Minister for Tourism and Hospitality
Media Release
Cruise ships to inject $65 million into Territory economy this year
6 February 2024
A Grand-class cruise ship the Pacific Adventure operated by P&O Cruises sailed into Darwin Port this morning on its maiden voyage carrying just over 2,660 passengers and 1,103 crew.
Tourism Top End ambassadors were on hand to greet the passengers and crew disembarking to explore Darwin and surrounds, providing information on the array of tours and experiences on offer from local shops and cafes to jumping croc cruises and more.
The cruise ship industry is expected to inject $65 million to the Territory’s economy during the 2023-24 cruise season, creating jobs and supporting local tour operators, retailers and the hospitality industry.
103 cruise and expedition ships are expected to visit Darwin this season with a total passenger capacity of 60,000 cruisers.
Today’s arrival provides a boost for Darwin tourism operators, retailers and hospitality businesses with many passengers eager to disembark and explore Darwin and surrounds.
The 13-night Sydney to Singapore itinerary has the ship arriving from Airlie Beach and will head to Indonesia before arriving in Singapore on 13 February.
The Pacific Adventure is P&O’s largest Australian ship featuring 1,318 cabins, a spa, gym, water slide, nightclub and more.
The Northern Territory Cruise Tourism Strategy 2022-2025 provides a clear roadmap to grow the industry over the next three years and maximise benefits for Territorians.
To view the upcoming cruise ship arrivals to Darwin Port visit darwinport.com.au here or to learn more about the cruise market and view the NT Cruise Tourism Strategy go to tourismnt.com.au/strategies here
Quotes to attribute to Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Joel Bowden:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Pacific Adventure passengers and crew to Darwin and give them a taste of our fantastic Northern Territory, whether it’s our authentic Aboriginal culture, taking in our military history or checking out our unique flora and fauna, the NT has something for everyone.
“The cruise ship industry makes a significant contribution to the local economy – cruise passengers dine in our cafes and restaurants, shop at local retailers and of course book tours to explore our beautiful tropical city and beyond.
“With cruise tourism estimated to contribute a massive $65 million into our economy and bring over 60,000 visitors over the 2023-24 cruise season.
Quotes to attribute to P&O Cruises Australia Interim President Peter Little:
“We are delighted P&O’s Pacific Adventure has arrived on its maiden voyage to Darwin this morning. The warm welcome from Tourism Top End ambassadors reflects the vibrant spirit of this tropical city and we are excited to be showcasing the unique charm of Darwin and its surrounds to all our guests.
“We look forward to the continued growth of the cruising industry, creating jobs and supporting local businesses in locations we visit, and are proud to be part of Darwin’s tourism success.”
