New details have emerged about the luxury yacht Salt – White Bay, which docked in Kilifi town on November 6, 2025. Reports had claimed that the yacht was seized over illegal weapons, but Kilifi Commissioner Josphat Biwott has strongly denied these claims.

Speaking to a local radio station on Monday, November 10, 2025, Commissioner Josphat Biwott said the yacht was detained because it lacked clearance from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

“The yacht is fine. The issue was an oversight. It has been seized because there was no clearance with KPA,” he explained.

The yacht carried six foreign tourists, who were found with legally owned weapons after inspection by marine security officers.

“There is no yacht that sails without protection. The weapons were for their safety in case of a pirate attack,” said Biwott.

The tourists are visiting Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks and are expected to leave for Madagascar on November 14.

Patricia Buri-Sector, commander of the Tourism Police unit in the Coast region, confirmed the tourists’ itinerary and assured that the vessel posed no threat.

“The yacht is from Dubai. It has different nationalities, and from here, they will be leaving here on 14th of November. They will be going to Madagascar. It means a lot of growth and development and the port area is now opening up for more businesses.”

“Because we are now able to host different nationalities and more visitors from the outside community who have come to interact with us and bring new ideas that can empower the community.”

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro welcomed the arrival of high-end tourists, noting the economic benefits.

“We welcome tourists and urge them to invest in Kilifi,” he said.

Luxury yacht draws crowds

The yacht itself has captured public attention. Measuring 62 metres, Salt was built in Italy by CRN shipyard and delivered in 2020. Originally named Voice, it was renamed after a change of ownership. Designed by Nuvolari Lenard, the yacht combines strong exterior lines with elegant interiors.

Salt can accommodate up to 12 guests in six staterooms. It has a steel hull for stability and long-range endurance, paired with an aluminium superstructure for efficiency. Powered by two MTU diesel engines, the yacht can reach 16 knots and cruise comfortably at 15 knots.

The vessel ranks among the top 5 per cent of yachts worldwide in its size category. Its interiors include social spaces, sun decks, and private suites, offering guests a high level of comfort. The yacht has attracted locals and visitors alike, who have flocked to the Kilifi coastline to admire it.