With a year-round season, Darwin’s cruise business is stable as the port remains a homeport for small expedition ships sailing Australia’s northern coastline for Arnhem Land and the Kimberley region.

“Last year, we welcomed the Silver Discoverer on her maiden voyage, and she returns at the end of this season for Kimberley itineraries,” said Richard Schoonraad, manager of market development for Tourism NT. “We will also welcome the Caledonia Sky and Queen Mary 2, which is coming just after the official cruise season in May.”

For cruise ships sailing to Australia from Asia, Darwin is usually the first port of call thanks to its central location on Australia’s northern coastline.

“On circumnavigations of Australia, Darwin is a popular port as there are usually two or three days at sea either side of us,” added Schoonraad.

This 2014/2015 season, a new bunkering company will start service in Darwin, and the harbor approach has been dredged from 10 meters to 14.

“Every cruise vessel is met by a team of volunteer tourism ambassadors at the Darwin Cruise Ship Terminal,” Schoonraad continued. “These happy volunteers are on hand to answer questions about the town, distribute maps and tourism information and generally provide a friendly welcome to all visitors.”