Tourism boost as MV Viking Sky cruise ship docks at Mombasa Port with 845 passengers

Mombasa's growing reputation as a cruise tourism destination received a major boost Wednesday with the arrival of the MV Viking Sky, marking the fourth cruise vessel to dock at the port this year.

The luxury ship, which arrived from Seychelles en route to Madagascar, carries 845 passengers and 469 crew members, including 20 Kenyans.

Unlike most cruise liners that make brief stops, MV Viking Sky will stay for three days, giving visitors ample time to explore the city's rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and nearby wildlife reserves.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who officiated the ship’s welcoming ceremony, hailed the growing interest in Kenya as a cruise destination.

"We were here in February to receive another cruise ship, the Norwegian Dawn, and now we welcome the MV Viking Sky, which is a true testament that cruise tourism is taking shape. Mombasa is becoming a preferred destination," Miano stated.

She highlighted that the passengers aboard MV Viking Sky have a packed itinerary, including visits to Mombasa’s famous beaches, Tsavo National Park, and Wasini Island.

"This is a major boost for our tourism sector. As a government, we are committed to supporting the industry and ensuring that we have the right policies and legislation to facilitate its growth," she added.

Kenya received seven cruise ships last year, bringing in over 6,000 tourists. With just three months into 2025, the country has already welcomed more than 4,000 visitors from cruise liners, according to Kenya Ports Authority.

"Looking ahead, we aim to welcome more than three million international visitors in 2025 and increase this to five million annually within the next two years. Cruise tourism, given its large numbers, will play a critical role in achieving this goal," she said.

The arrival of the MV Viking Sky also underscores the importance of cruise tourism in bolstering Mombasa’s economy. Dr Sudi Mwasinago, General Manager of Cargo Operations at the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), noted that the extended stay of the vessel would have a direct impact on local businesses.

"One thing that is special about this vessel is that it will stay for three days. Most cruise ships only stop for a day or less, but this prolonged visit means more business for local traders, restaurants, and tour operators," he said.

He also emphasised the financial benefits to the port, as docking fees and other related charges contribute to revenue generation.

Miano assured visitors that Kenya has made significant strides in enhancing safety.

"Visitors can walk freely and feel secure. We have put in place measures to ensure their safety. At the same time, we encourage Kenyans to embrace tourism and become ambassadors of our country," she urged.

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The MV Viking Sky, the fourth cruise ship to dock in Mombasa this year arrived from Seychelles today en route to Madagascar.

The vessel carries 845 passengers and 469 crew, including 20 Kenyans. It will stay for three days at the port before departing while the visitors explore… pic.twitter.com/ZnpxCZjsFo

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) March 19, 2025

Mombasa County Tourism Chief Officer Pauline Oginga echoed this sentiment, stating that the county government is working closely with national security agencies to guarantee a smooth experience for visitors.

"We prioritise tourism. Many changes are coming, including beautifying the city, improving street lighting, and enhancing security. We want Mombasa to be not just a tourist hub, but a beautiful, welcoming county," she said.

Oginga also highlighted the need to promote domestic tourism alongside international arrivals, ensuring that Kenyans also experience the country's rich attractions.

The government is also keeping a close eye on health protocols to protect both visitors and locals. Miano reiterated that Kenya has not recorded any cases of yellow fever in years but remains vigilant.

"We value health matters and are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of both our visitors and citizens. We are also reviewing regulations to see what measures can be proposed without compromising health and safety," she explained.

The MV Viking Sky’s arrival was met with excitement from both officials and passengers. The ship’s captain, Fredrick Nelson, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception.

"On behalf of Viking Sky, thank you very much for the warm welcome. We are excited to be here, and we have many interesting tours lined up for the next three days. The professionalism of the port authorities made our arrival smooth," he said.

Among the ship’s crew are 20 Kenyans, a reflection of how the cruise sector is creating employment opportunities for locals.

Miano noted that the government is keen on providing technical support to enable more young Kenyans to secure jobs in the industry.

"It is wonderful to see Kenyan crew members on board. They have been at sea for over three months and will have a chance to reunite with their families. We are committed to enhancing capacity-building to ensure more young people can access jobs in the cruise sector," she said.

Kenya Ports Authority has confirmed that another cruise ship is expected to arrive on March 31, further cementing Mombasa’s status as a key player in regional cruise tourism.

"This is the fourth cruise vessel we have received in just three months. With more lined up, we are optimistic about the sector’s growth," Dr Mwasinago said.

As Mombasa continues to attract cruise liners, stakeholders remain hopeful that the sector will drive economic growth, create more jobs, and showcase Kenya as a world-class tourism destination.