The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) has recorded a 87 per cent increase in passenger vessel calls for 2022/2023 in comparison to the 2021/2022 financial year.

The increase in passenger vessels, according to the authority’s Corporate Communications Manager, Taná Pesat, in a media statement, is attributed to the maritime industry’s positive strides towards recovery from the recent pandemic that had negatively impacted holiday-makers' traveling as a result of the travel restrictions.

To add to the number of vessel calls, Namport on Monday welcomed the Silver Shadow Nassau Passenger vessel on its maiden voyage at the Port of Walvis Bay.

“The recently renovated vessel that entered service in the year 2000, operated by Silversea Cruises has a carrying capacity of 382 passengers, and 295 crew members.

A plaque exchange ceremony was held on-board the vessel between Namport’s Port Captain, Lukas Kufuna and the ship’s Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri to commemorate the maiden call,” Pesat noted.

Speaking during the ceremony, Palmieri commended the construction of the passenger berth at the Port of Walvis Bay.

“This is a welcomed addition to the already exceptional existing infrastructure of the ports authority and Walvis Bay in particular remains a preferred tourist destination due to its beautiful landscapes,” he said.

The over 300 passengers disembarked the passenger vessel to participate in day tours that included shopping, quad biking activities in the dunes, drives to Sandwich Harbour and local excursions, among others.

Last week, the Queen Mary 2 passenger vessel carrying over 2000 passengers, also docked at the Port of Walvis Bay.

The port is expected to receive four more passenger vessels between now until May 2023, before the cruise season ends until November.

Namport reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all passenger liners visiting Namibia do so in a safe and welcoming manner, as these same visitors contribute immensely to the country’s economy at large.

Source: NAMPA