In partnership with the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA), Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism, and Buffalo City Tourism, South African Tourism recently hosted a two-day interprovincial cruise tourism workshop. Held in Gqeberha and East London on the 26 and 27 November 2024, the workshop brought together industry stakeholders to explore strategies for enhancing cruise tourism in these regional ports.
The initiative aimed to highlight the untapped potential of cruise tourism and foster collaboration between stakeholders to create offerings catering to cruise line passengers’ needs. With both Gqeberha and East London serving as key ports of entry, the workshop provided an invaluable platform for local businesses and organisations to align their efforts in strengthening the province’s position as a preferred cruise destination.
During the sessions, stakeholders discussed industry challenges, potential opportunities, and the specific requirements of cruise liners and tour operators. This exchange of information was instrumental in identifying practical steps to improve the overall cruise tourism experience.
The workshop underscored the importance of understanding passenger preferences and aligning local tourism products to meet these demands. The sessions also aimed to encourage innovation and collaboration in the tourism sector by equipping stakeholders with insights and tools.
