Kenya: The MV Azamara Onward sailed into the Kenyan coast and marked the vessel’s first visit to the Port of Mombasa. It is the sixth cruise ship to grace Mombasa this season and the second from the same line, Azamara Cruises.
This followed the arrival of sister ship the Azamara Journey back in January 2026. On board are 653 passengers and 389 crew members, many of whom will be sampling the country’s famed hospitality, wildlife excursions, and historic Old Town, for the two days the vessel will be here.
Reportedly, there are three Kenyans working onboard among the crew. They are signalling that global cruise operators are steadily seeing Kenya as a cruise destination and also as a reliable source of skilled hospitality and maritime talent.
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has been quietly working to put Mombasa back on the international cruise map and said that the steady stream of ships reflects growing trust in the port’s efficiency and general cruise strategy.
As per the sources, there are only few months remaining in the current cruise circuit, where KPA expects two more vessels to call on Mombasa before the season comes to an end. That would make this one of the busiest cruise seasons, signalling a positive trajectory for the industry and a strengthening interface with the global cruise circuit.
In a brief ceremony, the master of the ship received a certificate of first call and a plaque from General Manager of Cargo Operations – Dr. Sudi Mwasinago, on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer – Capt. William Ruto.
Notably, among the other key dignitaries who attended the function were members of the Diaspora Affairs & Migrant Workers Committee, led by the vice chairperson – Simon Kingara. The increased cruise traffic reflects a positive trajectory for Kenya’s cruise tourism segment. This strengthens the country’s interface with the global cruise industry while delivering tangible economic and branding benefits to the coastal city.