The 2025–2026 cruise ship season officially ended on Saturday, 27 June 2026, with a fitting celebration that coincided with the maiden call of Cruise Ship M/V Viking Yidun to Port Victoria. To commemorate this occasion, an official ceremony was held at Mahe Quay in the presence of the Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Mr David Bianchi, and Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs Sherin Francis.
The Seychelles Ports Authority (SPA) and the Tourism Department reflected on a productive cruise season that welcomed visitors from around the world, providing valuable economic opportunities for local businesses, tour operators, transport providers, and artisans which shows strong collaboration among public and private sector partners in continuing to enhance Seychelles’ reputation as a safe and welcoming cruise destination.
“One of the highlights of the season was the arrival of eight maiden cruise ship calls, welcoming new operators and strengthening Seychelles’ reputation within the international cruise industry. These first visits are more than ceremonial occasions – they represent growing confidence in Seychelles as a preferred cruise destination and create new opportunities for future partnerships,” said PS David Bianchi during his remarks.
As per usual practice during a maiden call, there was a gift exchange between the different stakeholders and the vessel’s Master Mariner, Captain Henrik Alexander Sehlstedt. The ceremony was also attended by the Mayor of Victoria, Ms Josy Michaud-Payet,
representatives from the SPA, the Ministry for Tourism, Destination Management Companies (DMC), the vessel’s agent, Mahe Shipping, and other partners who contribute to the smooth operation of cruise tourism in Seychelles.
As the final cruise ship of the season departed Port Victoria, the close of the 2025–2026 season served as both a celebration of achievements and an opportunity to look ahead. With new partnerships forged and continued investment in port and tourism services, Seychelles remains well positioned to welcome even more cruise vessels and visitors during the upcoming 2026–2027 cruise season.
