By: Yunus S Saliu
The luxury cruise ship Oceania Vista on Tuesday made its maiden call at the Port of Banjul with 663 tourists on board as part of its international voyage from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The vessel, owned by Oceania Cruises, a subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings based in Miami, United States, was welcomed by the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) in partnership with West African Tours.
Passengers and crew received a traditional Gambian welcome featuring kora and balafon performances at the seaport.
Officials of the tourism board, led by Director General Ida Jeng Njie, later toured the vessel and exchanged symbolic gifts with the ship’s management. GTBoard presented a “Smiling Coast” souvenir to the crew, while the captain of Oceania Vista handed over a commemorative plaque marking the ship’s first visit to The Gambia.
Speaking to journalists after the visit, Jeng Njie described the arrival of the vessel as an important boost for The Gambia’s tourism industry.
“This vessel started its journey in Miami and has made stops in several destinations, including South Africa, Cape Verde, Abidjan and The Gambia before continuing to Europe,” she said.
She added that the country was seeking to strengthen its position in the growing global cruise tourism market.
According to the tourism official, the number of cruise vessels calling at The Gambia has increased in recent years as authorities intensify efforts to attract more international cruise operators.
Jeng Njie said feedback from passengers and crew members had been positive, with many praising Gambian hospitality.
“Our hospitality remains one of our greatest strengths,” she said after interacting with visitors aboard the vessel.
She noted that cruise tourism creates economic opportunities for local businesses, including craft vendors, tour operators and communities benefiting from visitor spending during shore excursions.
“When passengers come ashore, they buy locally made products, use tour services and visit attractions across the country,” she added.
The Director General described The Gambia as a “value-for-money destination” because of its affordability, hospitality and tourism potential.
She disclosed that the country was expected to exceed its projected number of cruise ship arrivals for the current tourism season, with additional vessels scheduled to arrive before the season ends.
“We are working closely with stakeholders to ensure that more cruise ships choose The Gambia as a destination,” she said.
The arrival of Oceania Vista highlights ongoing efforts by Gambian tourism authorities to diversify tourism products and strengthen the country’s position as an emerging cruise tourism destination in West Africa.