A German cruise ship arrived at Port Elizabeth on Friday, October 24, beginning a tourism season expected to bring 120 million rand to Nelson Mandela Bay through next July. The Mein Schiff 4 reached port at 5 a.m. after departing Cape Town on a 19-day voyage to Dubai. Officials predict more than 40,000 passengers will visit through 25 ship calls before the season ends on Wednesday, July 9, 2026, when a Chinese vessel completes the schedule.
Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said the extended season creates jobs for tour guides and hospitality workers while promoting regional culture. Transnet National Ports Authority expects visitor spending on excursions, dining, and shopping to support small businesses. The previous season generated over 100 million rand from 50,000 travelers aboard 20 vessels.
Ships from multiple international lines will dock between November and June, with nine staying overnight. Port manager Pamela Yoyo said improvements to facilities will accommodate larger vessels. South Africa's cruise industry produced nearly 2 billion rand nationally last season from 79 arrivals.
Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said the extended season creates jobs for tour guides and hospitality workers while promoting regional culture. Transnet National Ports Authority expects visitor spending on excursions, dining, and shopping to support small businesses. The previous season generated over 100 million rand from 50,000 travelers aboard 20 vessels.
Ships from multiple international lines will dock between November and June, with nine staying overnight. Port manager Pamela Yoyo said improvements to facilities will accommodate larger vessels. South Africa's cruise industry produced nearly 2 billion rand nationally last season from 79 arrivals.
