The Port Authority of NSW has announced that the arrival of the Crown Princess in Newcastle Harbor has launched a cruise season expected to bring more than 30,000 cruise tourists over the coming months.
The port authority said in a press release that the Crown Princess is the first of a record 18 cruise ships scheduled to dock in Newcastle between October and April, including five maiden arrivals, making it the city’s biggest cruise season to date.
Supporting this growth is the Newcastle Cruise Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which brings together Port Authority, Destination Sydney Surrounds North, Newcastle Tourism Industry Group and seven local councils to promote the region and grow its tourist offerings for visiting cruise ships.
Port Authority of NSW CEO John McKenna said the long-term development of cruise in regional NSW was having a positive impact on local communities.
“Cruise schedules naturally fluctuate from year to year, but it’s fantastic to see Newcastle welcoming its biggest cruise season on record this year,” McKenna said.
“Over the longer term, cruise visitation to Newcastle has increased steadily by around 13 percent on average year-on-year, over the past decade,” added McKenna.
“We’re proud to safely pilot these vessels into Newcastle and continue to support industry and government efforts to strengthen the region’s appeal as a key cruise destination through the MoU partnership.”
Destination Sydney Surrounds North General Manager Glenn Caldwell said Newcastle’s growing reputation as a cruise destination was helping introduce more visitors to the region.
“A cruise visit is often a traveler’s first taste of Newcastle and the surrounding regions, and we’re seeing growing interest in the incredible experiences available both on the coast and across the broader region,” Caldwell said.
“Recent passenger survey results have been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the strong impressions visitors are taking away from their time in the region.
“With cruise estimated to contribute around $20 million to the local economy each year, every ship visit provides an opportunity for all of us to showcase what makes this part of NSW such a compelling destination and encourage visitors to return in the future.”
Newcastle Tourism Industry Group Secretary Stewart Ford said: “With a record number of visitors expected this season, support from Port Authority’s Community Grants Program has helped us recruit 30 new volunteers, update our signage and provide new tourist maps to help passengers explore the city and surrounding region.”
