Bumper cruise season ahead
A BUMPER cruise season is still ahead for the Port of Richards Bay, with six passenger liners set to call at the local port this month alone.
The season, which kicked off in November, will run until May with four cruise ships anticipated next month, five in March, one in April, and two in May to wrap up the season.
The next arrivals, on 19 January, will be the Bolette with 238 passengers, and the Azamara Pursuit with 181 passengers. These vessels will be followed by the
Logos Hope on 20 January.
Bringing hundreds of tourists to the region's shores, the season is expected to provide a major boost for businesses and tourism establishments.
Richards Bay opened the season with the MS SH DIANA liner hosting 250 passengers and 200 crew members on board.
During the launch last year, port manager Dennis Mqadi said, “The collaborative spirit of the city’s stakeholders will guarantee a successful season and memorable experience of the many tourists who visit our city.”
This comes amid plans for the development of a cruise terminal, which Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) says will fulfil the tourism industry’s growth objectives for the City of uMhlathuze and King Cetshwayo District at large.
“In alignment with the Department of Tourism’s Cruise Strategy, TNPA’s strategic position is to offer new and modern cruise terminals that will provide an ideal gateway to a unique South African experience through its eight commercial ports,” said Transnet's KZN Logistics Hub portfolio director for mega projects, Dr Bridgette Gasa-Toboti.