Industry prepares for record season

Industry prepares for record season
By admin


Regional Australia is cashing in on the cruise boom as smaller ports look to share in the growth of the sector.

With the industry preparing for another record season, cruise leaders said lesser known ports such as Eden in New South Wales and Robe in South Australia are taking advantage of cruising’s popularity.

A record 34 ships will ply local waters this season between October 1 and April 30 – one more than last year – making 588 ports of calls, up from 559.

A total of 15 cruise ships will operate 202 round trip voyages from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle, 10% more than 2012/13.

“As cruising grows in popularity we’re seeing new opportunities open up for smaller ports along our coast to share in that growth and build their local tourism,” Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) general manager Brett Jardine said.

“It’s a win-win. Passengers love the new destinations and different ports, while communities benefit from the economic value each ship brings as passengers take in the sights and enjoy local tours and shopping.”

Each ship visit can generate $500,000 for a port, he added.

News of the impending launch of another record season comes at the launch of National Cruise Week, with CLIA members offering promotions and deals from today until September 9.

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