uShaka Cargo Hold
1 / 10

Cargo Hold Restaurant

4.6
·491k reviews·,

Dine aboard the Phantom Ship at uShaka Marine World, surrounded by a mesmerizing shark tank for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
uShaka Cargo Hold

Cargo Hold Restaurant

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine aboard the Phantom Ship at uShaka Marine World, surrounded by a mesmerizing shark tank for an unforgettable culinary journey.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Dine with the sharks in one of Durban's most spectacular settings, offering a unique and sophisticated ambiance."

TIP

Book Tank-Side Tables Early

Reservations are essential, especially for tables next to the shark tank. Book weeks in advance.

Be Prepared for Crowds

The restaurant can get busy, particularly during peak lunch and dinner times.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 5PM

Cuisine

Seafood

Price

$$$

Phone

+27 31 328 8037

Address

1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dine with Sharks

Dine with Sharks

Experience a unique underwater ambiance dining next to a captivating shark tank, offering a truly memorable meal.

Gluten free restaurants in Durban (1)Dive into Durban's Marine World: Aquariums, Seal Shows, and Shark Encounters
Peri Peri Prawns

Peri Peri Prawns

Savor the succulent and flavorful peri peri prawns, often hailed as the best ever experienced by diners.

Google Review+1
Seafood Platters

Seafood Platters

Indulge in generous and fresh seafood platters, featuring crayfish and other oceanic delights.

Google Review+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ A MUST-TRY Restaurant in Durban! 📍 Cargo Hold – uShaka Marine World Affordable fine dining INSIDE an aquarium 😍 🦈 The view? Breathtaking. 💸 The prices? Way more affordable than you’d expect! 📸 Perfect for a date, a chill lunch, or just vibing with ocean views. ⭐ 10/10 experience. #durban #cargohold #SharkViewDining #ushakamarineworld #hiddengems
@thuloane_m
630 likes • 31.1K views

Book Tank-Side Tables Early

Reservations are essential, especially for tables next to the shark tank. Book weeks in advance.

Be Prepared for Crowds

The restaurant can get busy, particularly during peak lunch and dinner times.

It’s been a long week Let’s go spend some money a 📍Cargo Hold Ushaka, Durban #foodreview #cargohold #aquariumrestaurant #durban #finedining
@mysterybaddie2
74 likes • 1.3K views
Dine with the fish - An amazing view at Cargo Hold Ushaka - Durban trip 2024 #fun #food #travel #southafrica #durban
@travelwithsets
124 likes • 12K views

Don't Miss the Prawns

The peri peri prawns are a standout dish, frequently recommended by reviewers.

Check Tank Cleanliness

While the tank is a highlight, be aware that some reviews mention debris in the water.

Cargo hold restaurant #sololeveling #solodate #durban
@sihlemcube2
113 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tank-Side Tables Early

Reservations are essential, especially for tables next to the shark tank. Book weeks in advance.

Be Prepared for Crowds

The restaurant can get busy, particularly during peak lunch and dinner times.

Don't Miss the Prawns

The peri peri prawns are a standout dish, frequently recommended by reviewers.

Check Tank Cleanliness

While the tank is a highlight, be aware that some reviews mention debris in the water.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cargo Hold offers a uniquely captivating dining experience, with the shark tank ambiance being a major draw. Diners rave about the exceptional seafood, particularly the peri peri prawns and seafood platters. However, some guests have noted inconsistencies in service professionalism and found the decor to be a bit dated, while food quality can occasionally be underwhelming or lukewarm.

"Walking in I was quite disappointed with the decor of the restaurant. Yes it is supposed to give off a vibe of a cargo hold of a ship, but as a result it leaves a cold and soulless atmosphere. The large wall to wall and floor to ceiling aquarium is a lovely display of a variety of fish and small shark.
However, once you dig into the food all is forgotten as your attention is drawn to the delicious dish in front of you!
I had the peri peri prawns, like I’ve done in several restaurants around the country, and this was easily the best peri peri prawns dish I have ever had. I will return easily just to have this dish again.
Also at our table , the chicken breasts were ordered and it was juicy and very flavourful-you will not go wrong in ordering this as well."

Deelen Pillay

"The prawns were excellent. The fish of the day had good quality, but no flavor. Of course the highlight is the fish. It's nice, but it would be nice if we were surrounded 360. If you're not sitting right next to the tank, you could miss some views.

The cost is higher than near alternative restaurants, but the amount of food was much more. The family enjoyed it and they aren't easily impressed."

