FAQs
Pre-Arrival Boat: If entering at Kilifi, advance notice of arrival is requested. See Clearance for details.
Pre-Arrival Crew: A Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) must be applied for in advance. See Immigration for more details.
Where can I enter? Clear in at either Shimoni or Kilifi, as they are geared to facilitate yachts. Do not attempt to clear in at Mombasa as this is consistently problematic. Click on the anchor symbol in the blue “Explore Country” drop down, to see ports of entry.
Are fees high to enter by yacht? Yacht fees are in the region of USD$25, crew fees $32.50. See Fees for more details.
What security concerns should I know about? Some parts of the coast are not safe. See Security for more info.
Facts for Sailors
- The Republic of Kenya is located in the Eastern Africa region. Nairobi is Kenya's capital and largest city, while Mombasa, its oldest and second-largest city, is the major port city on Mombasa Island in the Indian Ocean.
- Kenya is renowned for its stunning landscapes, extensive wildlife sanctuaries, and rich cultural heritage.
- According to UN estimates, the population is around 54 million people. The official languages of Kenya are Swahili and English.
- The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES).
- Kenya observes Eastern Africa Time all year (UTC +3).
- The variations in altitude and terrain create the contrasts in climatic conditions. Kenya, an Equatorial country, enjoys pleasant and good weather year-round. See Weather for more details.
- Kenya has some 300 miles of coastline made up of beaches, mangrove swamps, and creeks. There are a number of designated Marine Parks, National Reserves and Conservation Areas so ensure you know where these are and the fees for visiting. See Reports for more information.
- Much of the coast is protected by coral reefs, which provide excellent diving, while the beaches are reputed to be the best in Africa.
- The most popular base for visiting yachts is Kilifi, north of Mombasa, where good repair facilities are available and a yacht can be left in reliable hands while touring the interior. Facilities in Mombasa, Kenya's chief port, are more limited.
- Although slowly improving, yachting facilities are still limited. However, provisioning is generally good and less expensive than the Indian Ocean islands. Diesel and LPG are also reasonably priced.
- The lights and buoys on the coast cannot be relied upon and entry anywhere is not advisable at night.
- For details of services for cruising boats see Yachting Essentials.
