Seychelles Unveils Seven-Year Cruise Tourism Strategy with SCR 2.32 Billion Investment Framework
Seychelles has formally validated and handed over its Cruise Tourism Strategy 2026 - 2033, marking the culmination of a two-year analytical and consultative process aimed at positioning the island nation as a high-value, sustainable cruise destination. The strategy was developed in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and presented to a high-level government delegation including Minister for Tourism and Culture Amanda Bernstein and several principal secretaries spanning tourism, blue economy, civil aviation, and investment portfolios. It is underpinned by a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis confirming a net positive economic contribution from the cruise sector, while acknowledging significant environmental and social pressures associated with high-volume visitor arrivals.
The strategy sets out priorities including upgraded port infrastructure, strengthened environmental safeguards, improved data systems, and greater participation of local businesses in the cruise value chain - addressing findings that only a small proportion of cruise passenger expenditure is currently retained within the domestic economy. An indicative investment requirement of SCR 2.32 billion is proposed, to be mobilised through a blended financing approach combining public funding, public-private partnerships, development partners, and industry contributions. Principal Secretary for Tourism Sherin Francis noted that the strategy reflects a critical step in balancing growth with sustainability, emphasising that Seychelles stands to benefit significantly more from the sector through stronger regulation, improved coordination, and reduced revenue leakage.
Source: Tourism Seychelles
