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With a year-round season, Darwin’s cruise
business is stable as the port remains a homeport for small expedition ships
sailing Australia’s northern coastline for Arnhem Land and the Kimberley region.
“Last year, we welcomed the Silver Discoverer on her maiden voyage, and she
returns at the end of this season for Kimberley itineraries,” said Richard
Schoonraad, manager of market development for Tourism NT. “We will also welcome
the Caledonia Sky and Queen Mary 2, which is coming just after the official
cruise season in May.”
For cruise ships sailing to Australia from Asia, Darwin is usually the first
port of call thanks to its central location on Australia’s northern coastline.
“On circumnavigations of Australia, Darwin is a popular port as there are
usually two or three days at sea either side of us,” added Schoonraad.
This 2014/2015 season, a new bunkering company will start service in Darwin, and
the harbor approach has been dredged from 10 meters to 14.
“Every cruise vessel is met by a team of volunteer tourism ambassadors at the
Darwin Cruise Ship Terminal,” Schoonraad continued. “These happy volunteers are
on hand to answer questions about the town, distribute maps and tourism
information and generally provide a friendly welcome to all visitors.” |
