Luxury cruise ship Azamara has docked at the Port of Mombasa carrying 663 passengers and 338 crew members as part of its 16-night East Africa and Vanilla Islands cruise itinerary.

The vessel, which is on a round-trip voyage that began in Port Louis, Mauritius, made its maiden call at the port, marking a significant milestone for cruise tourism in Kenya.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the arrival marked a strong start to the year for the tourism sector.

“We know that cruise tourism is about huge numbers, and this is very critical for Kenya, especially as the government has set new targets to increase tourist arrivals and boost earnings,” she said.

Miano noted that continued improvements in key infrastructure, including roads and airports, are complementing tourism growth, adding that government policy has been streamlined to support diversification.

“Modern travellers are looking for variety, and that is why we are diversifying our tourism products. The sector is on an upward trajectory,” she said.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director said it was a pleasure for the authority to host Azamara, noting that the ship’s call was unique and part of a maiden visit.

“This is not the usual cruise ship, and we are pleased that it will be making four calls at the Port of Mombasa this year,” the MD said.

He added that KPA is working closely with the government to support tourism growth and appreciates the efforts being made to promote Kenya as a cruise destination.

The KPA Managing Director further revealed that Azamara is the second cruise vessel to call at the port this year, with more arrivals expected in the coming days.

“We are expecting another cruise ship later this week carrying over 1,000 tourists. This week alone, more than 2,000 tourists are expected to pass through the Port of Mombasa,” he said, expressing optimism about a strong cruise tourism season.