SOUTH AFRICA : THE PoPE CLOSES A SUCCESSFUL CRUISE LINER SEASON

Transnet National Ports Authority’s Port of Port Elizabeth (PoPE) marks the end of a bumper cruise liner season with the arrival of the Seabourn Sojourn vessel. TNPA’s partnership with the City and other industry role-players yielded the desired results as evidenced by the number of cruise liner vessel calls received in the 2022/2023 season. The previous seasons were paused due to the pandemic, this season brought hope for recovery of tourism in the city.

A total of 33 vessels were scheduled to dock at the PoPE this season, the port exceeded its target by welcoming one more vessel, marking a total of 34 vessel calls.

“We implemented the unique process of utilizing the Charl Malan Quay which granted TNPA the capacity to accommodate passenger liners by maximizing the berth occupancy of the Quay. We also worked with terminal operators, who were receptive of TNPA’s plan for cruise liners at the Charl Malan Quay. This collaboration enabled TNPA to fulfil the demands of the cruise liners that docked at the PoPE without compromising on the daily operations of the Port. It also highly strengthened TNPA’s relations with its terminal operators” said Vuyani Ntsimango, Deputy Harbour Master: Port of Port Elizabeth.

The arrival of the the iconic Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner on the 5th of April 2023 was the highlight of the season. Queen Mary 2, being the seventh largest cruise ship in the world, last visited South African waters three years ago owing to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions on travelling.

“The cruise-liner season has restored confidence in positioning the City as a tourist destination which aligns with Transnet’s mission of being a focused freight transport company that delivers integrated, efficient, safe, reliable and cost-effective service to promote economic growth in South Africa” said Pamela Yoyo, Port Manager: NMB Ports.

 

Source : TNPA