Tourism Sector Boosted as Luxury Cruise Ship Docks at Mombasa Port

By Mbungu Harrison

Kenya’s coastal tourism sector received a significant boost following the arrival of a luxury cruise ship from the Philippines carrying 630 tourists and 389 crew onboard at the Port of Mombasa on Monday morning, April 27, 2026.

Speaking during the visitors, Simon King’ara, chairperson of the parliamentary committee on Diaspora Affairs, said the arrival signaled growing international confidence in Kenya as a safe and attractive tourist destination.

“These visitors will stay here for two days, and many of them will tour different parts of the country, including national parks. About 90 percent of them are retirees seeking peace and relaxation while experiencing Kenya’s natural beauty,” he said.

The chair commended the ministries of tourism and security for their role in improving safety and promoting the country globally, noting that their efforts have contributed to increased tourist arrivals.

According to officials at the Kenya Ports Authority the vessel is the fifth cruise ship to dock at the port this year with more arrivals expected before the end of May.

Zamzam Mohammed Chimba emphasized the need to further promote Kenya’s cultural heritage and wildlife to sustain the growth in cruise tourism.

Meanwhile, Ruweida Mohammed encouraged young people to acquire skills in hospitality and maritime services to take advantage of employment opportunities available on cruise ships.

“As a committee, we are engaging with the relevant ministries to explore ways of integrating Kenya more into the cruise industry. Even without owning cruise ships, we can create employment opportunities for trained youth,” she said.

The ship’s agent, Hashim Ahmed, praised the KPA for developing a modern cruise terminal one of the most advanced in East Africa but called for continued investment in infrastructure to position Kenya as a leading regional cruise hub.

Likoni MP Mishi Mboko called for a change in key tourism policies to ease over taxation of tourists touring the country.

That way she said will attract more visitors and earn Kenya foreign exchange.