Mombasa Welcomes Third Major Cruise Ship of 2025/26 Season
News Updated: 12 January 2026 20:20 EAT
Tourism cabinet secretary Rebecca Milano on x
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano on Monday welcomed the luxury cruise ship Azamara Journey at the Port of Mombasa, marking another boost for Kenya’s growing cruise tourism sector.
The vessel arrived with 690 passengers on board, most of them international tourists, who disembarked to explore Mombasa and surrounding coastal attractions as part of an East African cruise itinerary.
The visit represents the third major cruise ship call at the port during the 2025/26 cruise season, following earlier successful calls by SH Diana and Crystal Symphony, signaling sustained interest by cruise operators in Kenya.
The government has described the arrival as a significant milestone, reflecting renewed confidence in the Port of Mombasa as a safe, efficient, and attractive stop for international cruise liners.
Cruise tourism is increasingly being positioned as a key pillar of Kenya’s tourism diversification strategy, complementing traditional beach and wildlife tourism while expanding the country’s footprint in the global maritime tourism market.
Officials say cruise ship arrivals generate direct economic benefits for coastal communities through increased demand for tour services, transport, hospitality, handicrafts, and local businesses.
The Port of Mombasa has in recent years undergone upgrades aimed at improving passenger handling capacity, security, and turnaround efficiency to meet international cruise standards.
With more cruise calls expected later in the season, the government remains optimistic that sustained arrivals will strengthen Kenya’s profile as a premier cruise destination along the Indian Ocean coast.
Tags: Mombasa County Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstvkenya Tourism
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FELIX MAKONA
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