Kenya Welcomes Third Cruise Vessel as Azamara Journey Completes Inaugural Mombasa Visit
Mombasa – Monday, 12th January 2026 — Kenya’s cruise tourism sector continues its upward trajectory as the luxury vessel Azamara Journey made its maiden call to the Port of Mombasa, becoming the third cruise ship to visit the country this season. Carrying 690 passengers, the ship is part of a 16-night East Africa itinerary exploring the Vanilla Islands, and will remain docked through January 13.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano hailed the arrival as proof of Kenya’s growing appeal to global cruise operators, citing a 140% growth in cruise tourism by end of 2025. “We’re not just a port of call — we’re a destination,” she said, highlighting new infrastructure like the state-of-the-art Mombasa cruise terminal and the newly operational Shimoni Port. A dedicated multiple-entry Electronic Travel Authorization for cruise passengers ensures seamless excursions, positioning Kenya as one of Africa’s most cruise-friendly nations.
Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei added that targeted international marketing has paid off, with more operators now including Kenya in their itineraries. With Lamu and Shimoni also primed for cruise traffic, Kenya aims to host over six vessels this season — turning its 640-km coastline into a premier maritime tourism corridor.
