Mossel Bay’s role in South Africa’s cruise market is shifting fast.
Visitor numbers have climbed steadily, with operators adding more calls, and the region is pushing for stronger tourism infrastructure.
And that push officially reached a new high point this week.
Mossel Bay’s new cruise facility
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) opened a new cruise recreation facility at the Port of Mossel Bay, a move that signals growing confidence in the Garden Route’s cruise tourism momentum.
According to Tourism Update, the facility is designed to streamline ship-to-shore movement for vessels anchoring in the bay, improving safety and comfort for visitors who tender ashore.
TNPA Acting Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto said the project was shaped around direct feedback from tourism partners.
“This delivery further strengthens Mossel Bay’s positioning as a key destination on the country’s growing cruise map. The project reflects the Ports Authority’s commitment to sustainable tourism while supporting economic growth in our port cities.”
Built to international standards, the R22 million facility centralises port, customs and tourism services under one roof. TNPA says it forms part of a wider set of development plans aimed at lifting Mossel Bay’s competitiveness in marine and coastal tourism under its Reinvent for Growth strategy.
A growing port of call
Mossel Bay handled 21 cruise calls and more than 13 000 passengers in the previous season.
With the new facility now operational, the port expects 23 calls during the 2025/26 season. Local tourism leaders say the upgrade will help extend visitor time in the area, unlock new tour options and boost spending in neighbouring towns along the Garden Route.
Officials added that the launch positions Mossel Bay to attract a greater share of international itineraries as cruise lines expand operations along South Africa’s coastline. The port is also exploring additional improvements tied to marine tourism and future waterfront development.
