Kenya's cruise tourism industry achieved a huge milestone on Sunday, October 26, after the arrival of the luxury expedition liner SH Diana at the newly constructed Shimoni Port in Kwale County.
The arrival of the luxury expedition marked the first-ever cruise ship to call at the South Coast facility in a landmark moment for the country's maritime sector.
According to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the vessel, which is operated by Swan Hellenic Expeditions and flies the Panamanian flag, brought 500 passengers and crew who are set to enjoy various tourism activities on the Kenyan coast, including snorkelling, excursions, and tours of Kwale’s national parks.
About the SH Diana
Built at Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, the SH Diana is a 125-metre-long luxury expedition ship which was launched in 2023.
It is the largest and most advanced vessel in Swan Hellenic's fleet and can accommodate up to 192 guests in 96 staterooms and suites.
A considerable number of the cabins feature private balconies, which are supported by a crew of around 140 staff.
Further, the ship features a Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened hull, a hybrid-ready diesel-electric propulsion system and advanced environmental technology.
Among the onboard amenities inside the ship are a spa, sauna, gym, heated outdoor pool, an observation lounge and an expedition laboratory.
In terms of design, the vessel is built with a Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened hull, which allows it to navigate safely through polar and tropical waters.
Because of its robust design, it remains reliable and stable in some of the world's most challenging environments. It is also powered by a hybrid-ready diesel-electric propulsion system engineered to reduce emissions and minimise environmental impact.
SH Diana’s visit to Shimoni represents a major step in positioning Kenya’s southern coastline as a new destination for luxury and expedition cruises.
Previously, the ship made calls to the ports of Mombasa and Lamu, becoming a familiar name along the Kenyan coast.
If such visits are sustained, such visits could position Kenya as the premier cruise tourism hub in the Western Indian Ocean, connecting itineraries that span Zanzibar, Pemba, Madagascar, and beyond.
