Banjul

Banjul, the tiny capital perched on St Mary’s Island where the River Gambia meets the Atlantic, stands apart from other cruise ports with its intimate, river-first character. Ships arriving here slip into a harbor that blends maritime heritage with warm Gambian hospitality, offering signature experiences that unfold along the Gambia River: intimate river cruises on small, maneuverable launches that glide through mangrove channels, close-up encounters with fishing villages and birdlife, and a golden-hour sail that frames the capital’s skyline. Guests can wander Albert Market’s hive of color and scent, sample Gambian staples such as spicy fish, domoda peanut stew, and Benachin, and clock a history lesson in the colonial streets just beyond the harbor. Excursions extend to nearby reserves and coastal towns where biodiversity, crafts, and traditional music tell the region’s story. The visiting fleet features river-ready enhancements: shallow-draft tenders and flexible excursion craft, with options for zodiac transfers, kayaks, and sunset sailings. Onboard services are as thoughtful as the port itself: Gambian-inspired cuisine, cultural workshops, live performances, and multilingual guides that translate the river’s rhythms into memorable moments, all designed to leave guests feeling that Banjul is a rare, hands-on gateway to The Gambia’s soul, not just another stop on the itinerary.