Cruise tourism has contributed a cumulative R5.7 billion to the Western Cape’s GDP over the past four seasons. This is according to a new economic impact study by StratEcon, released at Cruise Cape Town’s Annual Review 2026.

Cruise Tourism contributes billions to Provincial Economy

The 2025/26 cruise season saw Cape Town and the Western Cape welcome 64 vessels, 106,240 passengers, and 37,200 crew members. Despite receiving cancellations during the season, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the international passenger numbers remained above 2022/23 and 2023/24 levels. The Port of Cape Town was also named Africa’s Leading Cruise Port at the World Travel Awards for the fourth consecutive year.

Key findings from the economic impact study highlight:

Over four seasons (2022/23 to 2025/26):

R5.7 billion contributed to the Western Cape’s GDP
7,875 annual full-time equivalent jobs supported
R2.76 billion generated in household income
R791 million contributed to the national fiscus

In the 2025/26 season:

R1.35 billion contributed to the Western Cape’s GDP
R1.47 billion in total industry expenditure
1,700 full-time equivalent jobs supported in the Western Cape and 2,151 nationally

The study also found that the 2025/26 season recorded the second-highest number of embarking and disembarking passengers to date, highlighting the region’s appeal as a premier cruise destination. World cruises remained the largest contributor to GDP, while ship calls at the province’s smaller harbours, including Mossel Bay, Hermanus and Saldanha Bay, generated a further R11.2 million in visitor spending.

World cruises remained the largest contributor to GDP

The CEO of Wesgro, Wrenelle Stander, said: “A cumulative contribution of R5.7 billion over four seasons shows what is possible when government, industry and private sector partners work together to unlock tourism growth. We look forward to our collaboration with tourism stakeholders across Southern Africa, as we work together to position the region as a competitive, must-visit cruise destination.

The 2026/27 cruise season is now well underway

Meanwhile, the Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Ivan Meyer, said: “Cruise tourism is a clear example of the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy in action. Over four seasons, the sector has generated R2.76 billion in household income, supporting economic growth and creating jobs across the province.”

Unlocking tourism growth

The Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth at the City of Cape Town, James Vos, added: “Cruise tourism is an important part of growing Cape Town’s economy and strengthening our position as a leading destination. Every ship that docks brings visitors who spend money at our attractions, restaurants, shops and local businesses. By growing this sector, we can create more opportunities for small businesses, support local communities and move closer to our vision of a job in every home.” The 2026/27 cruise season is now well underway.