Kenya’s tourist industry received a timely boost as the luxury cruise ship Norwegian Dawn docked at the Port of Mombasa on Sunday, January 14.

The luxury liner docked with 2,300 guests on board, from 54 different countries. according to Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain William Ruto

The Norwegian Dawn is the first cruise vessel to dock in Kenya in 2024 and had 1,100 crew members on board. The passengers are reported to have paid up to Ksh429,000 for the experience, with additional spending expected during their stay in Mombasa. “Sailing to Mombasa from Seychelles, Norwegian Dawn, with an LOA of 294 meters brought over 2,000 passengers from 54 nationalities to the Kenyan Coast for excursions,” a statement from KPA read in parts.

Captain Ruto, who piloted the vessel to berth number one, emphasized the importance of the cruise liner’s visit, stating, “The Authority would continue supporting cruise tourism in the country.” Additionally, KPA Chairman Benjamin Tayari, accompanying Captain Ruto, remarked that the visit by Norwegian Dawn was an affirmation of Kenya’s status as a top-tier tourism destination and one of the best in the continent.