Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has launched the Cruise-to-Park initiative to transform brief cruise ship stopovers in Mombasa into immersive wildlife and conservation experiences, enhancing Kenya’s position as a premier destination blending coastal and inland attractions.

The initiative was announced during the arrival of the Viking Sky cruise vessel at the Port of Mombasa on Thursday. KWS Senior Assistant Director for the Coast Conservation Area Elema Hapicha made announcement on behalf of Director General Erastus Kanga.

“Today’s arrival is not just another cruise stop; it is a strong signal of Kenya’s growing position as a premier destination along the Indian Ocean cruise circuit. Each vessel and every visitor reflect increasing global confidence in Kenya as a safe, diverse and experience-rich destination,” Prof Kanga stated in the speech.

He emphasised that the Cruise-to-Park initiative invites visitors to explore beyond the port, connecting coastal heritage with renowned wildlife areas. Key destinations include marine ecosystems along the coastline, Tsavo National Park, Shimba Hills National Reserve, Amboseli, Maasai Mara, and Diani Beach, offering a unique combination of ocean, wilderness, history and culture.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Manager for Security Services Tony Kibwana, representing Managing Director Captain William Ruto, welcomed the vessel, noting it marks the second call by Viking Sky, following its maiden visit on March 19, 2025.

“This is actually the second call, having made a maiden call last year. Coincidentally, on a date like today, it was the March 19, 2025, and we are glad that they are back,” Mr Kibwana said.

He added that 2026 has seen strong performance in cruise tourism, with the Viking Sky being the fifth vessel to call at the Port of Mombasa this year. The ship will remain in port from March 19 to 21, allowing passengers to visit various parks and tourist sites across the county and beyond.

“This shows that Mombasa is not just a transit point. It is a major stopover and a major destination for cruise tourism,” he noted.

Viking Sky Captain Gerry Hogan expressed excitement about the visit.

“We’ve just come all the way from Seychelles here. The weather’s been absolutely stunning. We have approximately 450 crew, 750 guests who are about to embark and enjoy their three days in Mombasa. I myself am from England so I’m looking forward to my first time here. Thank you for welcoming us and we’re looking forward to our stay,” Capt Hogan said.

Lambodara Hotta, Finance Director for Pollman’s Tours & Safaris Limited, a key destination management partner collaborating with KWS, KPA and other agencies, highlighted the operational efforts to deliver world-class experiences.

“It is an immense pleasure for Pollman’s Tourism Safaris Limited, the leading destination management company in Kenya to welcome the magnificent cruise vessel Viking Sky to the Port of Mombasa. This marks another significant moment for Kenya, especially Mombasa, to position Mombasa port as a leading cruise tourism hub on the global map,” he said.

Passengers will go on excursions covering Tsavo, Amboseli, Diani, Maasai Mara and Wasini, combining coastal beach experiences with wildlife, history, culture and heritage sites.

The initiative supports conservation directly as park visits contribute to wildlife protection, ecosystem preservation and community livelihoods around conservation areas.

KWS also invited visitors to join the “I Support Conservation in Kenya” photo initiative as a gesture of shared responsibility for conservation.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Sitati Reagan