The tourism industry in Mombasa received a major boost on Christmas eve after a cruise ship MS Nautica docked at the Port of Mombasa with 1,048 tourists on board. 

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The cruise ship was sailing from Seychelles to Mombasa, Zanzibar and later South Africa. 

It is expected to make another stop in Mombasa on February 3, 2019 during its return journey. 

The cruise ship docks at a time hotels at the Coast are registering nearly 100 percent occupancy during this festive season, according to hoteliers. 

Cruise ship tourists are considered high spenders. Tourism stakeholders in the region are upbeat that the 13-hour stay of the vessel at the port of Mombasa will bring good tidings to the sector. 

"Cruise tourism will play a significant role in increasing tourism numbers in Mombasa and the country at large," read a statement from the County's Tourism department on Monday.

Cruise ships bring in tourists in big numbers at one go. 

"As a destination we are endeavoring to ensure that the tourists fall in love with our destination so that in future they can come in as individuals with family and friends."

Replenishing of cruise ship consumables also provides a huge opportunity for local supplies. The completion of the ultra modern cruise ship terminal will allow the port to receive cruise ships with bigger capacities. 

"However, we must all take concerted efforts to market this modern facility. We should not build and wait."

The department said it will partner with the Kenya Tourism Board, Kenya Ports Authority and other stakeholders to conduct aggressive, targeted marketing for cruise ships.

"If properly executed, our marketing efforts should deliver over 100 ships a year."

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