Cape Town has reported its strongest cruise season on record, with a preliminary report from the Western Cape Cruise Liner Industry revealing a 35 per cent increase in cruise tourism revenue for 2024/25.
Between September 2024 and June 2025, the province welcomed 79 cruise ships, totalling 83 calls, up 18 per cent year-on-year. Passenger traffic surged 16 per cent to 127,000, driving expenditure across hotels, restaurants, retail and attractions.
The cruise sector contributed R1.79 billion to the Western Cape’s GDP, compared with R1.32 billion in 2023/24. Combined passenger and vessel spending climbed 32 per cent to R1.99 billion, reinforcing cruise tourism as a key economic driver for the province.
Jobs and regional benefits
According to the report, the sector supported 1,234 direct full-time equivalent jobs and 2,345 when multiplier effects were included. Retail and markets absorbed the largest share at 44 per cent, followed by hotels and restaurants (27 per cent), and tour operators and services (9 per cent).
Nationally, nearly 3,000 jobs were supported by the sector, with international visitors accounting for two-thirds of passenger spending.
Smaller towns including Mossel Bay, Hermanus and Saldanha Bay also benefited, welcoming 32,000 passengers on 26 ship calls and generating R47.5 million in local spending.
Industry leaders highlight momentum
Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander called it “a successful year for Cape Town and the Western Cape’s cruise industry,” noting the sector’s importance for job creation and sustainable growth.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said the results underline the cruise industry’s role in strengthening local businesses.
“The growth of the sector signals global confidence in our destination,” he said.
Cape Town Mayco member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, praised the economic contribution of each ship call, while V&A Waterfront CEO David Green described the city’s Cruise Terminal as one of the most attractive globally.
Captain Alex Miya, Acting Port Manager at Transnet National Ports Authority, added that Cape Town is now firmly established as the centre of South Africa’s cruise expansion.
Looking ahead to another strong season
Long-haul world cruises represented 42 calls during the 2024/25 season, highlighting Cape Town’s status as a fixture on international itineraries. With more than 70 vessels scheduled for the coming season, the arrival of luxury ship The World has already set the tone for another record-breaking year.
