The Gambia Tourism Board and Gambia Tours welcomed the luxury expedition cruise ship SH Diana to Banjul Sea Port on September 18, 2026. The vessel, operated by Swan Hellenic, arrived with 138 passengers as part of its West African cruise itinerary. This visit is part of Gambia's efforts to attract cruise vessels and promote itself as a destination for international cruise tourism.
The SH Diana is a luxury expedition cruise ship that combines comfortable accommodation with expedition-style travel. It currently sails under the Liberian flag, having been initially registered under the Panamanian flag when delivered in March 2023, before transferring to the Liberian registry in February 2024. The ship's design allows it to travel to destinations around the world in style.
Upon arrival, passengers had the opportunity to explore Gambia's tourism attractions and experience the country's culture and hospitality. The ship departed Banjul later on Friday at 4:30 p.m. Local tourism operators, guides, transport providers, artisans, and other businesses stand to benefit from cruise tourism, which is growing in Gambia.
The arrival of SH Diana adds to the increasing number of international cruise vessels calling at Gambia. The Gambia Tourism Board, in collaboration with tourism stakeholders, continues to promote the country as an attractive destination for international visitors seeking cultural, historical, and nature-based experiences.
The Gambia's efforts to boost cruise tourism are ongoing, with the goal of showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions to a wider audience. The visit of SH Diana is a significant step in this direction, highlighting Gambia's potential as a cruise tourism destination.
The SH Diana's West African cruise itinerary includes stops in various countries, providing passengers with a unique opportunity to experience the region's diverse cultures and landscapes. Gambia's inclusion in this itinerary underscores its growing importance as a tourist destination.
The Gambia Tourism Board's partnership with Gambia Tours and other stakeholders has made the visit of SH Diana possible. The board will continue to work with tourism operators to promote Gambia as a premier destination for cruise passengers and international visitors.
Key points
- The luxury expedition cruise ship SH Diana arrived in Gambia with 138 passengers on board.
- The ship's visit is part of Gambia's efforts to attract cruise vessels and promote itself as a destination for international cruise tourism.
- The arrival of SH Diana adds to the growing number of international cruise vessels calling at Gambia, benefiting local tourism operators and businesses.
