Published by on

Quantum class cruise liner Anthem of the Seas recently graced Cape Town’s Cruise Terminal with its presence, becoming the largest cruise ship ever to visit a South African port, reports Cape {town} Etc.

Also read: Western Cape economy gets R1.32 billion boost, courtesy of cruise season

The 168 666 gross ton mega-ship – the fifth largest luxury passenger ship in the world – made a technical stop in the Mother City for fuel and provisions, before departing last week to continue around the southern tip of Africa toward its winter homeport Singapore.

Anthem of the Seas’ arrival made history, not only for being the largest passenger ship to dock in a South African port but also for highlighting Cape Town’s growing reputation as a desirable cruise destination, exclaimed City’s MMC for Economic Growth James Vos.

In fact, as per Cruise Arabia & Africa, Anthem of the Seas operator, Royal Caribbean International, recently announced that it is re-entering the South African cruise market with cruise liner Voyager of the Seas expected to sail a Cape Town itinerary in late 2025.

The 3 430-guest ship will set sail from Barcelona, Spain, on 27 October, and is expected to arrive in Cape Town in mid-November as part of its 14-night cruise. Voyager of the Seas will then sail a 17-night cruise from Cape Town to Singapore, visiting Reunion and Mauritius, as well as Port Elizabeth.

Anthem of the Seas’ historic arrival came just ahead of what is expected to be a bumper cruise season bringing in a total of 88 cruise ships and contributing to an forecasted influx of over 130 000 passengers.

‘Every visit pumps R100 million into our local economy – that’s jobs, business opportunities and growth for Cape Town!’ added Vos.

‘Here’s to an unforgettable season of growth, adventure and endless possibilities ahead.’

Also read:

CT’s port honoured as Africa’s leading cruise port at World Travel Awards

Picture: @VosJames / X

Article written by