Cruise ship season brings economic boost to the region
TOURISM
As the tourist season begins to wind down, the Douglas Shire will experience a new wave of visitors and a large economic boost as the peak ocean cruising season in Tropical North Queensland begins.
In the coming months 24,500 tourists, along with thousands more staff, will disembark from cruise ships passing through Port Douglas bringing millions of dollars with them.
Last year, nearly $7.8 million was injected into the Douglas Shire’s economy from the 22 ships, 31,493 passengers and 1,859 crew that stopped in Port Douglas.
Tara Bennett, executive officer at Tourism Port Douglas Daintree (TPDD), said Port Douglas continues to be a popular stopover with nine boats scheduled to visit over the next three months.
“The natural beauty of the region is high on a visitor’s wish list. Port Douglas and Daintree tourism operators and our local tourism ambassadors have done a lot of hard work beforehand to ensure every passenger who visits Port Douglas and Daintree leaves having had a great experience," she said.
“For shore excursions, visitors have a lot to choose from, including exploring the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, a half-day visit to the Great Barrier Reef, sightseeing, shopping or being pampered in one of the luxury spas.”
Ms Bennett said TPDD would continue to work year-round to meet cruise ship operators at travel and trade shows as well as hosting representatives in the region on familiarisations.
“The excellent feedback every year from the industry demonstrates Port Douglas Daintree continues to be a highlight.”
The Majestic Princess is the next boat to dock off Port Douglas today and will be one of the largest of the season with 3,611 passengers.
The peak season concludes with the arrival of Pacific Dawn on 4 December.
Keep updated with when the cruise ships will be docked in Port Douglas through Newsport’s What’sOn calendar.
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