MOMBASA: The cruise season has officially begun at the Port of Mombasa, invigorating the recently constructed Sh 1.3 billion ultra-modern cruise ship terminal. This development marks a significant milestone as more than 11 cruise vessels have docked at the port, bringing over 6,000 passengers to the region.

According to Kenya News Agency, the most recent arrival is the Liberian-flagged MV SH Diana, operated by Swan Hellenic Company. The vessel, named after the Roman goddess of light, the moon, hunting, and the wilderness, traveled from the Port of Lamu to Mombasa. Upon reaching the Mombasa port’s outer limit, the KPA Captain took charge of the Polar class ship, maneuvering it with the aid of a KPA tug-boat through the challenging S-bend Ras Serani and Ras Mzimba, before docking at the new cruise terminal.

The tourists and crew, despite early morning rains, were greeted warmly by Port and County Government officials and entertained by Maasai traditional dancers. KPA Harbour Master and Manager Marine Operatio
ns Captain, Ali Abdille, noted that the ship disembarked 125 passengers and embarked 180, with a crew count of 125. The vessel’s itinerary includes stops from Europe to Mombasa, and it will return to Seychelles.

Captain Abdille highlighted that this marks the eleventh voyage of the season in Mombasa, with expectations for continued growth in passenger numbers. Mombasa County Tourism Officer, Mohamed Ali, extended a welcome to the passengers, encouraging them to explore the region’s tourist attractions.

The Vessel’s Captain, Svein Stromnes, expressed enthusiasm for including African destinations like Kenya and Tanzania on the cruise circuit, aiming to enhance their attractiveness to cruise travelers. Passenger Michael Hedtor planned an excursion to the Maasai Mara National Reserve before the ship’s scheduled departure later in the evening.