The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has confirmed the arrival of the MS Ambience cruise vessel at Mombasa Port on its first-ever journey to Kenya.

Carrying 1,700 passengers, the ship docked at the port on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 morning after sailing from Victoria port in Seychelles.

The diverse group of passengers are scheduled to enjoy a two-day stay on the coast, providing a significant boost to the local tourism sector. KPA remarked, “It has been a successful cruise season for KPA, with a series of vessel arrivals since the season commenced in September last year.”

Highlighting the impact of the newly operational Cruise Terminal, KPA emphasized its role in enhancing passenger experiences and positioning Kenya as a key destination for cruise tourism in Africa.

This development follows the recent visit of MV World Artania in February 2023, which brought 1,500 passengers to Mombasa, with around 800 tourists disembarking for excursions to renowned sites like Masai Mara and Tsavo.

Officials from the Kenya Tourist Board and KPA were present to welcome the vessel, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that have propelled the growth of cruise tourism in the country.

The completion of the modern Sh1 billion cruise ship terminal by President Ruto has attracted upscale vessels and affluent tourists, positioning Mombasa as a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury experiences and contributing to the region’s economic development.