South Africa’s Mossel Bay Inaugurates New Cruise Reception Facility, Boosting Cruise Tourism And Passenger Experience

Published on November 21, 2025

Mossel Bay is a delightful coastal town located on the Garden Route of South Africa and has made a big move to improve its attractiveness as a cruise destination. The Port of Mossel Bay has opened its new Cruise Reception Facility, which is going to make the process of embarking and disembarking for passengers in the growing sector of expedition cruises in the region much smoother. The first ship to dock at this luxurious terminal was the SH Diana, an expedition cruise ship belonging to Swan Hellenic, which was on its fifteen-day journey from Mombasa to Cape Town. The SH Diana had 167 people and 127 crew on board, thus marking a new beginning for the port.

This new facility is part of the Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) broader strategy to boost South Africa’s cruise tourism sector, particularly expedition cruising, which has seen an uptick in recent years. The terminal’s strategic location adjacent to the quay ensures a seamless and safe transfer of passengers from ship to shore, addressing the port’s previously frequent challenges with handling vessels at anchor. This development not only promises to improve operational efficiency but also offers a smoother, more enjoyable experience for cruise travellers visiting this remarkable destination.

The Need for Efficient Cruise Operations

The Port of Mossel Bay’s new Cruise Reception Facility was designed with the increasing demand for small-ship and expedition cruises in mind. Its completion comes as part of TNPA’s wider goals to enhance the infrastructure of ports along the South African coastline. The terminal aims to create a more efficient, streamlined experience for passengers, ensuring that customs, safety, and transfer procedures are handled smoothly, without the congestion that sometimes accompanies large cruise ship arrivals.

The terminal features shelter, dedicated processing areas, and essential services, ensuring passengers can transition easily from their ship to land-based tours. This focus on the passenger experience is especially beneficial for those visiting Mossel Bay for the first time or for those who are regular travellers on expedition cruises. The facility also consolidates cruise-related services in one location, improving coordination between port authorities, tourism bodies, and service providers, all of which helps to support a more enjoyable and less stressful arrival and departure process.

Building on Mossel Bay’s Growing Popularity as a Cruise Destination

Mossel Bay has experienced steady growth in cruise traffic, establishing itself as a regular stop for expedition travel companies exploring the Garden Route. In the 2024-2025 season, the port managed 21 cruise calls, welcoming over 13,000 passengers. The upcoming 2025-2026 season is already seeing an increase, with 23 cruise calls scheduled. This further growth is attributed to the region’s allure for cruise operators, particularly those specialising in small-ship and expedition cruises, which are increasingly diversifying itineraries along South Africa’s coastline.

The new reception facility is expected to facilitate further growth in cruise tourism by ensuring that the port remains a competitive and attractive option for international cruise lines. This strategic investment of R22 million reflects the TNPA’s commitment to operational improvements and to enhancing the port’s ability to cater to the unique needs of the cruise industry.

How the New Cruise Reception Facility Benefits Tourists

For passengers, the new Cruise Reception Facility at Mossel Bay will significantly improve the arrival and departure experience. Visitors can now expect faster and more efficient handling as they disembark from their ships, with streamlined procedures for customs, immigration, and health checks. This enhanced service will be particularly beneficial for those on tight schedules or looking to make the most of their time ashore.

Moreover, the port’s close proximity to the town centre and the Garden Route ensures that tourists can easily explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions that make Mossel Bay a sought-after destination. With more expedition vessels scheduled to dock in Mossel Bay, passengers can look forward to exploring the area’s beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and cultural heritage sites, including the famous Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex. For those looking to enjoy a more adventurous side of the region, Mossel Bay also offers world-class diving experiences, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to explore nearby nature reserves.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism and Economic Growth

TNPA’s vision for Mossel Bay is not just to enhance cruise tourism but also to promote sustainable travel in the region. The port’s development aligns with broader efforts to prioritise sustainable practices while stimulating local economic growth. By fostering a thriving cruise sector, the project will generate employment, support local businesses, and provide economic benefits to the town and surrounding areas.

Phyllis Difeto, Acting Chief Executive of TNPA, commented that the completion of the facility is a direct response to the growing needs of the tourism sector, and the development of Mossel Bay as a key destination for cruise tourism will continue to strengthen South Africa’s position as a major player in the global cruise market. Furthermore, the port’s improvements support TNPA’s Reinvent for Growth strategy, which aims to increase operational efficiency across South Africa’s ports.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Cruise Industry in Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay, with the new top-notch reception facility and an increase in the number of cruise calls for the upcoming season, is already a destination for cruise tourists with even greater success to come. The construction of the Cruise Reception Facility is a passenger experience enhancement and a sign of the increasing significance of South African ports in the global cruise market. As international tourists visit the Garden Route, Mossel Bay will not just be a point of interest but the main gem of the area, providing unmatched experiences to all the visitors.