Cape Town has become a popular destination for cruise tourism, with 70 ships bringing in 145,000 passengers and 42,000 crew members during its most fruitful season to date. The Cape Town Cruise Terminal has infused R1.2 billion into the provincial economy, turning it into a key player in the global cruise industry. The city’s strategy includes attracting environmentallyconscious cruise ships and encouraging ecofriendly practices within the industry, such as the use of smaller expedition ships, which cater to the demand for undisturbed landscapes and authenticity while minimizing environmental impact.
Cape Town and the Western Cape have experienced a recordbreaking cruise tourism season between October 2022 and May 2023, establishing the region as a top destination for luxury cruise holidays. Highspending tourists from the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom have contributed to the success of the season.