Kenya’s tourism sector is showing strong signs of recovery as the country continues to attract international cruise ships. The latest milestone was marked by the arrival of the MS Norwegian Dawn, the third cruise ship to dock at the Port of Mombasa this year. The government, led by President William Ruto, is focusing on increasing tourist arrivals by improving port facilities and encouraging private-sector investment in attractive travel packages.
Cruise tourism has significant economic potential, with each passenger reportedly spending up to Ksh100,000 ($772) per day on excursions to national parks and local attractions. This revenue stream can contribute significantly to the economy, particularly in Mombasa and other coastal regions. However, the number of tourists disembarking from cruise ships remains a challenge, primarily due to visa restrictions and Kenya’s classification as a yellow fever-endemic zone by the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to Peter Kibe, the founder of the Mombasa Tourism Innovation Hub, Kenya could maximize its gains from cruise tourism if more passengers disembarked. While cruise ships pay port fees, the country would benefit more if all travelers took part in onshore excursions, boosting the local hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.
President Ruto, who boarded the MS Norwegian Dawn during its stopover, emphasized his administration’s commitment to growing Kenya’s tourism numbers. He noted that out of the 3,000 passengers onboard, 800 embarked on safaris and excursions, while others explored various attractions around Mombasa.
Ruto reaffirmed his goal of attracting five million international tourists to Kenya by 2027, building on last year’s record-breaking 2.4 million arrivals. He urged private-sector players to develop attractive tourism packages and enhance infrastructure to make Kenya a more appealing destination for international visitors.
“We have seen international tourist numbers increase exponentially, with the latest figures showing a record 2.4 million arrivals last year, surpassing our highest numbers so far. We are keen on bringing more cruise ships to Mombasa and ensuring Kenya remains a top destination,” Ruto said.
Despite the positive developments, challenges remain. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir called on the national government to simplify the visa application process for tourists. He also encouraged the private sector to upgrade tourism facilities and invest in staff training to improve hospitality services.
“My appeal is for the private sector to ensure that they upgrade tourism facilities, enhance training for hospitality workers, and make it easier for tourists visiting Mombasa to have seamless immigration procedures,” Nassir said.
The MS Norwegian Dawn, operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, made a daylong stopover in Mombasa before departing for Zanzibar. The vessel, which has a capacity of 2,340 passengers and 1,000 crew members, was making its second call at Mombasa, having visited last year. Captain Sein Kristjen, the ship’s skipper, praised the warm reception his crew and passengers received from Kenyan authorities and local tourism stakeholders.
Kenya’s cruise tourism industry holds immense promise if the right policies are implemented. The government’s efforts to attract more ships, combined with investments from private businesses, could position Mombasa as a major cruise hub in East Africa.
Addressing visa restrictions, improving port infrastructure, and enhancing security measures will be key to ensuring more tourists disembark and explore Kenya’s rich cultural and natural attractions. If these challenges are tackled, Kenya could unlock the full potential of cruise tourism and significantly boost its economy in the coming years.
