Port welcomes back the Big Boats
The return of Cruise Ships
It’s all hands-on deck for local business as the Douglas Shire prepares to welcome back the return of cruise ships to the sought-after holiday port Thursday 30 June 2022.
Coral Princess will make her maiden call to the region as the first of the big boats that will once again fill Port Douglas’ streets and parks with the hustle and bustle of nearly 2000 lanyard-laden tourists and crew looking to spend in the town’s shops, restaurants and exploring the local attractions.
With the massive ship mooring in the nearby Coral Sea, her vision is an inspiring and emotional wave towards normalcy as the region continues to work to rebuild its tourism economy. A celebrated launch after the cruise ship industry was forced into an abrupt two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions.
However, it’s not just about making the cash register ring but the vibrancy these passengers bring to Port Douglas, the activity of the people that come here and contribute to the life of the town.
OPEN ARMS WITH MARINA MERRIMENT
From early morning on 30 June, the day-long parade of passengers will be greeted by tourism volunteers and tour operators with much fanfare at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina.
Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree (TPDD), Tara Bennet, said TPDD is reinstating its cruise ship greeting program which has been on hold since the industry went into hibernation.
“The program includes volunteers greeting passengers with maps and local advice on how to make the most of their short time in the region.
“On Thursday we hope to have live music, tour operators with cruise ship-specific tours to explore the region, wildlife demonstrations, and the marina markets will also be there,” said Ms Bennet.
For passengers aboard their bucket list cruises when they arrive to the Douglas Shire the natural beauty puts a smile on their faces but it’s the charm and friendliness of the locals that puts a song in their hearts that yearn for them to return.
Ms Bennet went on to say, “cruise ship passengers have a high propensity to return to a region on holiday if they’ve had a great experience so it’s vital, we put our best foot forward.
“For our community, this means helping out anyone looking a little lost, retailers opening earlier, where possible with ample staff and the warm welcome our region is famous for,” said Ms Bennet.
OPTIMISTIC OPERATORS, A STEP FORWARD
Clare Anderson, General Manager at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas said, they would be out and about welcoming cruise ship visitors with special wildlife appearances to amuse passengers.
“I am delighted to welcome cruise ships back to our region and park.
“Many of our team have not experienced the thrill of welcoming large groups of visitors nor felt the buzz of excitement from these holidaymakers as they experience the highlights we have to offer.
“Cruise ships are just another facet of normality for the tourism town.
“They inject welcome business into our community for tourism, retail, and hospitality sectors. This is just another step forward in returning positive sentiment to the town for the return of a booming tourism industry,” said Ms Anderson.
Andrea Cameron, owner-operator of Brett's Kuranda Day Tours said, they are very excited to see the cruise ships back in town.
“The vibe that it creates for many businesses and the first time visit to Port Douglas for many that will then fall in love with our beautiful tropical village and return for a holiday,” said Ms Cameron.
Lady Douglas River Cruise owner, Kate Agrums said her team will be down at the marina to welcome the first passengers.
“Lady Douglas has always benefited from the cruise ships,” said Ms Agrums.
IT'S AN EXTRA SPECIAL FEELING WHEN THE TOWN IS BUZZING
For those who have just relocated to the Douglas Shire, Port Douglas is a tourist town where the visitation of docked tourists is essential to people whose livelihoods rely on the regular arrival of ships.
“Over the winter season, Coral Princess will make nine calls to Port Douglas,” said Ariane Krug, PR consultant for Coral Princess.
“It is expected to generate $4.9M for the local economy,” Krug continued.
Ms Bennett said, for new residents cruise ships bring an influx of visitors to the region.
“Many will be pre-booked on tours to the Daintree, Kuranda, and Great Barrier Reef while others will spend the day exploring Port Douglas with tell-tale lanyards in place.
“The first visit on the 30th will be an extremely busy kick-off for Port Douglas combining up to 1,800 passengers and crew on top of Australian school holidaymakers,” said Ms Bennet.
Residents new and old are encouraged to give a heartfelt welcome to our new visitors, enjoy a conversation with the cruise tourists, take the time and offer a local’s “insider tip” while they get a taste of our adored community, this signature Douglas hospitality might be the nudge for them to plan their next holiday back.