Clifton Russ

"The tank is amazing however the staff are not very professional and need training... the food was ok... we ordered medium to well done steak however the plate was bloody and unappealing. The milkshakes are also very average...Our bill was R750 for 2 pax and really not worth it.The restuarant could also do with moisture absorbers as it creates a stuffy environment."

Chanee Winter

What People Like

Breathtaking shark tank views
Delicious seafood and prawns
Unique and memorable ambiance

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service professionalism
Decor could use an update
Occasional food temperature issues

Frequently Asked Questions

It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, ideally weeks ahead, and specifically request a table next to the shark tank when booking.

Restaurants in DurbanGoogle Review

Many diners highly recommend the peri peri prawns and the seafood platters for their freshness and flavor.

Google Review+1

Yes, it's considered a perfect place to celebrate birthdays or anniversaries due to its unique ambiance and experience.

Google Review

One reviewer mentioned being told they couldn't have a drink without ordering food, which might be a policy to check.

Google Review

Yes, the restaurant is uniquely situated within the stern of the Phantom Ship, with large windows looking into the uShaka Marine World aquarium.

TikTokGluten free restaurants in Durban (1)

It's a unique experience with a dramatic underwater backdrop, though some find the decor dated and service inconsistent.

TikTokGoogle Review+1

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

The Culture Trip

Top 10 Things To Do And See In Durban, South Africa

If you choose to visit uShaka Marine World, be sure to book in for lunch or dinner at The Cargo Hold, located on board the infamous Phantom Ship, where guests can dine in fine style surrounded by the deep blue in one of Durban’s most remarkable settings. Enjoy some of the spiciest, fruitiest and most exotic flavors procured from the freshest produce in KwaZulu-Natal, and sample expertly prepared meals while witnessing the beautiful ocean view and the sharks swimming in the tank. Try the grilled crayfish or langoustines, a mouthwatering dish prepared with herbs, spices, lemon and olive oil.

Visit Source →
Fodor’s Travel

Restaurants in Durban

You might need to book several weeks in advance to secure a table next to the shark tank here, but if you do it'll be one of your most memorable dining experiences. Enjoy a carpaccio of smoked ostrich or tomato veloute—while massive ragged-tooth sharks drift right by your table and sand sharks stir up the sandy bottom. Aside from the array of generous seafood platters, Cargo Hold also serves beef fillet with oxtail phyllo and confit duck with an orange glaze.

Visit Source →
Lonely Planet

Best restaurants Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Visit Source →
Gluten Free Adventures

Gluten free restaurants in Durban (1)

There we had a table booked to have a dinner next to the sharks!. I was very excited and intrigued to see what the restaurant would be like. After crossing the entire aquarium and seeing the different attractions there, we headed to Cargo Hold, a restaurant that is inside the stern of the Phantom Ship, where you will find part of the aquarium and from where you can see the sharks tank guarding what represented a sunken treasure.

Visit Source →
Durban Restaurants | FoodBlogDBN

Durban Restaurant Guide | Eating-Out, Dining Suggestions & Reviews

Fine dining with the sharks in one of Africa’s favourite restaurants is a must do culinary experience that offers you a nautical and sophisticated ambiance, nestled in the stern of the Phantom ship, with superb views of the ocean and shark tank you will find the recently refurbished and infamous Cargo Hold Restaurant Executive Chef … More

Visit Source →
afristay.com

Top 10 Family Friendly Restaurants in Durban – Afristay Blog

Dine among the sharks at this unique restaurant, situated within the popular uShaka Marine World. Begin your outing with a tour before stopping by for a nice, relaxed meal with your loved ones. The restaurant offers some excellent cuisine, taking you on a global journey with dishes from different countries and cultures.

Visit Source →
Daddys Deals

Romantic Restaurants To Visit For Valentine's Day

Yes, even one of uShaka Marine World’s eateries made the list of romantic restaurants, but this is definitely more on the unique side of the spectrum. The Phantom Ship hosts the secluded Cargo Hold – a restaurant that allows you and a loved one to dine with the sharks!. This will ensure an intimate dining experience.

Visit Source →
Travelstart Blog

Spend A Weekend in Durbs, the Street Food Capital of South Africa

uShaka Marine World offers a world-class aquarium experience that kids and adults will love. Get a kick out of dining in the Cargo Hold restaurant in the Phantom Ship with sharks and fish swimming around you. The menu brings together all the spicy, fruity and exotic flavours Durban is renowned for.

