Luxurious Cruise Ship Docks at the Port Of Mombasa.
KENYA : The Ksh 1.3 billion ultra-modern cruise ship terminal in Kenya's Port Of Mombasa is buzzing with activity as the cruise season kicks off.
Since the start of the season, over 11 cruise vessels have docked at the Port of Mombasa, bringing with them more than 6,000 passengers.
One of the latest arrivals, the Liberian-flagged MV SH Diana, sailed overnight from the Port of Lamu. This beautiful ship, operated by Swan Hellenic, is named after the Roman goddess of light and wilderness.
Upon its arrival, the Kenya Ports Authority, KPA, Captain took control as the ship navigated the challenging S-bend channel and passed through the busy Likoni Crossing Channel to dock at the new terminal.
Despite the early morning rain, tourists and crew were greeted warmly by Port and County officials, accompanied by traditional Maasai dancers.
“She is disembarking about 125 passengers and embarking 180 passengers with a crew of 125. She has been here before in the last circuit,” stated KPA Harbour Master and Manager Marine Operations Captain, Ali Abdille.
He added that the vessel started her voyage from Europe, Zanzibar, Pemba, Lamu, and Mombasa and will return to the Seychelles.
Captain Ali Abdille of KPA noted that the ship disembarked 125 passengers and welcomed 180 new ones, with a crew of 125. He expressed optimism about the ongoing cruise activities, expecting more ships to return by December.
“In Mombasa, this is the eleventh voyage we have done so far with more than 6,000 passengers in total. Hopefully, by December, we expect her to come back with other cruise ships. We are optimistic; we are doing well,” explained Capt. Abdille.
Mombasa County Tourism Officer Mohamed Ali encouraged passengers to explore local attractions.
“It is good to be here; I haven’t been here since... I think 1998… with a warship. It is good to be here,” said the vessel’s captain, Svein Stromnes.
Passenger Michael Hedtor shared his excitement for excursions to the Maasai Mara before the ship departs later in the evening.
“The concept of Swan Hellenic is to try to make Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and the Seychelles more attractive cruise destinations,” he said, adding that they enjoyed Kenya’s hospitality.
With a focus on promoting Africa as a cruise destination, Swan Hellenic is keen to showcase the beauty of Kenya and its hospitality.
The Country, is embarking on growing the Tourism Sector, setting high expectations on revenue returns.
Tourism Cs Rebecca Miano, has been on an awareness campaign, marketing the country's tourist attractions amidst heightened competition from East African Neighbors Tanzania.
