The world-renowned cruise liner Queen Anne, operated by Cunard Cruise Lines, arrived in Cape Town on 10 April.
This is indeed the first time the vessel has docked in Cape Town.
Beyond the immediate tourism boost, the cruising industry has positive ripple effects for Cape Town.
The sector benefits tour operators and transport services, restaurants, hotels and retailers, amongst others.
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CUNARD’S QUEEN ANNE DOCKS IN CAPE TOWN
As the 14th ship in Cunard’s history to complete a full world voyage, and the largest to do so with nearly 3000 guests onboard, the Queen Anne’s visit is a true celebration of global cruise tourism.
The Queen Anne pulled into Cape Town after making a call in Durban the previous week.
Visiting these two ports of call in South Africa was a milestone for the cruise liner and for the two South African cities.
The Queen Anne is currently on her 107-night maiden world voyage from Southampton.
The liner has called at 29 ports across 19 countries.
The Queen Anne’s arrival marks yet another significant milestone for Cape Town’s growing cruise industry, as Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria docked together for the first time last year.
These landmark visits underscore the city’s rising prominence as a world-class cruise destination.
Cruise Cape Town, powered by Wesgro, expected a strong cruise season this year, with 24 ship calls scheduled at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal in March.
Overall, 76 ship calls are so far scheduled for the 2024/25 season, which ends in June. This figure has increased from 67 ships last season.
This will help bring thousands of visitors to the region, providing a welcome boost for tourism and businesses across the region.
During the 2023/24 season, cruise tourism contributed R1.32 billion to the regional economy, up from R1.2 billion in the previous period.
The total expenditure generated by vessels and passengers reached R1.5 billion, surpassing the R1.4 billion recorded the year before.
March has traditionally been a key month for cruise tourism, with Cape Town’s late-summer weather making it a popular stop on international cruise routes.
Many ships also reposition between hemispheres during this time, making Cape Town an attractive destination for operators and travellers alike.
“The growth in cruise arrivals this March highlights Cape Town’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination,” said Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape.
