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The Port of Mombasa on Sunday welcomed its first cruise ship of the year, marking the official start of the 2026 cruise tourism season with the arrival of the luxury vessel *MV Crystal Symphony*.
The 238-metre-long ship, with a draft of eight metres, docked at the port from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, carrying more than 1,000 passengers. This is the vessel’s second visit to Kenya, following its maiden call last year.
Port officials and tourism stakeholders organised a reception for the ship, highlighting Mombasa’s rising profile as a preferred cruise destination along the Indian Ocean coastline.
During their stay, passengers are expected to take part in various tourist activities, including visits to national parks, guided tours of Mombasa’s Old Town, and excursions to cultural and leisure sites across the coastal region.
Crystal Symphony’s Cruise Entertainment Director, Vicky Vantassel, said guests were pleased to return to Kenya, citing the warm hospitality extended to them. She noted that many passengers were eager to explore the country, even during the brief stopover.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Corporation Secretary and General Manager for Board and Legal Services, Turasha Kinyanjui, said the authority remains focused on positioning Mombasa as a leading cruise hub in the region. Speaking on behalf of KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto, Kinyanjui said continued investments are being made to improve port infrastructure and services.
He added that KPA is working closely with partners in tourism, security, and county government to enhance visitor experiences at the port.
The arrival of MV Crystal Symphony is expected to boost the local economy, benefiting tour operators, transport providers, artisans, and hospitality businesses that rely on cruise tourism.
Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chief Executive Officer June Chepkemei, along with senior officials from the Mombasa County Government, attended the reception and reaffirmed their commitment to marketing the Coast as a top destination for international travelers.
Tourism stakeholders say the visit signals a busy cruise season ahead, with several more ships scheduled to call at the Port of Mombasa in the coming weeks, reflecting renewed confidence in Kenya’s tourism sector and the port’s strategic role on global cruise routes.
