Fantasea to relocate to the new Port of Airlie precinct

Award winning cruise operator, Fantasea Adventure Cruising are moving their ferry terminal to Meridien's Port of Airlie development in Airlie Beach.

Relocating from Shute Harbour, the new Fantasea ferry terminal will service the Airlie Beach community as the closest stepping off point for island hoppers.

The fleet of air conditioned, high-speed catamarans are fitted for day cruises and ferry operations around the Whitsundays.

Construction on the new integrated ferry and bus terminal will commence later this year, due to become operational early next year. This will make guest access easier for approximately 450,000 people that Fantasea take cruising annually.

Fantasea's General Manager, Michelle Rynne stated "we decided to make the move to Port of Airlie due to the overall success of the planned precinct.

"We believe Port of Airlie is a great step forward for the Airlie Beach region.

"The new Fantasea ferry terminal will attract a great number of tourists to the Airlie Beach region as it will be the direct access point from Hamilton Island Airport and the Whitsunday Coast Airport."

The Queensland Government has set aside $7 million to upgrade the terminal of the Whitsunday Coast Airport. These much needed upgrades should see an increased number of tourists to the region and with Port of Airlieâs vision anchoring one of the townâs two ports of call the Whitsunday Coast will be a mecca for boating enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Rynne added "we believe with seamless travel from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane to Hamilton Island Airport and the Whitsunday Coast, then a direct ferry transfer to the new ferry terminal we will attract more interest to Port of Airlie and subsequently Airlie Beach."

Fantasea expects to see their business grow after the move to Port of Airlie.

Rynne continued "the new terminals ideal location within the Port of Airlie precinct, close proximity to the Airlie Beach town and the adjoining bus transit centre will contribute to the growth of Fantasea over the coming years"

Port of Airlie Project Manager, John Warlow said "we are excited to have such a renowned cruise operator onboard that is synonymous with the North Queensland region."

A boating paradise, Port of Airlie will be the new gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the 74 islands of the Whitsundays. The $750 million development is destined to become a world-class destination that will also include a first-class 289 berth marina catering to all boat sizes including superyachts, as well as 141 luxury resort hotel suites, 365 residential apartments, 15 oceanfront homes, public boardwalk, 240 metre all-tide public beach, heliport and retail and commercial space.