The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) concluded an agreement earlier this year, which will see the KwaZulu-Natal Cruise Terminal Pty Ltd (KCT) finance, construct, operate, maintain and transfer a new cruise terminal facility in the Port of Durban by October 2020.

TNPA Chief Executive, Shulami Qalinge, said:

We are delighted to have concluded terms that will bring benefits to all parties, but most importantly to the City of Durban, and South Africa as a growing cruise destination. In doing so, we will truly be positioning Durban as a ‘Smart Port City’, and a world-class cruise capital.

Managing Director of Southern Africa 360, Collin Thaver, believes the new terminal, will boost tourism to the city and beyond, as visitors may disembark and add another South African experience to their trip, such as a safari.

This will also open doors for local operators to offer more than just the norm. We see this happening regularly with the liners that come into Cape Town.

Agreeing with Thaver, Adele Oelofse, Revenue and Marketing Manager at Ghost Mountain Inn in Mkuze, commented:

With the new terminal starting operations in late 2020, this will have a huge effect on tourism for 2020/2021 onwards.

Annual cruise vessel calls to Durban and passenger numbers are projected to increase substantially as a result of the new terminal’s construction, enabling the city to further develop as an international tourist destination.

The new ‘green’ and energy-efficient terminal will boast a number of new features and facilities, allowing for simultaneous embarkation and disembarkation of passengers on multiple vessels. Parking will be provided, catering for an estimated 200 vehicles, with kerbside drop-off facilities for 12 buses, dedicated baggage drop-off areas, separate screening and temporary holding areas, as well as separate passenger entry and exit points.

Transnet SOC Limited Group Chief Executive, Siyabonga Gama, concluded:

In a few years, we will witness the rise of a much-needed brand-new cruise terminal for Durban. In its wake, jobs will be created, new technologies implemented and tourism numbers boosted for Durban and for our country.

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