MOSSEL BAY – Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) yesterday, 13 November, witnessed an 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.
According to a statement issued by TNPA, 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. “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,” the statement explained.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the cruise facility today, TNPA 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,” she noted.
“The project embodies the Ports Authority’s commitment to sustainable tourism while stimulating economic growth in our port cities. 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,” she added.
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.
The statement further added: “During the previous season, the port recorded 21 cruise vessel calls carrying over 13,000 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.”
