Namibia advances cruise tourism
The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) led the country’s delegation to Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, held in Miami, as part of efforts to position Namibia as a competitive and sustainable cruise destination.
As the coordinating body of the delegation, NTB led engagements with international cruise industry stakeholders, promoted Namibia’s tourism offering and facilitated high-level meetings aimed at expanding opportunities for the tourism and maritime sectors.
Building on previous participation, the board used the platform to raise Namibia’s visibility in the global cruise market, with particular focus on the ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz as emerging destinations with sustainability credentials and distinctive visitor experiences.
Speaking at the event, NTB chief executive Sebulon Chicalu said Seatrade Cruise Global provided an important platform to showcase Namibia’s tourism potential and strengthen relationships with international operators.
“Seatrade Cruise Global provided NTB with a platform to showcase Namibia’s tourism potential and strengthen relationships with global cruise operators. Our role was to ensure that Namibia was positioned competitively, while promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism growth,” he said.
The Namibian delegation held meetings with major cruise operators, including TUI Cruises, Azamara Cruises and Marella Cruises, as part of efforts to secure greater inclusion of Namibia on international cruise itineraries.
NTB also facilitated business meetings, networking sessions and industry engagements for local stakeholders to support partnership development and market exposure.
According to NTB spokesperson Flora Quest, the board worked with national partners including Namport, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Walvis Bay Municipality, Lüderitz Waterfront and private tourism operators to ensure a coordinated national presence.
Quest said a key development highlighted at the event was Namport’s recent membership of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which she described as a significant milestone for Namibia’s cruise sector. The affiliation is expected to strengthen Namibia’s position within the global cruise industry and create further opportunities for collaboration.
She said NTB’s participation aimed to strengthen Namibia’s positioning as a sustainable cruise destination, promote investment in tourism and port infrastructure, and support the development of cruise itineraries featuring the country.
Seatrade Cruise Global is regarded as one of the most influential events in the international cruise industry. Namibia’s participation underscored its broader strategy to grow tourism, expand global partnerships and strengthen its presence in the cruise market.
