By Yunus S Saliu
The cruise vessel Regent Seven Seas Navigator arrived at the Port of Banjul on Thursday carrying 544 passengers, providing a further boost to The Gambia’s growing cruise tourism sector.
The Bahamas-registered vessel docked at about 1215 GMT and was welcomed by tourism officials and cultural performers showcasing Gambian traditions and hospitality.
Speaking during the reception ceremony, Ebrima A.K. Sanyang, Senior Officer for Research and Development at the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard), said the vessel forms part of an international cruise itinerary that includes several destinations worldwide, with The Gambia remaining one of its ports of call.
He said passengers were scheduled to participate in guided tours of tourist attractions across the country. The excursions were organised by West African Tours, while OM Shipping acted as the vessel’s local agent.
Sanyang said the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the GTBoard and the government are continuing efforts to increase cruise ship arrivals through marketing campaigns and partnerships with international cruise operators.
According to him, cruise tourism has recorded growth since engagements between tourism authorities and cruise industry stakeholders in Dakar, Senegal, aimed at encouraging vessels visiting the Senegalese capital to include Banjul on their itineraries.
He added that the GTBoard has also stepped up promotional activities in Miami, a major global cruise tourism centre, to attract more cruise vessels to The Gambia.
Sanyang said the country is expecting about 6,656 cruise tourists from 14 scheduled cruise ship calls in 2026.
He disclosed that 4,123 cruise passengers have already visited The Gambia this year, with additional arrivals expected between September and December.
The tourism official also highlighted the need for improvements to facilities at the Port of Banjul, including enhanced security and infrastructure upgrades to improve visitor experience and accommodate larger vessels.
He said the government’s tourism strategy focuses on promoting year-round tourism through air, land and sea arrivals, noting that cruise tourism has the potential to generate significant visitor numbers.
The arrival of the Regent Seven Seas Navigator reflects ongoing efforts to diversify The Gambia’s tourism industry and strengthen its position as a cruise tourism destination in West Africa.
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