Cruise industry forum sees attendees explore Northern Territory opportunities

The 2024 Territory Cruise Forum was held on 8th May at the Vibe Hotel in Darwin during which attendees explored opportunities within the Northern Territory cruise sector.

The Australian Cruise Association, representatives from cruise liners Carnival Australia and Silversea Cruises, Tourism NT, Tourism Top End and over 100 local businesses came together for the annual Territory Cruise Forum.

The 2024 Territory Cruise Forum delivered presentations from the Australian Cruise Association, Carnival Australia, Silversea Cruises and inbound operators specialising in shore excursions and cruise itineraries.

Attendees gained insights from industry experts and had the opportunity to connect and present their products directly with cruise lines and their shore excursion providers.

Jill Abel, Chief Executive of Australian Cruise Association shared “What a successful event it was and how spreading the knowledge with local businesses and stakeholders is vital in growing the economic benefits to the region.

"Cruise continues to grow as an important part of the visitor economy in the Northern Territory and Australian Cruise Association is pleased to play its part in this growth.”

The geographic location of the Top End and its close proximity to Asia makes Darwin an ideal Australian gateway port for visiting international cruise ships with Darwin enjoying year-round cruise activity.

During the main cruise season of October to March, Darwin welcomes many of the larger cruise ships with April to September seeing a number of smaller luxury expedition cruise ships using Darwin as a base to explore the remote Northern Australian coastline.

The Pacific Explorer will return to Darwin this Sunday for the second time this season bringing over 2,900 passengers and crew who will have the chance to spend the day exploring Darwin City and further afield to the Jumping Crocodile Cruises, Litchfield National Park and Darwin military tours.

The Territory has had its largest cruise season yet, with more than 100 ships docking in Darwin over the last 12 months.

The Territory’s cruise industry is worth over $65 million to the local economy annually, creating jobs and supporting local tour operators, retailers and the hospitality industry.

To view upcoming cruise ship arrivals click here.