New South Wales has embarked on its most lucrative cruise season yet, with the 2023-24 season generating a record $4.41 billion for the state’s economy—a 60.4% increase compared to the previous financial year.
This figure, released by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), surpasses pre-pandemic levels, cementing NSW’s position as Australia’s cruise capital.
This season, 1.2 million passengers and crew from 312 cruise ship visits are expected to arrive at NSW ports, bringing unprecedented economic and tourism benefits. Sydney remains the hub of cruise activity, but regional areas also ride the wave of growth.
The Sapphire Coast is set to welcome 25 cruise ship visits at the Port of Eden, delivering 43,000 passengers and 20,000 crew and contributing an estimated $12 million to the local economy.
Newcastle is preparing for 12 cruise ship visits, bringing 12,500 passengers and 6,500 crew, boosting businesses in the Hunter region and nearby coastal towns.
The industry is also creating jobs, with a 50% surge in employment supporting 13,714 full-time roles across NSW in 2023-24.
Transport Minister Jo Haylen highlighted the state’s dominance in the sector: “NSW is Australia’s Capital of Cruise, with more than half of our nation’s cruise spend retained right here in the NSW economy. This season we’ll see 23 maiden ship arrivals at our ports, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors eager to explore Sydney and our regional gems.”
New cruise lines like Virgin Voyages, Disney Cruise Line, and Scenic have entered the Australian market this season, alongside established operators like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and P&O Cruises Australia.
CLIA Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz praised the industry’s resurgence: “Cruise tourism is now worth $8.43 billion annually to the Australian economy, supporting over 26,000 jobs and driving growth for local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.”
With Australia recording nearly 4.3 million passenger visit days in 2023-24, ACA CEO Jill Abel emphasized the long-term benefits: “Many passengers return to destinations they discover on cruises, generating ongoing revenue for communities.”
