Cruise Tourism Generates R5.7 Billion for Western Cape Economy Over Four Seasons

Cruise tourism contributed a cumulative R5.7 billion to the Western Cape’s GDP over the past four cruise seasons, according to an economic impact study by StratEcon released on October 23.

The study reveals that the sector supported 7,875 annual full-time equivalent jobs, generated R2.76 billion in household income, and contributed R791 million to the national fiscus across the four-year period.

During the 2025/26 season, the Port of Cape Town and regional harbours welcomed 64 vessels, 106,240 passengers, and 37,200 crew members. This activity delivered R1.35 billion to provincial GDP, supported 1,700 full-time equivalent jobs locally, and recorded total industry expenditure of R1.47 billion. World cruises represented the largest GDP contributor, while ship calls at smaller harbours—including Mossel Bay, Hermanus, and Saldanha Bay—generated an additional R11.2 million in visitor spending. International passenger numbers remained above 2022/23 and 2023/24 levels despite seasonal Middle East route cancellations.

Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander stated that the R5.7 billion cumulative contribution highlights the results of public-private collaboration. She noted that regional focus is now shifting toward the newly established Southern Africa Cruise Alliance—partnering with Namibia, Angola, St Helena, and the Seychelles—to develop multi-country itineraries and expand regional cruise investment.

Cruise Cape Town also confirmed luxury operator Rovos Rail as its latest strategic partner to integrate maritime passenger arrivals with rail travel across South Africa. The 2026/27 season is under way following a plaque exchange with the SH Diana at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal.