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outh Africa. Old and new. Old for her 117,000 years as home to Homo sapien. And new because, 15 years after the fall of apartheid, she is in the midst of an incredible renaissance.

Come see what we mean on a cruise aboard the all-suite, 114-passenger Corinthian II, as we trace the Atlantic and Indian Ocean coastlines. Along the way, head inland to see what all the fuss is about.

Gather in Cape Town to poke around this vibrant city. On day-trips to the Cape Winelands and the Cape Peninsula, get a feel for the geography here at the tip of the African continent (and get a taste or two of the fabulous wines).

Then embark the ship, and we’re off.

East London, our first port of call, boasts bizarre cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and a ravishing shoreline.

Durban, next, which many believe to be the city that will successfully lead South Africa into the future, with its heterogeneous mix of Zulus, Indians, and whites. Keep your ears open as we tour this polyglot city.

Anchoring in Richards Bay, we set off for Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, the nation’s oldest national park and an outstanding game reserve. Think black and white rhinos, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and more. As an alternative, head for Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, a protected lake that supports a plethora of animal and plant species.

From historic Port Elizabeth, we visit Tsitsikamma National Park, which delights with its prolific wildlife and dramatic scenery—deep gorges, ancient hardwood forests. There’s time, too, in Port Elizabeth, whose Victorian architecture charms us. Then Addo Elephant Reserve and its mighty herds as well as Cape buffalo, kudu, hartebeest, and other delightful creatures.

Mossel Bay is our entry into the Garden Route, some of South Africa’s prettiest scenery. The climate here? Mediterranean. In nearby Wilderness National Park, keep your eyes open for some of the 250 avian species overhead. Don’t forget your binoculars.

Back to Cape Town and home.

South Africa by Sea. 16 Days.