FEBRUARY is shaping up to be a record-breaking year for cruise in South Australia, with 36 cruise ships scheduled to call this month.
State minister for trade, tourism and investment David Ridgway said the ships due to call at South Australia include Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth and Silversea Cruises’ newest flagship, Silver Muse.
“Never before have we seen so many cruise ships come to South Australia in one month,” he said.
“All up this season (October 2018 to March 2019) we will see 84 cruise ships dock in ports across South Australia – a 23% increase on last year, which will generate more than $118m for the state’s economy.”
The month begins with the arrival of P&O’s, Pacific Eden at Kangaroo Island – one of 12 cruise ships to dock there – and includes another 19 ships at the Port Adelaide Passenger Terminal, while Port Lincoln will welcome five.
“Port Lincoln will actually enjoy its first ever double header with two ships, the Astor and the Pacific Jewel in port on one day (February 20) in what will be a very busy time for the region,’’ Mr Ridgway said.
March is also busy for cruises in the state, with 12 cruise ships scheduled – including Port Lincoln’s first overnight stop, with the Astor staying over from March 2 to 3, and a maiden visit by the Viking Sun concluding a record season of 84 cruise ships visiting the state.
