With the cruise liner season approaching, Walvis Bay Harbour is preparing to welcome approximately 40 passenger vessels.

The Mein Schiff 4 cruise liner was the first to arrive, carrying about 2,500 passengers.

Between October this year and October 2026, nearly 40 vessels are expected to bring around 79,000 passengers through the harbour, significantly boosting tourism in the Erongo Region.

Chief Regional Officer of the Erongo Regional Council, Dr. Sam Ntelamo, explained, "For the very first time, this particular cruise ship will stay in Walvis Bay for two nights before proceeding to Cape Town. Previously, cruise ships would dock for only a few hours before departing. This extended stay is a major advantage for the country's economy and especially benefits local businesses in the tourism sector."

In the past, passenger cruise liners typically docked at the port for just one day. 

However, NamPort and other stakeholders have arranged for vessels to stay longer this season, allowing tourists more time to enjoy excursions and activities offered by local tourism companies.

The owner of Hafeni Township Tours, Hafeni Heinrich, encouraged other small and medium enterprises to prepare and capitalise on this opportunity. 

"We aim to gain market share in this promising industry. Local operators offer cultural heritage tours, township tours, gastronomy experiences, transportation, and day safaris. We are ready."

Over the past three years, international cruise liners have recognised Namibia as an emerging market and have established offices in Walvis Bay.

Namibia's strategy to attract more vessels includes investing in port infrastructure, enhancing safety and security for tourists, and ensuring smooth immigration processing for passengers and vessels.