More about Durban
Why go to Durban?
A diverse city, Durban boasts gorgeous beaches and access to some of the region's most prized attractions
Durban is a large city, and with that comes some risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing
With its mix of rich cultural sights and access to natural wonders, this port will give you a good feel for South Africa
Durban Cruise Port Facilities?
The cruise ship terminal is found in a commercial container ship port so the leisure facilities are limited. The closest tourist facility to the port terminal is uShaka Marine World, which has an open-air mall called Village Walk that contains souvenir and surf shops, restaurants, fast food restaurants and toilets. The ship staff will give you a map, and it's an easy walk to the beaches of Durban.
Good to Know?
Be conscious of pickpockets. While walking is reasonably safe when vigilant in the daytime, steer clear of walking at nighttime. Keep valuable possessions out of sight or preferably on the ship. If you rent a car, lock the doors, and keep windows closed in high-density areas.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Durban's beaches and city center are within a 15-minute walking radius of the cruise terminal, but for safety, the cruise ships will often advocate taxis as a mode of transport.
By Taxi: The best way to get around is by taxi. They are safe, cheap and run metered fares. To travel from the terminal to the city will cost about 30 to 50 rand.
By Bus: Most cruises will run a bus to uShaka Marine World. From there, a shuttle bus operates to the Victoria Street market, which is the heart of Durban's city center.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
South Africa uses the rand (ZAR). For current currency conversion figures, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com. There are no ATMs at the cruise port, but five minutes in a taxi to the city center will see you reach many bank outlets and withdrawal facilities.
Language?
English is the language spoken by Durban locals, but you might hear it peppered with Afrikaans, Zulu and Hindu. The most commonly used Afrikaans words are:
Braii for a barbecue
Eish for a drawn out response to shock or surprise
Ja for yes
Just now is not quite now but could be never
Lekker is for all that is good and great
Robot is a traffic light
Where You're Docked?
The Bay of Natal is a natural harbor just behind the beachfront. The passenger terminal facility is in N Shed at T-Jetty. There are craft stalls at the terminal when ships are docked. A five-minute walk will see you reach the Golden Mile of beaches, as well as uShaka Marine World, a popular tourist attraction. It's a fifteen-minute walk into the city center of Victoria Street, but take a taxi and you'll be there within five minutes.
