Faq
General Cruise Questions
Where can I book a cruise in Kenya?
You can book your cruise directly with Cruises by Bob, Nairobi’s trusted cruise travel agency. We specialize in worldwide itineraries with Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian, Princess, Celebrity, Azamara, and more. We handle everything — from reservations to advice on visas, flights, and pre-cruise arrangements.
Do cruises depart from Kenya?
There are some that depart from Mombasa, but at the moment, most cruises for Kenyan travelers depart from international ports such as Dubai, Singapore, Barcelona, Miami, Cape Town, or Southampton. We arrange the full package for you, including flights from Nairobi or Mombasa to the cruise embarkation port.
What destinations can I visit on a cruise?
Cruises cover Dubai & the Arabian Gulf, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Alaska, Asia (Japan, Singapore, Thailand), Europe (Greek Isles, Baltic, Northern Europe), Australia & New Zealand, Africa (Cape Town & Indian Ocean islands), and more.
Pricing & Booking
How much does a cruise cost from Kenya?
Prices vary depending on the cruise line, season, ship, and destination. Budget-friendly options start from about USD 400–600 per person for shorter itineraries (3–4 nights), while longer or luxury cruises can range from USD 1,200–3,000+ per person. Cruises by Bob provides clear pricing in both USD and KES equivalent on request.
What is included in a cruise fare?
Standard fares include accommodation, meals at main restaurants, entertainment, kids’ clubs, and most onboard activities. Extras may include specialty dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, gratuities, spa treatments, and flights. Cruises by Bob always highlights what’s included and excluded before you book.
Can I pay for my cruise in installments?
Yes. Most cruise lines allow deposit + installment payments until the final balance is due. We help Kenyan clients set up flexible payment plans so you can secure your cruise early and pay gradually with lipa pole pole.
Travel Documents & Logistics
Do I need a visa for a cruise?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and cruise itinerary. For example:
Dubai cruises: UAE visa required
Europe cruises: Schengen visa required.
USA/Caribbean cruises: US visa required.
Cruises by Bob provides visa guidance and packages that include flight + visa assistance.
Can I fly from Nairobi and connect to a cruise abroad?
Absolutely. Most of our clients fly from Nairobi (NBO) or Mombasa (MBA) to the embarkation port. We package flights + transfers + cruise for a smooth experience.
What is the best time of year to cruise from Kenya?
It depends on your destination:
Dubai/Arabian Gulf: November–March
Mediterranean/Europe: April–October
Caribbean: Year-round, best Dec–April
Alaska: May–September
South Africa/Indian Ocean: December–March
Families & Groups
Are cruises family-friendly?
Yes! Most cruise ships have kids’ clubs, pools, waterparks, teen zones, and family cabins. Cruises by Bob often books families for school holiday cruises (December, April, August).
Can I book a cruise for a group from Kenya?
Yes. We specialize in group cruises for families, corporate incentives, weddings, and church groups. Group bookings often qualify for discounts and perks like free cabins.
Onboard Experience
What is life like onboard a cruise ship?
Imagine a floating resort: world-class dining, theaters, casinos, shopping, spas, swimming pools, waterslides, kids’ zones, gyms, and live entertainment every evening. There’s something for every age group.
Is food included on a cruise?
Yes, main dining and buffet restaurants are included. Specialty dining (steakhouses, sushi bars, chef’s tables) may cost extra.
What should I pack for a cruise?
Comfortable casual clothes, swimwear, evening outfits for formal nights, travel adapters, and essentials like sunscreen and motion-sickness medication. Cruises by Bob provides a packing checklist with every booking.
Payments & Currency
Can I pay in Kenyan Shillings?
Yes. While cruise lines bill in USD/EUR, we provide the KES equivalent and accept payment in Kenyan Shillings through bank transfer or MPESA Paybill.
Does the ship accept MPESA?
Onboard purchases are charged to your cruise account, usually linked to a credit/debit card. MPESA is not directly accepted onboard, but we help you set up payment options before departure.
