Nelson Mandela Bay Welcomes 50 000 Cruise Pax This Season

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality NMBM and the Tourist Guide Association of Mandela Bay credit their strong working relationship for significant growth in the local cruise tourism industry.

According to the NMBM, the partnership has helped rebuild the sector post-pandemic, focusing on inclusivity and skills development for emerging tour guides and operators.

Cruise industry growth and economic impact:

• 34 cruise vessels have arrived in Nelson Mandela Bay so far this season out of 45 scheduled November 2024-April 2025.
• In March, the city welcomed seven cruise dock-ins and five overnight stays. Three more are expected before the end of the month.
• 15 vessels will stay for multiple days, contributing to 61 days in port.
• The economic impact of the cruise industry this season is projected to exceed R100million 5million, up from R85million 4.3million in the 2023/24 season, driven by 50000 cruise passengers spending on tours, dining, shopping and cultural experiences.

NMBM has prioritised initiatives to improve tourism infrastructure, safety and visitor experience, working with key stakeholders including the Mandela Bay Development Agency, Transnet and Eastern Cape Parks Tourism Agency. Investments have been made in: