MOMBASA The luxury Norwegian Dawn, recognized as the longest cruise liner of the season, docked at the port of Mombasa with 2,212 guests of 54 nationalities and 1,113 crew members. This marks the vessel's first visit to the Kenyan city.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kenya Port Authority (KPA) Managing Director (MD) Capt. William Ruto, speaking at the port, highlighted the significance of this event. According to Ruto, the arrival of the Norwegian Dawn marks a positive start to the cruise tourism season, indicating promising prospects for the industry. He emphasized that the KPA's substantial investment in infrastructure has enhanced the port's efficiency and reliability, making it more attractive to large cruise ships.
Ruto assured guests and staff of the port's readiness in supporting cruise tourism, citing robust security measures and infrastructure tailored to accommodate such vessels. He encouraged visitors to explore Mombasa's white sandy beaches and historical sites, emphasizing the impact on the local tourism sector.
Mombasa County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism and Trade, Mohamed Osman, commended the efforts of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and KPA for their collaboration, which has contributed to these achievements in the tourism sector. Osman stressed the importance of stakeholder synergy, committing to the County Government of Mombasa's role in fostering an environment conducive to tourism growth and positioning Mombasa as a premier destination in the region.
Capt. Asen Gyurov of the Norwegian Dawn expressed gratitude for the seamless reception at the port and lauded the management of the Kenya
Ports Authority. He conveyed optimism about the potential of Mombasa's port to become a turnaround point for cruise vessels in the future, praising its exceptional performance during the liner's maiden call.
The arrival of the Norwegian Dawn in Mombasa signifies a pivotal moment in the region's tourism industry, demonstrating the potential for growth and development in cruise tourism in Kenya.