Port Elizabeth Kicks Off Record Cruise Season, Elevating South Africa’s Tourism Ambitions

The arrival of the Mein Schiff 4 in Port Elizabeth has signaled a dynamic start to South Africa’s 2025/26 cruise season, underscoring the region’s growing prominence as a hub for international cruise tourism. This season marks an unprecedented chapter for the Eastern Cape, with a record 25 scheduled ship calls and nine overnight stays stretching through July 2026—making it the longest cruise season in the city’s history.

The city, officially known as Nelson Mandela Bay, is poised to welcome over 40,000 cruise passengers in the next nine months. This influx is expected to channel approximately R120 million into the local economy, a significant boost for businesses, job creation, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The economic impact extends well beyond immediate spending, reinforcing the value of cruise tourism as a strategic pillar for regional development.

Operated by Germany’s TUI Cruises, the 293-metre Mein Schiff 4 accommodates around 2,700 passengers and 1,000 crew members. The ship, currently on a repositioning voyage from Palma De Mallorca to Dubai, is navigating Africa’s east coast—partly due to security concerns that preclude passage through the Suez Canal and Red Sea. Unlike other operators who have opted for repositioning without passengers, TUI Cruises is offering a 40-night guest voyage, creating rare opportunities for African port cities to host international travelers and showcase their tourism offerings.

This season’s extended schedule and the decision to include nine overnight stops reflect growing operator confidence in Port Elizabeth’s cruise infrastructure and appeal. These developments highlight the city’s emergence as a preferred destination, not only for sightseeing but also as a logistical partner for global cruise lines.

Nelson Mandela Bay’s Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, described the Mein Schiff 4’s arrival as a milestone that cements the city’s status as a rising star in global cruising. “Every vessel that docks at our port brings new opportunities for our residents and local businesses. The cruise industry contributes millions into our economy each season through visitor spending, local procurement, and job creation,” Lobishe remarked. Her words underscore the broader economic ripple effect, where each ship call supports a network of guides, transport operators, artisans, and suppliers.

The numbers back up this optimism. Last season, data from the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) reveals that 20 cruise calls brought about 50,000 visitors to Nelson Mandela Bay, generating an estimated R100 million in spending. This year’s longer season and increased overnight stays are set to push that figure to R120 million, reaffirming the cruise sector’s ability to drive sustainable urban growth.

Visitor spending in Port Elizabeth is diverse and impactful. Guests often embark on guided city tours, wildlife safaris, and township experiences, and indulge in local cuisine and crafts. These activities inject direct revenue into the community, while port fees and procurement of local supplies provide further economic stimulus. The extended overnight stops further encourage deeper exploration and longer stays, maximising the positive effects on the regional economy.

Pamela Yoyo, Ports Manager for Nelson Mandela Bay, emphasized that the 2025/26 season is not just about economic gains. “Beyond the substantial economic impact, this is a valuable opportunity to showcase the city’s vibrant culture and renowned hospitality to the world,” she stated. Yoyo highlighted the port’s commitment to delivering memorable guest experiences and driving long-term growth through strategic partnerships with tourism stakeholders and local government.

Recognizing the importance of reliable infrastructure, TNPA continues to invest in upgrades designed to accommodate larger vessels and ensure swift turnarounds. “TNPA remains dedicated to supporting the city’s tourism initiatives through ongoing investment in port infrastructure, availability of marine resources, and collaborative efforts with key stakeholders,” Yoyo added. These improvements are critical as global cruise lines increasingly seek destinations capable of handling modern, high-capacity ships.

On a national level, South Africa’s Department of Tourism has identified cruise tourism as a high-growth industry with enormous potential. Projections indicate that national cruise passenger spending will exceed R2 billion during the 2025/26 season, with the Western Cape—particularly Cape Town—continuing to serve as the country’s primary cruise homeport. However, the surge in activity in Port Elizabeth signals a growing decentralization, offering new opportunities for travel professionals, suppliers, and local authorities across the country.

For African travel industry stakeholders, these trends present an array of new possibilities. As cruise operators seek alternative and engaging destinations along the continent’s coasts, cities like Port Elizabeth are well-placed to capture a greater share of the global cruise market. The growing frequency of ship calls and overnight stays will drive demand for innovative shore excursions, bespoke cultural experiences, and enhanced hospitality services. This shift also encourages investment in supporting infrastructure, from upgraded port facilities to improved transport links and tourism amenities.

Looking forward, the momentum generated by the 2025/26 cruise season is expected to fuel further expansion and transformation within South Africa’s tourism landscape. The success of Port Elizabeth as a cruise destination could inspire similar growth in other coastal cities, raising South Africa’s profile as a must-visit region for international cruise enthusiasts.

The ability of African destinations to adapt to changing global cruise patterns—such as rerouted voyages due to regional security challenges—demonstrates resilience and resourcefulness. For those in Africa’s travel sector, the message is clear: strategic partnerships, investment in world-class infrastructure, and a focus on delivering authentic, memorable experiences will be key to capturing the full potential of cruise tourism in the years ahead.