A commemorative plaque has been presented by Captain Claus Andersen of the Royal Caribbean International cruise line to Port Douglas officials this week in recognition of Radiance of the Seas’ first visit to Port Douglas.

Tourism Port Douglas Daintree executive Officer Doug Ryan, Councillor for Division 10 Julia Leu, Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce representative Za Harricharan and Port Douglas Meriden Marina General Manager Jason Roles were invited onboard Radiance of the Seas for a tour of the ship and presentation of the plaques.

Despite tough weather conditions, Captain Andersen was determined to anchor in Port Douglas so passengers could experience the region.

“It was an amazing ship and despite the conditions thousands of passengers were keen to get ashore,” Mr Ryan said.

“Captain Andersen was able to anchor one kilometre off the coast, which is the closest anchorage point a large vessel such as this has anchored.”

Cr Leu said the influx of passengers would be a fillip for local businesses.

"This is really fabulous for your local economy. Passengers went on local tours to the Daintree, opened up their wallets in local shops and enjoyed a leisurely stroll around the waterfront."

The Royal Caribbean International fleet visits more than 280 destinations across the world in more than 20 ships and will return to Port Douglas in February next year.

Port Douglas will see an extra five ships coming to the region in 2012 with 26 confirmed cruise ships docking. 

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