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Island-Hopping by Sea vs. Staying on One Island – Which Is Better?

Honeymooners, adventurers and family travellers alike often face the same conundrum when planning an island holiday: should you settle into one idyllic destination and soak it all in, or embark on a journey that lets you discover multiple islands in one trip?

One island’s charm or a whole string of them? The toughest choice of your holiday

Both options have their charms, but depending on your travel style, one may suit you better. To help you decide, we explore the magic of island-hopping by sea versus staying on one island across some of the most popular destinations for South African travellers.

 

Asia: Vibrant Variety or Deep Discovery?

Asia’s islands are as diverse as they are dazzling — from futuristic skylines to tranquil palm-fringed shores. The question is: do you dive deep into one destination, or spread your time across many?

Option 1 | Staying on One Island

Choosing a single island such as Thailand’s Koh Samui or Malaysia’s Langkawi means slowing down and truly immersing yourself. Think secluded coves, indulgent spa treatments and unhurried beachside dinners.

Koh Samui, Thailand: the kind of Thai islands that you’ll never want to leave

For travellers who value relaxation and depth of experience, staying put offers an intimate connection with your chosen destination.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel has a range of fully-inclusive packages for Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore, as well as hundreds of DIY options (flights, accommodation, etc.). Visit our website for more info.

Option 2 | Island-Hopping by Sea

Cruising through Asia allows you to experience the glitz of Singapore, the sandy escapes of Thailand, the lantern-lit charm of Vietnam and Malaysia’s cultural tapestry — all in one itinerary.

Sail away on the Norwegian Sun — from Singapore to Southeast Asia’s hidden gems

Each port offers something unique: futuristic skylines, hidden beaches, bustling night markets and world-class cuisine. This variety is ideal for couples and families who crave contrast and adventure.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel’s partner NCL is offering up to 35% off this cruise, now priced at R49,083. Plus the package includes an upgrade to NCL’s More At Sea bundle (Premium Beverages, Speciality Dining, Excursion Credits and High-Speed Wi-Fi). Full details and Ts & Cs here.

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Europe: One Island Retreat or Mediterranean Island-Hopping?

The Mediterranean offers romance and history at every turn, whether you’re sipping wine on a cliffside terrace or wandering through ancient ruins. But is one island retreat enough, or should you set sail to explore them all?

Option 1 | Staying on One Island

Santorini alone can fill an entire honeymoon or family getaway. Between cliffside wine tastings, black-sand beaches and legendary sunsets, there’s no shortage of romance and charm.

Live the dream: Santorini sunsets, wine and slow island days

Staying in one place allows you to embrace the island’s rhythm — no rushing, just living the slow life in the Aegean sun.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel has a range of fully-inclusive packages for Greece and Croatia, plus DIY packages (flights, accommodation, etc.). Visit our website for more info.

Option 2 | Island-Hopping by Sea

From Santorini’s dazzling caldera views to Olympia’s ancient ruins and Croatia’s medieval harbours, a Mediterranean cruise feels like sailing through history itself.

From Greece to Croatia, the Norwegian Pearl will take you straight into postcard perfection

Within a short sail you’ll encounter distinct cultures, cuisines and coastlines, each stop as memorable as the last.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel’s partner NCL is offering up to 35% off this cruise, now priced at R24,866. Plus the offer includes an upgrade to the More At Sea package (Premium Beverages, Speciality Dining, Excursion Credits and High-Speed Wi-Fi). Full details and Ts & Cs here.

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Africa & Indian Ocean: Remote Escapes or Untamed Adventure?

The Indian Ocean islands tempt travellers with postcard beaches, dramatic landscapes and a sense of untouched beauty. The choice? Indulge in the luxury of one island — or unlock the full adventure...

Option 1 | Staying on One Island

Mauritius on its own is the ultimate postcard-perfect getaway: white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, catamaran cruises and candlelit dinners on the sand.

Réunion’s wild beauty: waterfalls, volcanoes and endless adventure

For those seeking romance, luxury and relaxation, it’s a single destination that ticks all the boxes.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel offers a wide range of packages for all Indian Ocean islands, plus DIY options (flights, accommodation, etc.). Visit our website for more info.

Option 2 | Island-Hopping by Sea

Cruising the Indian Ocean means you don’t have to choose between Mauritius’ luxury, Réunion’s volcanic landscapes or Madagascar’s extraordinary biodiversity — you get it all.

Hop aboard the Norwegian Sun for a whirlwind tour of Mauritius, Réunion and Madagascar

It’s the perfect option for travellers who want variety without the hassle of packing and unpacking between stops.

Go Here With Sure: Sure Travel’s partner NCL is offering up to 35% off this cruise, now priced at R66,528. Plus the deal includes an upgrade to the More At Sea package (Premium Beverages, Speciality Dining, Excursion Credits and High-Speed Wi-Fi). Full details and Ts & Cs here.


So, Which Should You Choose?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it depends entirely on your travel style!

  • Choose Staying on One Island if… you prefer slow mornings, lazy afternoons and the chance to fully immerse yourself in one destination. Perfect for couples, honeymooners and families seeking true downtime.
  • Choose Island-Hopping by Sea if… you want variety, adventure and the thrill of waking up to a new horizon each morning. Cruises offer multiple cultures, cuisines and coastlines without the stress of repacking.
Whether you spend your holiday on one island or many, you’re sure to fall in love with the journey

Whether you’re drawn to the adventure of discovering multiple islands or the intimacy of savouring just one, your ideal island getaway comes down to pace. Island-hopping is about variety and discovery; staying put is about depth and romance. Whichever you choose, Asia, Europe and the Indian Ocean offer some of the world’s most unforgettable backdrops for your dream escape.

 

Island-Hop With Sure

Sure Travel’s trusted partner, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is offering 35% off all cruises booked by 30 September 2025. Plus the offer includes an upgrade to NCL’s More at Sea package (Premium Beverages, Speciality Dining, Excursion Credits and High-Speed Wi-Fi).  

This discount deal is applicable to all NCL cruises, but if it’s islands you’re after these are our top 3 picks:

6-Night Mediterranean Cruise (Santorini, Olympia & Croatia) onboard NCL Pearl, NOW priced at R24,866 pps. Plus quoted rate includes an upgrade to NCL’s More at Sea package: Premium Beverage Package; Speciality Dining Package; Wi-Fi Minutes Package; Shore Excursions Credit. Full package details here

Cruise Greece and Croatia onboard the NCL Pearl for less


10-Night Asia Cruise (Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam & Malaysia) onboard NCL Sun, NOW priced at R49,083 pps. Plus quoted rate includes an upgrade to NCL’s More at Sea package: Premium Beverage Package; Speciality Dining Package; Wi-Fi Minutes Package; Shore Excursions Credit. Full package details here

The NCL Sun is waiting to transport you to Asia


10-Night Indian Ocean Islands Cruise (South Africa, Madagascar, Reunion & Mauritius) onboard NCL Sun, NOW priced at R66,528 pps. Plus quoted rate includes an upgrade to NCL’s More at Sea package: Premium Beverage Package; Speciality Dining Package; Wi-Fi Minutes Package; Shore Excursions Credit. Full package details here

The NCL Sun explores tropical coastlines in style

Hurry; sale ends 30 September 2025! To book/enquire, contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency

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