went on the MSC Bellissima 7 nights cruise and was impressed with the activity options and helpful crew. Malta was a highlight, but Sicily wasn't as great, July is too hot for Sicily! All in all, it was a great cruise and my kids were super happy.
All Aboard to Pomene: Cruise FAQ
You can take the towels that are provided in your cabin onshore, so you don't have to bring your own. Just don't forget to bring them back.
There is unfortunately not much information available on the Old Pomene Hotel. This is what we have found.
Early 1954, a man called Vic Preen and his son Brian, had enough of Southern Mozambique and were looking for a more remote and untouched fishing ground.
They ended up setting camp in Pomene Point, a natural portent waiting to be discovered. And this after cutting through the forest from the West shore of the estuary.
A part of some local fishermen, they were the only people living on Pomene for about 6 years. In 1960, a cargo ship carrying sugar, the Berea which was shipwrecked on the South Beach of the Peninsula.
A road was built to recover the cargo and the extraordinary bay was discovered.
in 1966 the Old Hotel started its operations and was abandoned in 1974 during the Mozambiquan war.
Even if Portuguese Island is a tender and not an actual port, you still need a passport as you are exiting the Republic of South Africa.
Immigration in the port of Durban will check your passport details and give you an exit stamp.
All your drinks can be purchased with the ships' cruise card. The drinks packages can also be used on Pomene.
For any purchases you want to make in the local market, the vendors will accept South African Rands and US Dollars. If you have local currencies (such as Meticais) they will accept them too.
Can park your car, in a secure parking, at the newly build Durban Cruise Terminal.
For more read MSC Cruises Parking at Durban Harbour Guide
Deposit is R3,300 to secure your cabin. After we have received your all your details (name, surname & date of birth) you will receive payments details from your cruise consultant.
The balance will have to be paid at 75 days before the departure of your cruise.
MSC Cruises to Pomene prices & availability
Get ready for the 2024/2025 season with some MSC Special Offers and MSC Cruise Deals to Pomene.
(prices are per person sharing)