Kenya’s tourism sector is recording strong growth and is on course to meet its targets, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chief Executive Officer June Chepkemei has said.

Chepkemei revealed that the country’s cruise tourism segment recorded a 140 per cent growth during last year’s cruise season, expressing optimism that the figure will rise further this year as visitor numbers continue to increase.

“The sector is on the right track, and we are encouraged by the steady growth we are witnessing across the tourism industry,” she said.

She urged tourists to explore destinations across the country under the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) initiative, which promotes diverse tourism offerings beyond traditional attractions.

Chepkemei was speaking during the reception of the cruise ship Crystal Symphony at Berth One of the Port of Mombasa.

She said the vessel arrived with more than 600 tourists, including crew members, noting that nearly 200 passengers disembarked, with some already proceeding to various excursion sites across the country.

According to the KTB CEO, the early arrival of the cruise ship is a strong indicator that the sector has surpassed expectations.

“We are expecting another cruise ship next month, with several others scheduled to dock before the end of the festive season,” she disclosed.

Chepkemei explained that Kenya’s cruise tourism season runs annually from October to April, during which the ports of Mombasa and Lamu receive international cruise vessels carrying thousands of visitors from around the world.

She said the cruise season plays a critical role in positioning Kenya as a premier coastal and tourism destination, while also strengthening the country’s presence on the global cruise tourism map.

“This not only promotes coastal tourism, local culture and unique destination experiences, but also supports national efforts to boost tourist arrivals and drive economic growth,” she said.

Chepkemei added that cruise tourism creates awareness of opportunities for local businesses, communities and other sector stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Corporation Secretary and General Manager for Board and Legal Services Turasha Kinyanjui, who represented Managing Director Captain William Ruto, said the Port of Mombasa remains a key gateway into the East African region.

He noted that KPA has invested heavily in modern tourist terminal facilities and pledged continued investment to support the growth of cruise tourism.

“We are ready to support business innovations and initiatives that enhance the tourism sector in the country,” Kinyanjui said.