What’s happening?
Port of Townsville has wrapped up its most successful cruise season yet, welcoming 21 ships between November 2024 and April 2025. Over 30,000 passengers and crew visited, injecting nearly $7 million into the local economy.
Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby said the port had reached new milestones thanks to recent infrastructure upgrades.
“We are delighted to welcome Norwegian Sun back to our Port today, following her maiden voyage to the city on Easter Monday,” she said.
“She is carrying up to 2,400 passengers and 900 crew who will spend the day exploring the best our region has to offer.”
Why it matters?
The cruise season not only revitalised local tourism but also set the stage for future growth. This marks the first season where large-class cruise ships accessed the Port after the $251 million Channel Upgrade.
“The Norwegian Cruise Lines ship is one of three large-class cruise vessels which have been able to access our Port for the first time this season, bringing triple the number of passengers that had ever arrived on any one ship,” Ms Crosby added.
Local Impact
The spending from cruise passengers and crew supported local operators during a typically quiet season, particularly after a period of flooding and rain.
Lisa Woolfe, Director of Visitor Economy and Marketing at Townsville Enterprise, said, “Our cruise season has been an absolute lifeline for some tourism operators at the start of this year.”
She added, “The cruise season is critical for our region; it provides a welcomed boost to our tourism economy during what is traditionally a low season.”
By the Numbers:
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21 ships visited Townsville from November 2024 to April 2025
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Over 30,000 passengers and crew arrived
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Nearly $7 million spent in the region on tours, food, and retail
Zoom In
The Port completed a $5.9 million upgrade to the Quayside Terminal’s bus and taxi rank to streamline cruise visitor access. These upgrades were crucial for managing the increased traffic from larger cruise ships and ensuring a seamless guest experience.
Surveys show high guest satisfaction, with cruise visitors scoring Townsville an average of 4 out of 5. Popular day trips included Magnetic Island, Charters Towers, and Hinchinbrook. Attractions like Billabong Sanctuary and The Strand continue to shine.
“Our guests truly are ‘up for unexpected’ and have been delighted to explore the natural beauty our region has to offer,” Ms Woolfe noted.
Zoom Out
The success of the 2024–25 season puts Townsville firmly on the map as a cruise destination of choice. The improved facilities and strong passenger feedback demonstrate the region’s growing capability to host larger and more frequent visits.
What To Look For Next?
The 2025–26 cruise season already has 26 ships booked, with arrivals starting as early as July.
“As more cruise lines are looking to visit our city, the seasons are getting longer,” Ms Crosby said. “This year we will welcome our first cruise passengers in early July, a time of year when Townsville really shines.”
