The 2025/26 cruise season has delivered a major economic boost for Nelson Mandela Bay, generating an estimated R111 million for the local economy while bringing tens of thousands of international visitors to the city.
The season officially came to a close on Thursday, 9 July, when the Viking Yi Dun became the final cruise liner to dock in the Bay before departing.
According to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, a total of 39 cruise vessels visited the city during the season, bringing 59 077 passengers and 22 994 crew members to local shores. The schedule included 16 overnight calls and 23 day visits, providing a welcome boost to tourism, hospitality, retail and transport businesses across the metro.
Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said the continued growth of the cruise industry reflects the City’s long-term tourism strategy.
“The growth is attributed to the Tourism Master Plan that the City is implementing, which identified the cruise industry as one of the niche sectors with significant potential to stimulate tourism and economic growth. We are pleased that the economic impact continues to increase, and we are confident that this trajectory will continue to create job opportunities and strengthen the local economy,” she said.
Why cruise tourism matters for Nelson Mandela Bay
The municipality highlighted several ways the cruise industry benefits the local economy, including:
- Visitors spending money on restaurants, shops, transport, attractions and shore excursions.
- Revenue generated for the port through berthing fees and essential harbour services.
- Employment opportunities across the tourism, hospitality, transport and tour guiding sectors.
- Cruise ships purchasing fresh produce, fuel and supplies from local businesses.
- Increased international exposure, encouraging visitors to return for longer holidays in Nelson Mandela Bay.
MMC for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture Bassie Kamana, alongside Acting Executive Director Wandisile Makwabe, welcomed passengers aboard the Viking Yi Dun and thanked them for choosing Nelson Mandela Bay.
The vessel, formerly known as the Viking Sun, is a luxury adults-only cruise ship that accommodates up to 930 passengers and is known for its Scandinavian-inspired design and inclusive onboard experience.
Speaking during the traditional plaque exchange ceremony, Kamana said the successful season highlighted Nelson Mandela Bay’s growing appeal as an international cruise destination.
“The estimated R111 million generated during the 2025/26 cruise season demonstrates the growing value of cruise tourism to our local economy. We look forward to an even bigger and better season ahead, welcoming more visitors from across the globe.”
With another successful season now complete, Nelson Mandela Bay will once again turn its attention to welcoming the next wave of international cruise visitors, with the industry continuing to play an increasingly important role in growing the city’s tourism economy.
Source: Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
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