Most cruise ships visit Walvis Bay between October and April, the southern summer. Even then, the weather here surprises first-time visitors, because the cold Benguela Current runs just offshore and shapes the climate of the whole coast.
What to expect
- Fog: mornings can be misty and cold, often clearing by late morning.
- Wind: an afternoon breeze is common, and strong wind can affect boat, kayak and dune trips.
- Sun: the desert sun is strong once the fog lifts.
- Rain: very little.
Cruise season runs mainly October to April; Our Swakopmund weather and climate guide and best time to visit page go deeper on the seasons.
What to wear and bring
- A windproof layer, especially for the boat trip, where it is cooler than on land.
- A sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Closed shoes for the dunes. See the Sandwich Harbour cruise guide.
- A cover for your camera, as the dunes are fine, blowing sand.
- Water, and a small bag for your ship card and cash.
What if the weather stops a tour?
In the thirty plus years of operation, we have only needed to cancel a tour due to weather a handful of times. As these cancellations were for operational safety they were refunded.. For ideas on alternatives, see shore excursions in Walvis Bay and the Walvis Bay cruise port guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Walvis Bay hot?
Not usually. Expect mild days, with cool, foggy mornings and a breeze.
Will fog cancel my boat trip?
No, fog will not cancel your boat trip; fog normally burns off.
Do I need warm clothes?
Yes, at least a windproof layer for the water.
Ready to book?
Three decades of catamaran cruises on the bay, kayaking among the seals at Pelican Point and 4x4 trips through the dunes to Sandwich Harbour, under the wide-open Namib sky, with a Walvis Bay crew who know every tide and wind on this coast.