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 R100 million (€5 million), up from R85 million (€4.3 million) in the 2023/24 season, driven by 50 000 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:

• Port and tourism infrastructure upgrades to enhance visitor experiences.
• Training programmes on digital marketing, tourism best practices and cruise tourism packaging to support local tour operators.
• Recruitment of tourism ambassadors from the youth sector to improve hospitality and safety.
• Tailored tourism packages to encourage cruise passengers to explore beyond the port, visiting private game reserves, cultural heritage sites and township experiences.