Durban prepares for an exciting 2025/26 cruise season
Durban is gearing up for the 2025/26 cruise season.
Image: Supplied by eThekwini Municipality
The eThekwini Municipality says the city is getting ready for the bumper 2025/26 cruise season which runs from November 2025 to June 2026.
The City said in a statement on Monday that the season is expected to draw a surge of international visitors. The arrival of flagship vessels such as MSC Opera and Rennies Europa will mark the start of the season.
“Throughout the season, the city will welcome an impressive line-up of prestigious cruise ships, including Queen Mary II, Silver Dawn, Azamara Onward, and Seven Seas Navigator, each offering travellers memorable experiences steeped in Durban’s hospitality and vibrant heritage.”
Several vessels are expected to call on Durban during the season which runs from November 2025 to June 2026.
Image: Supplied by eThekwini Municipality
The municipality said building on last year’s strong performance, an estimated 255 000 cruise visitors are expected to arrive in the city, contributing directly around R762 million to Durban's economy.
“When considering the multiplier effect, including indirect and induced impacts, the total economic influence rises to about R1.12 billion. Overall, the combined direct, indirect, and induced contributions to Durban’s GDP are estimated at nearly R1.88 billion. These figures primarily stem from onshore spending by cruise visitors and are expected to support about 3 401 jobs while generating over R140.5 million in taxes for the city.”
As part of entertainment for the visitors there will be mini pop-up fashion shows, authentic cuisine offerings and craft displays, and storytelling that reflect the City’s vibrant identity.
EThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba said: “Durban is once again proud to stand at the forefront of global cruise tourism. This season exemplifies our unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, and authentic cultural experiences. We are confident that Durban will solidify its position as Africa’s premier cruise destination, driving economic growth and showcasing the unparalleled beauty and spirit of our City to the world.”
Vessel dockings:
• 23–26 November 2025: MSC Opera and Rennies Europa- Welcome activations
• 5 December 2025: MSC Oh Ship Cruise -Welcome with entertainment and giveaways
• 22 December 2025: Christmas carnival on MSC Opera
• 7 January 2026: New Year celebration with World Voyager and Inchcape
• 13 February 2026: Valentine’s Day welcome on MSC Opera
• 14 and 20 March 2026: Costa Deliziosa and MSC Opera visits
• 9 and 27 April 2026: Queen Mary 2 and Silver Dawn calls
• 7 May 2026: Azamara Onward welcome
• 6 June 2026: Season close-out with Seven Seas Navigator.