Bumper cruise season sets sail

  • 20 October 2019
Darwin Waterfront
The arrival of the Explorer Dream signals the start of a bumper Top End cruise season expected to inject millions into the economy.

Carrying up to 2,800 passengers, the Explorer Dream is making its maiden visit to Darwin and will return in March for an overnight stay.

More than 64,000 visitors are expected over the season with 76 cruise ship visits over the next six months.

Other highlights for the season are four other ships that will port in Darwin on their maiden visits including Carnival Splendor on 2 December 2019, Boudicca on 14 January 2020, Queen Elizabeth on 17 March 2020 and MSC Magnifica on 30 March 2020.

The Coral Adventurer continues to home port in Darwin, providing an important injection into the Territory economy with local businesses providing food and beverage supplies, technical services, fuel and other essential services.

Cruise ships are an important part of the Top End tourism sector, injecting millions into the economy each year.

Crucially, the cruise season runs over the traditionally quieter low season providing a welcome revenue boost for operators and retailers over that period with passengers undertaking tours, visiting local attractions and shopping at local retail outlets, cafes and restaurants.

With its tropical climate, Darwin enjoys year-round cruise activity, with larger ships visiting during the main season from October-March, and several small, luxury expedition cruise ships using Darwin as a home-base from April-September.

Find out more about our cruise marketing here.

Page last updated on 10 January 2020