Visit Source →
SANI SIXT Car Rental South Africa

Dive into Durban's Marine World: Aquariums, Seal Shows, and Shark Encounters

The restaurant, which looks like a 1940s shipwreck, serves seafood and other dishes, making dining here a special event. Visit uShaka Marine World in Durban for a fun and educational experience. Meet sharks, dolphins, and seals up close and learn about them through exciting shows and encounters.

Visit Source →
restaurants.co.za

Kwazulu Natal restaurants

Durban Central, Kwazulu Natal Fine Dining, Grills, International, Seafood, Vegetarian. Dine with the sharks in one of Durban’s most spectacular settings, offering a unique and sophisticated ambiance. Nestled in the stern of the Phantom Ship, with superb views of the ocean and s...

Visit Source →
ROMANTICFUNPLACES

Romantic Places To Take Your Girlfriend To In Durban South Africa

To have an amazing dining experience in Durban, Cargo Hold Restaurant is where to go. This is one of the places I highly recommend for couples looking for a romantic dining experience. Aside from the prices, this is a very nice location with stunning decor and an aquarium inside.

Visit Source →
ThingsToDoWithKids

30 Child-Friendly Restaurants in Durban & Surrounds

Take the kids for a thrilling day of adventure at uShaka Marine World and end the day with a high at the Cargo Hold Restaurant. The restaurant borders the aquarium offering unmatched views of magical ocean life as you dine. Address: uShaka Marine World, King Shaka Ave, Durban

Visit Source →
ArrivalGuides.com

Rainbow Restaurant & Jazz Club - Durban

Dine within arm's reach of the uShaka shark tank and marvel at graceful marine predators as you tuck into excellent seafood offerings of this one-of-kind restaurant. Book in advance to get the best table. It is not required to pay the Marine World entry fee to attend.

Visit Source →
sa-airlines.co.za

Must-Visit Family Restaurants in Durban

Take a break from the watery entertainments of uShaka Marine World with a meal at the Cargo Hold Restaurant. Built into the stern of a stranded ship, The Cargo Hold is surrounded by the aquariums shark tanks to amuse the little ones while you enjoy your meal.

Visit Source →
Foodsouthafrica

Top Restaurants in Durban South Africa: A Culinary Guide

Cargo Hold Restaurant is in the uShaka Marine World and offers a unique dining experience. The Restaurant is built inside an old cargo hold and offers a stunning ocean view. The Restaurant offers seafood dishes, including sushi, fish, and shellfish.

Visit Source →
southafrica.net

KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban has a wide variety of restaurants (GL)

In the stern of the same ship is the Cargo Hold restaurant, surrounded by the glass of a shark tank, where diners can see  sub-adult silvertip sharks,  black-tip reef sharks, guitarfish and barracudas (among others) while they eat.

Visit Source →
sa-venues.com

KwaZulu Natal Restaurants: Fine Dining

Stay in Durban BeachfrontGet to the Cargo Hold Restaurant at uShaka Marine World and dine with the sharks. You will find this magnificent restaurant at the hearth of the Phantom Ship ... Caf�s & Eateries / Fine Dining

Visit Source →
Moafrika Tours

Best Day Tours In Durban 🎖️ Half Day and Full Day Tours

This is a great place to have lunch if you are visiting uShaka Marine World and very popular among local Durbanites. You will find it on board the infamous Phantom Ship in one of Durban’s most remarkable settings.

Visit Source →
My Guide Durban

Best Restaurants in Durban

Arguably the most exciting landmark of Durban's famous Golden Mile is uShaka Marine World. One of Durban's best known tourist attractions, it is located just north of th

Visit Source →
THE CAPITAL Hotels, Apartments & Resorts

Fancy Restaurants To Visit in Durban in 2023

Step aboard a culinary voyage at Cargo Hold, located in a replica of a 1920s cargo ship. This unique restaurant offers a diverse menu with an emphasis on seafood.

Visit Source →
ushakamarine.com

Cargo Hold

Experience the finest of Handmade Hospitality in the heart of the Phantom Ship. We offer a variety of options and facilities to ensure a memorable experience.

Visit Source →
sluurpy.co.za

The best Crepes in Durban

I been to the Roma Revolving Restaurant several times but I am always in awe. The slowly revolving restaurant is classy and sophisticated as you view...

Visit Source →
Wiki South Africa

Top 10 Best Restaurants in Durban

Visit Source →
thingstodowithkids.co.za

25+ Child-Friendly Restaurants in Durban & Surrounds 2020 – Things to do with Kids

Visit Source →