The arrivalof the Explorer Dream in Darwin today signals the start of the Top End cruiseseason which is expected to bring over 64,000 visitors and inject millions intothe Territory economy over the next 12 months.
Carrying upto 2,800 passengers, the Explorer Dream is making its maiden visit to Darwinand will return in March for an overnight stay.
Seventy-six cruiseand expeditionary ships are scheduled this season, providing a boost to theeconomy and an opportunity to showcase the Territory to international visitors.
With its tropical climate, Darwin enjoys year-roundcruise activity, with larger ships visiting during the main season fromOctober-March, and several small, luxury expedition cruise ships using Darwinas a home-base to explore the remote Northern Australian coastline fromApril-September.
Four otherships will also port in Darwin on their maiden visits including CarnivalSplendor on 2 December 2019, Boudicca on 14 January 2020, Queen Elizabeth on 17March 2020 and MSC Magnifica on 30 March 2020.
The CoralAdventurer continues to home port in Darwin, providing an important injectioninto the Territory economy with local businesses providing food and beveragesupplies, technical services, fuel and other essential services.
As noted by Minister for Tourism, Sport andCulture, Lauren Moss:
Cruiseships are an important part of the Top End tourism sector, injecting millionsinto the economy each year.
Crucially,the cruise season runs over the traditionally quieter low season providing awelcome revenue boost for operators and retailers over that period.
Cruiseships stimulate the Territory economy by providing an influx of tourists intoour region with passengers and crew undertaking tours, visiting localattractions and shopping at local retail outlets, cafes and restaurants.
As noted by Tourism Top End General Manager,Glen Hingley:
Darwin is a great destinationfor cruise ship passengers to explore on their stop-over, giving them a smalltaste of the Top End so that they come back to holiday in the Territory againand for longer.
With a fantastic harbourfacility and proactive tourism industry, Tourism Top End sees the future ofcruise ship arrivals into Darwin continuing to be a growing boom for theeconomy of the Top End.
