OVATION of the Seas has become the largest cruise ship ever to call Port of Eden, following government approval of planning modifications that open the port to larger vessels.
The 348-metre-long Royal Caribbean cruise ship made its maiden call to Eden on Saturday (22 February) with 4862 passengers on board.
Port of Eden can now receive visits from vessels of up to 370 metres in length. The limit had been 325 metres until the NSW government last year approved a planning modification to the Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension.
The modification approval also removed the cap on the frequency of cruise ship calls, which had been 60 visits per season.
Ovation of the Seas is one of 25 ships to call Eden this summer cruise season, 12 of which are maiden visits.
Port Authority of New South Wales anticipates more than 40,000 passengers and 20,000 crew will inject millions of dollars into the local economy.
“This is an exciting era for regional cruise tourism as some of the world’s biggest cruise ships can now add Eden onto their itineraries, with NSW leading the charge as the cruise capital of Australia,” Port Authority acting CEO John McKenna said.
“The arrival of Ovation of the Seas is a direct result of our work with the local community, business and stakeholders and the planning modifications the NSW government approved to allow larger vessels to berth at Snug Cove, enabling Port Authority to bring in thousands more passengers each year,” he said.
“Our expert marine pilots and operations staff are key to safely bringing in these larger ships into port, creating a seamless start to exploring this beautiful region.”
Port Authority general manager of cruise Martin Bidgood said the benefits of cruise tourism would ripple through the entire Sapphire Coast region.
“Ovation of the Seas brings a massive boost to Eden and will see a surge in business for cafes, retailers, tour operators and more,” he said.
“Eden is well and truly on the map as a must-visit destination, and Ovation’s visit is a fantastic opportunity to share the stunning coastline, history, and warm South Coast hospitality with so many new visitors.”
