kabarsula Newcastle set for record cruise season with 18 ships bandar SLOT INDONESIA

Newcastle has kicked off its biggest cruise season on record, with Crown Princess arriving in the harbour today as the first of 18 ships due between October and April.

The season, which includes five maiden calls, is expected to bring more than 30,000 cruise visitors to the region.

Crown Princess is 290 metres long and carries more than 3000 passengers and 1200 crew.

Port Authority of NSW chief executive John McKenna said long-term growth in regional cruise was benefiting local communities, with visitation to Newcastle up by about 13% a year on average over the past decade.

“Cruise schedules naturally fluctuate from year to year, but it’s fantastic to see Newcastle welcoming its biggest cruise season on record this year,” he said.

“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.”

The Newcastle Cruise Memorandum of Understanding brings together Port Authority, Destination Sydney Surrounds North, Newcastle Tourism Industry Group (NTIG) and seven local councils – Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Maitland, Cessnock, Singleton and Central Coast – to promote the region to visiting ships.

Local attractions

Passengers are expected to head to attractions including Newcastle’s coastal precincts, Hunter Valley wineries, the Chocolate Factory on the Central Coast, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, and dolphin watching and sand dune experiences off Port Stephens.

Destination Sydney Surrounds North general manager Glenn Caldwell said a cruise visit was often a traveller’s first taste of the region.

“Recent passenger survey results have been overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “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.”

NTIG secretary Stewart Ford said the city’s Welcome Volunteers were playing an important role in helping passengers make the most of their time ashore.

He said a $3000 grant from Port Authority’s Community Grants Program had helped the group recruit 30 new volunteers, update signage and produce new tourist maps.