MOMBASA, Kenya — The Port of Mombasa on Tuesday received the Viking Yidun, the first cruise ship to call at the Kenyan port from Asia, in a move expected to boost the country’s growing cruise tourism sector.
The vessel arrived at 6am and berthed at 7.15am carrying 717 passengers from over 12 nationalities and about 450 crew members before departing later in the evening after a day-long stopover.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Capt. William Ruto described the ship’s maiden call as a significant milestone, saying it reflects the success of efforts to position Mombasa as a preferred cruise destination.
“Most of the cruise ships visiting the Port of Mombasa have been coming from Europe, but today we are honoured to receive the first cruise ship from Asia,” he said during a reception for the vessel.
Capt. Ruto said the Viking Yidun is the ninth cruise liner to dock at the Port of Mombasa this year, adding that KPA expects at least 20 cruise ship calls by the end of 2026.
He attributed the growth to continued investment in cruise infrastructure, including the construction of a modern cruise terminal, and partnerships with the Kenya Tourism Board, the national government and the Mombasa County Government to market Kenya as a cruise destination.
“We continue investing in tourism and ensuring that cruise vessels and their passengers receive efficient services whenever they call at the Port of Mombasa,” he said.
The KPA boss also assured cruise operators that the authority would continue providing safe and efficient port services to encourage repeat visits.
Captain Alex Sehlstedt said the Viking Yidun began its repositioning voyage from Shanghai, China, on June 4 and is sailing through Asia and around southern Africa before concluding the journey in Tarragona, Spain.
He said the vessel has about 450 crew members drawn from 16 nationalities, with the majority coming from China.
“We have enjoyed beautiful weather throughout the voyage and we are grateful for the warm welcome we have received in Mombasa,” he said.
Hashim Abdalla, Viking’s regional manager for East Africa, thanked the Port of Mombasa for facilitating the vessel’s visit.
Representing the Mombasa County Government, Mohamed Ali welcomed the visitors and assured them of their safety during their stay, encouraging them to experience the city’s culture and tourist attractions.
Pollman’s Tours and Safaris Chief Executive Mohamed Hersi welcomed the vessel on behalf of the tourism industry, saying increased cruise ship calls would create more opportunities for Kenya’s tourism sector.
“We hope to see you more often so that more visitors can enjoy what Magical Kenya has to offer,” he said.
Among the passengers was Wu Haifeng from Beijing, China, who said although it was his fourth visit to Kenya, it was his first arrival by cruise ship.
He said he looked forward to touring Mombasa, exploring its history and culture, and experiencing Kenya’s wildlife during the visit.
