KENYA WELCOMES THIRD CRUISE VESSEL AS AZAMARA JOURNEY COMPLETES INAUGURAL MOMBASA VISIT
PRESS RELEASE
Kenya Welcomes Third Cruise Vessel as Azamara Journey Completes Inaugural Mombasa Visit
Mombasa – Monday, 12th January 2026… Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano reaffirmed the government’s commitment to position Kenya as a premier cruise destination as more cruise ships continue to dock at the country's coastal ports.
Azamara Journey became the latest luxury vessel to dock at the Port of Mombasa, marking its inaugural call to Kenyan shores. The premium cruise liner becomes the third vessel to visit Kenya this season, bringing 690 passengers for a two-day stay as part of its 16-night East Africa cruise exploring the Vanilla Islands.
Speaking during the reception ceremony, CS Miano noted that Kenya's cruise tourism sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by strategic infrastructure investments and policy reforms that position the country as an attractive destination for major cruise lines.
"The maiden call by Azamara Journey is a testament to our sustained investment in enhancing the capacity and appeal of Kenya's cruise tourism sector, which recorded 140% growth by end of 2025. We welcome the increasing number of cruise operators adding Kenya to their itineraries, as this provides a platform to showcase the richness of our coastal heritage, wildlife attractions, and vibrant Swahili culture to a global audience," CS Miano stated.
The arrival of Azamara Journey followed the historic docking of SH Diana at the newly constructed Shimoni Port in Kwale County in October 2025, and the Crystal Symphony which called at Mombasa Port on January 4. The government anticipates receiving more than six cruise vessels throughout the 2025-2026 season.
Miano highlighted the government's commitment to seamless passenger experiences through innovative facilitation measures. "We have introduced a multiple-entry Electronic Travel Authorization specifically designed for cruise ship passengers. This system enables seamless movement between vessels and mainland excursions without requiring repeated authorization, making Kenya one of the most cruise-friendly destinations on the continent," she explained.
On her part, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei commended the collaborative efforts that have elevated Kenya's cruise tourism profile internationally.
"Our aggressive marketing efforts in international cruise forums and trade shows have been instrumental in raising Kenya's visibility among major cruise lines. The arrival of Azamara Journey demonstrates that our message is resonating, and we are committed to positioning Kenya not just as a port of call, but as a premier destination worthy of extended stays and repeat visits," Chepkemei said.
The government has invested significantly in port infrastructure development, with the Port of Mombasa completing a state-of-the-art cruise terminal capable of efficiently processing passengers and accommodating larger vessels.
Additional ports along Kenya's 640-kilometre coastline, including Shimoni in Kwale County and Lamu, have been strategically developed to expand cruise reception capacity.
The Azamara Journey, a boutique-style R-Class ship built in 2000 and offering 30,277 gross tonnages, will remained in port through to January 13th, providing passengers extended opportunities to explore Mombasa's cultural and coastal attractions.