Facility boosts port’s cruise charisma
Vessel calls at Mossel Bay
SOUTH AFRICA: The new Cruise Recreation Facility in the Port of Mossel Bay officially welcomed passengers onboard the SH Diana with an opening ceremony today.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the cruise facility today, Transnet National Ports Authority, Acting Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto said, “the development of this new facility is TNPA’s direct response to the needs of our tourism partners. This delivery further strengthens Mossel Bay’s positioning as a key destination on the country's growing cruise map. The project embodies the Ports Authority’s commitment to sustainable tourism while stimulating economic growth in our port cities.”
“This delivery further strengthens Mossel Bay’s positioning as a key destination on the country's growing cruise map.”
The iconic moment with the docking of the passenger vessel, SH Diana, at the Port of Mossel Bay’s newly launched Cruise Recreation Facility, a state-of-the-art facility developed to position Mossel Bay as a crucial hub for South Africa’s growing cruise tourism industry.
In a festive atmosphere, passengers aboard the SH Diana, carrying around 167 international tourists and 127 crew members, were introduced to a newly designed facility, which provides a seamless tourist experience that combines safety, comfort and high-quality service.
The facility is integral to the efficient operation of cruise activities, with its strategic location near the quay infrastructure, allowing tourists to move from ship to shore safely, for passenger vessels anchored in the Bay.
Built to international standards, the new facility is fully equipped to accommodate several cruise tourism stakeholders and serve as the hub of port and customs-related services. Its timely delivery solidifies the execution of the Transnet Reinvent for Growth strategic framework, which focuses on enhancing operational efficiencies and increasing the value of service to customers and broader port users.
With an investment of approximately R22 million, this project is part of the TNPA’s port development plans to enhance the competitiveness of the Port of Mossel Bay, particularly in marine and coastal tourism.
During the previous season, the port recorded 21 cruise vessel calls carrying over 13000 passengers. With the new facility now operational, the port anticipates an upsurge in tourist arrivals, with 23 cruise vessel calls planned for the 2025/26 season.
PHOTO: Official Opening of Mossel Bay Cruise Reception Facility (From left) Alderman Colin Puren , Mossel Bay Municipal Manager, Alderman Mark Furness, Mossel Bay Tourism Board Chairperson, Phyllis Difeto, TNPA Acting Chief Executive, Captain Vernal Jones, TNPA Acting Managing Executive for Western Region, Captain Vania Clote, Acting Port Manager at the Port of Mossel Bay.
697