Albany opened a new ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) center in late 2014, which is dedicated to telling the story of over 41,000 Australians and New Zealanders who left Albany bound for the First World War.

Also big news for the port was the arrival of MSC Cruises with the MSC Orchestra earlier this year.

Accommodating cruise passengers is a free shuttle bus to the town center and key local attractions. Taxis get access to the wharf area for customers with mobility issues, according to Gail Hastie, executive officer for the Southern Ports Authority and the Port of Albany.

A 12 ship season expected for 2015-2016 is one-upping an 11 ship year in 2014-2015, and passengers can land in the place that was the first European settlement in Western Australia. There are also insights into the ancient Noongar culture for visitors to explore.