By: Yunus S Saliu
The Gambia continues to strengthen its reputation as an emerging cruise tourism destination following the arrival of several international cruise ships between January 2024 and February 2026, bringing thousands of visitors to the country.
Hali Njie at the Gambia Tourism Board said the growing number of cruise ship calls reflects increasing international interest in the country, popularly known as the Smiling Coast of Africa, and highlights the role of cruise tourism in diversifying the national tourism industry.
The recent wave of cruise visits began on 30th January 2024, when the vessel Harmony G arrived with 11 passengers on board. Although small in number, the visit marked the beginning of a steady stream of cruise arrivals throughout the year.
Again, the ship returned on 4th February and 11th February 2024, bringing additional visitors who explored local attractions through organized excursions arranged by tour operators.
A significant boost came on 18th February 2024 when the cruise liner Spirit of Adventure docked with 816 passengers, one of the largest cruise arrivals early in the year.
In the months that followed, several other vessels included The Gambia on their itineraries. Among them were Azamara Pursuit, Seabourn Venture, Artania, Nautica, and Insignia, each bringing hundreds of passengers eager to experience Gambian culture, nature, and history.
One of the major arrivals occurred on 1st May 2024, when MS Zuiderdam arrived with 759 passengers on board.
Cruise activity intensified later in the year, particularly in November 2024, when several large ships visited within a short period. These included Seven Seas Voyager carrying 652 passengers, Seven Seas Splendor with 809 passengers, and Azamara Quest with 567 passengers.
The cruise ship Riviera recorded one of the highest passenger numbers during the period when it arrived on 25th November 2024 with 1,166 passengers.
The trend continued into 2025, beginning with the arrival of Azamara Pursuit on 1st January 2025, carrying 748 passengers.
Additional cruise liners calling at the country during the year included Seven Seas Navigator with 557 passengers, Oceania Sirena carrying 803 passengers, Azamara Journey with 781 passengers, and Seven Seas Voyager with 777 passengers.
The most recent arrival during the period occurred on 17th February 2026, when Azamara Journey returned to Gambian waters with 781 passengers, spending the day exploring various attractions before departing later in the evening.
Hali Njie, again, added that cruise ship arrivals provide important economic benefits for the country. Visitors participate in guided tours organized by local operators, visit markets, purchase locally made crafts, and experience Gambian cuisine and culture.
He explained that the tours often include visits to communities along the Gambia River, historical landmarks, cultural centers, and nature sites.
“Tour operators and shipping agents working with the cruise lines have played a key role in coordinating excursions and ensuring visitors enjoy their stay in the country,” he disclosed.
He added that the continued arrival of cruise ships placed The Gambia in a stronger position within the West African cruise tourism circuit, while also helping to promote the country internationally.
As global cruise travel continues to grow, tourism officials believe the country’s welcoming hospitality, cultural richness, and unique river landscape will remain strong attractions for future cruise visitors.
For many passengers arriving by sea, their short stop in The Gambia offers a memorable first encounter with the country, and a reminder of why it proudly carries the title – The Smiling Coast of Africa.
