The Explorer Dream will sail into the Port of Newcastle for the first time on Monday, port officials said in a statement.

The Dream Cruises ship will make its first call in Newcastle of six scheduled visits over the 2019-2020 season, Dream’s first in Australia.

Following maritime tradition, the Port of Newcastle and the captain of the Explorer Dream will exchange a commemorative plaque on the ship’s bridge to mark the maiden voyage.

The captain will then assist in the firing of a cannon at Fort Scratchley in the afternoon before departing.

A team of 38 Newcastle cruise volunteers will provide passengers with a friendly welcome to ensure they get the most out of their time in the city.

Newcastle will in total welcome 15 cruise ships over the 2019-2020 season, including three maiden calls.

 The port could set a new record of more than 30,000 cruise passengers.

The port has this year invested a further $250,000 in upgrades to its channel berth infrastructure to enhance the customer experience.