Cruise Ship Tourism recommences in Northern Territory

Cruise Ship Tourism has recommenced in the Northern Territory with the arrival yesterday of the stunning expedition cruise ship Silver Explorer at Darwin Port.

Expedition ships are smaller in size and offer all-inclusive boutique-style cruises, providing an intimate frontier-style exploration of the dramatic coastlines of Northern Australia.

The 144 guest luxury expedition cruise ship arrived on its maiden voyage to Darwin, with a plaque exchange to commemorate the occasion taking place 3rd June 2022.

Newly appointed Northern TerritoryMinister for Tourism and Hospitality, Nicole Manison notes “cruise ship tourism provides a big boost the Territory economy and prior to Covid-19 it generated around $60 million of annual expenditure within the Northern Territory.

“We know cruise passengers spend at local businesses including retail outlets, cafes and restaurants, while enjoying tourism experiences that showcase the Territory.

“There are 40 expedition ship visits scheduled for Darwin between now and 30th September, across four companies, using seven vessels.

“The Northern Territory was the first jurisdiction in Australia to welcome back international expedition vessels and we are delighted to host Silver Explorer and her guests.”

Today, the ship leaves Darwin to commence a string of journeys between the Northern Territory and Western Australian waters, with its final departure from Darwin on 6th September to Cairns. In total, Silver Explorer will berth in Darwin five times this dry season.

During this time Silver Explorer passengers will embark and disembark in Darwin, doubling the number of cruise ship visitors to Darwin.

The ship’s luxury expedition cruise itineraries will include both 10 day Darwin to Broome and Broome to Darwin itineraries, and 17 day Darwin to Fremantle and Fremantle to Darwin itineraries.

Silversea Managing Director for Asia-Pacific, Adam Radwanski added “Silversea’s inaugural sailing from Darwin is a special moment for me, both personally and professionally, as it is also the first sailing in more than two years in Australian waters.”

“The Kimberley region is amongst the most treasured in the world and we are thrilled to offer Silversea’s unparalleled signature ultra-luxury expedition experience to our valued guests.”

The Northern Territory Cruise Tourism Strategy 2022-2025 was launched last month, providing a roadmap to regrow the industry over the next three years.

Nicole Manison was appointed Deputy Chief Minister while also taking on the tourism portfolio late last month when Northern Territory Chief Minister Natasha Fyles named her new cabinet following the resignation of Michael Gunner.

To view the upcoming cruise ship arrivals to Darwin Port visit darwinport.com.au or to learn more about the cruise market and view the NT Cruise Tourism Strategy go to tourismnt.com.au/strategies

Image Credit Discover Australia