Kenya received a timely boost in the tourism sector after a luxury cruise liner Norwegian Dawn docked at the Port of Mombasa on Sunday, January 14. 

According to Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain William Ruto, the luxury liner docked with 2,300 passengers on board. 

The Norwegian Dawn which is the first cruise vessel to dock in Kenya in 2024 had 1,100 crew on board. 

It is estimated that the passengers were paying up to Ksh429,000 for the experience. 

This is not inclusive of the amount that the passengers and crew will spend during their stay in Mombasa. 

“Sailing to Mombasa from Seychelles, Norwegian Dawn, with an LOA of 294 meters brought over 2,000 passengers from 54 nationalities to the Kenyan Coast for excursions,” a statement from KPA read in parts.

“They will explore the pristine white sandy beaches and national parks.”

The vessel was piloted by Captain Ruto to berth number one indicating the importance of the cruise liner. 

Captain Ruto appreciated the call noting that the Authority would continue supporting cruise tourism in the country. 

Expounding further, he stated that this would be achieved through investment in infrastructure to position the Port of Mombasa as a cruise tourism hub.

KPA Chairman Benjamin Tayari who was accompanying Captain Ruto remarked that the visit by Norwegian Dawn was an affirmation of Kenya's status as a top-tier tourism destination and one of the best in the continent.

Kenya is expected to receive another cruise ship carrying thousands of passengers.