The Port of Mombasa on Monday welcomed the MV Azamara Onward on its maiden visit to the Kenyan coast, marking another milestone in the country’s steadily growing cruise tourism sector.
The luxury vessel, operated by Azamara Cruises, docked with 653 passengers and 389 crew members on board. Its arrival represents the sixth cruise ship call to Mombasa this season and the second from the same cruise line, following the visit of sister ship Azamara Journey earlier in January.
Passengers are expected to explore Mombasa’s rich cultural heritage, including excursions to the historic Old Town, wildlife safaris, and other coastal attractions during the ship’s 36-hour stay before proceeding to Zanzibar.
Officials from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) say the increasing number of cruise ship calls signals renewed global confidence in Mombasa as a cruise destination. The authority has been implementing strategies to reposition the port on the international cruise circuit, with visible results.
KPA projects that at least two more vessels will call at the port before the end of the current cruise season in May, potentially making this one of the busiest periods in recent years.
During a brief reception ceremony, the ship’s captain received a certificate of first call from Dr. Sudi Mwasinago, General Manager of Cargo Operations at KPA, on behalf of CEO Capt. William Ruto. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including members of the Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers Committee led by Vice Chairperson Hon. Simon King’ara.
The arrival of cruise vessels is increasingly being recognized for its economic benefits, particularly in tourism, local trade, and service industries. While cruise ships primarily rely on onboard staff, stakeholders highlighted indirect opportunities such as the sale of local crafts, supply of food and fuel, and tour services.
Notably, three Kenyan crew members are currently working aboard the Azamara Onward, reflecting a gradual uptake of Kenyan talent in the global cruise industry.
According to KPA, Kenya earned approximately USD 2.1 million from coastal tourism last year, with cruise tourism playing a growing role in that revenue.
The visit also coincided with a fact-finding tour by the Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers Committee, which is assessing opportunities for expanding employment for Kenyans in the cruise industry.
Committee members engaged port officials and industry stakeholders on Kenya’s capacity to host larger vessels, frequency of ship calls, and potential policy interventions to enhance sector growth.
Officials confirmed that the port successfully handled a cruise ship carrying 2,000 passengers earlier in March, demonstrating its readiness for high-capacity vessels.
Human resource specialist Zipporah Macharia, who works aboard the Azamara Onward, described cruise ships as “floating international hotels” that rely on highly skilled, full-time staff. She emphasized the importance of equipping Kenyan youth with relevant hospitality and maritime skills to access such opportunities.
Leaders underscored the need for deliberate efforts to maximize the benefits of cruise tourism. Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed called for investment in skills development, while Likoni MP Mishi Mboko highlighted the importance of strengthening international partnerships to expand employment opportunities.
KPA officials also pointed to shifting global geopolitical dynamics as a factor enhancing Kenya’s reputation as a safe and attractive destination for cruise operators.
As the season continues, stakeholders remain optimistic that the upward trend in cruise traffic will further integrate Kenya into the global cruise network while boosting the coastal economy.
