Cruise ship to boost cross-border tourism

By Philip Mwakio

A cruise ship owned and operated by PV Ocean Mist Cruises is set to sail on Friday on its maiden commercial cruise from the port of Mombasa to the idllyic spicy islands of Zanzibar and Pemba.

The ex Royal Star vessel, which has undergone extensive refitting and perfect repairs, will be cruising from tomorrow for three nights.

Tourism Minister, Najib Balala while officially unveiling the service last Sunday lauded the management of the cruise liner for starting the service.

"This is a very bold step in investing in such a venture and we take this earliest opportunity as a government to thank you and offer our valid support,’’ he said.

Balala told several guests during an introductory cocktail cruise that the Kenyan tourism product is dynamic and innovative.

"This cruise is ideal in that it serves to promote cross border tourism in the region," said Balala.

Ms Salma Jusab, Ocean Mist Cruises Administration manager told The Standard the inaugural cruise received overwhelming support from locals and tourists.

"The cruise is over 50 per cent full with a good mix of Kenyans, Tanzanians and Ugandans. They have been joined by foreign tourists from overseas currently holidaying in Kenya,’’ she said.

She added that the first leg of the ship’s maiden cruise promises to be exciting as she will be sailing out to sea looking fresh and new.

Rich interiors

Ocean Mist has a genuine classic heritage with acres of teak decks and rich interiors of polished wood and gleaming brass.

The ship, which is fully stabilised, will be home ported at the Mombasa harbour. It is ideal for cruising closer to the shores, visiting intriguing ports with only a small number of passengers on board. There is also entertainment provided onboard by Bulgarian dancers as well as super five star dining.

Onboard facilities include comfortable accommodation with private facilities.

There is a fine range of lounges and bars, such as the Marco

Polo lounge, Explorer bar, Starlight Nighclub and Piano bar, Lido bar, Le Papillon International Restaurant , library, boutique, beauty salon ,swimming pool, sauna, gym, tourist office, medical centre and an elevator.

While in Zanzibar, passengers can have a range of excursions to chose from such as visits to Stone Town and Spice farm visits, dolphin tour and sandy beach excursions.

During the return trip, the ship will make a day long stop at the Mesali island, Pemba for a day of sightseeing, beach barbeque and relaxation.