Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) says it is expecting to receive 32 more passenger vessels to dock at the Port of Walvis Bay by December solidifying its position as a leading cruise destination in Southern Africa.
This comes after two ships docked at Port on Wednesday with a total of 5,223 passengers. They all arrived at 06h00 and left at 18h00 the same day.
“We eagerly anticipate the upcoming visits of three of these vessels, namely the Silver Spirit on 30 January, the Bolette on 1 February, and extend a warm welcome to the AIDAsol on its maiden voyage to the Port of Walvis Bay on 2 February 2024,” said Namport’s Executive for Commercial Services Elias Mwenyo.
“These notable occurrences demonstrate our unwavering dedication to catering to the maritime community and guaranteeing unforgettable experiences for both travellers and crew, solidifying our position as a prime destination for cruise passengers.”
Mwenyo said on Wednesday, they welcomed 2,000 guests from the Queen Mary 2 Cruise Vessel at the Port of Walvis Bay.
This marked the return of the impressive 334-metre passenger vessel to the Port of Walvis Bay, with its previous visit dating back to April 2023.
“The Queen Mary 2 gracefully docked in the Port City at approximately 06h00 and embarked on its journey at 18h00 on the same day, heading towards the Canary Islands as its next port of call,” he said.
The MV Queen Mary 2 boasts an array of amenities that include 15 restaurants and bars, five swimming pools, a casino, a ballroom, a theatre, and the distinction of having the first planetarium at sea. With its 13 decks, comprising eight decks featuring 1,363 cabins, it offers a truly exceptional cruising experience.
Additionally, the Port of Walvis Bay had the honour of hosting the MSC Poesia on its maiden voyage, coinciding with the visit of Queen Mary 2.
“The MSC Poesia embarked on a remarkable world cruise spanning 120 days, welcoming an impressive 3,223 guests alongside an approximate crew of 1,000 members. From Walvis Bay, it set sail for its next destination, Zanzibar (Tanzania),” said Mwenyo.
The MSC Poesia has five restaurants and 13 bars, three swimming pools, a library, a casino, a theatre, and an on-board disco. It spans 16 decks and features 1,275 cabins.
