Port information & tips for Mombasa
Mombasa is Kenya's fascinating gateway to the Indian Ocean and a history-steeped metropolis with a unique blend of African zest for life and Arabic heritage. Situated on a coral island, the city radiates an incomparable oriental flair thanks to its winding alleys and the scent of exotic spices. Impressive highlights in the immediate vicinity include the imposing Fort Jesus, the picturesque "Old Town", and the iconic Elephant Tusks on Moi Avenue. Cruise ships dock at the modern Mombasa Cruise Terminal at Berth 1 in the Port of Kilindini, from where the vibrant city center and cultural treasures are easily accessible within a short drive of around ten minutes.
Mombasa is an attractive starting point for cruises in East Africa thanks to its modern cruise terminal and good connections to the international airport. The well-organized terminal in Kilindini Harbour is located close to the city center and is perfectly prepared for international guests.
Airplane
Moi International Airport (MBA) is the nearest airport and is located only about 10 to 16 kilometers from the cruise terminal. It is served by various international airlines, including Swiss. The travel time to the port is usually 15 to 25 minutes. Due to the long journey from the DACH region, we recommend arriving at least one day before the planned embarkation to start your cruise adventure in a relaxed manner.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Moi International Airport (MBA), you can easily reach the cruise terminal by taxi or private transfer services. Many providers monitor flight times and offer a reliable door-to-door service. Shuttles are also available from the Mombasa SGR Terminus, the train station for the connection from Nairobi, which will take you to the port in about an hour.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free start to your cruise, an overnight stay in one of the hotels in Mombasa or the nearby beaches such as Nyali or Diani Beach is ideal. Numerous accommodations offer comfortable stays and often airport transfers as well, so you arrive at the terminal well-rested and on time on embarkation day. The cruise terminal itself also offers free parking on its north and south sides, including multi-story garages.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
