THE Port of Durban has kicked off its 2024/25 cruise season by welcoming the majestic MSC Euribia to the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal, just in time for the holidays.

Acting Port of Durban manager Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi said the arrival of MSC EURIBIA marks a significant milestone in the port’s ongoing commitment to enhancing Durban’s stature as a premier cruise destination.

He said, “The Port of Durban is committed to further strengthening our reputation as a world-class cruise destination. We are focused on enhancing service quality and driving sustainable tourism growth, ultimately benefiting the local economy and community.”

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As per tradition, Captain Paolo Benini of MSC Euribia and Captain Matilda Lekala, deputy harbour master of the Port of Durban, exchanged plaques to mark this significant milestone. Ben-Mazwi said this exchange symbolises the beginning of a promising season, with the port set to welcome 47 call-ins from various passenger liners.

Cruise tourism plays a vital role in the economic landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, significantly contributing to the province’s tourism GDP. In the previous season, nearly 243 000 international visitors arrived in Durban via passenger liners, highlighting the city’s pivotal role as a gateway to South Africa.

The managing director of MSC Cruises South Africa, Ross Volk, said, “The R300-million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban is one of only two ports in South Africa equipped to accommodate such a large vessel. This made the terminal the perfect site for MSC Euribia’s technical stop. This marks the official start of the local cruise season, and as MSC Cruises, we look forward to welcoming avid cruisers, and those new to cruising on board, throughout the summer. MSC Musica, the vessel that will service South Africa for the local season, will kick off her time on local waters on November 22.”