PORTS North has is expecting a record cruise season for Cairns with 99 ships expected to visit the port this year.  

The port is on track to see a 22% increase in passenger and crew arrivals by the end of February – a total of 30,000 visitors in the first two months of the year.

Ports North general manager of strategy Paul Doyle said the figures reflect continued growth in visitation in response to the region’s appeal.

“With 99 cruise ships scheduled to arrive this year, 2025 is shaping up as a bumper year for cruise visitation bringing an influx of visitors and significantly boosting the local economy,” Mr Doyle said.

“Cairns is continuing to strengthen its place as a world-class destination for travellers and Ports North continues to work proactively with [Tourism Tropical North Queensland] and the tourism industry across our region to ensure we continue to be a choice for cruise operators and travellers alike.”

Cruise ships Amadea, Norwegian Sun, Nautica and Seven Seas Voyager are expected among the newcomers to Cairns this year, all due to arrive in the coming months.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen said there had been a 40% increase in the economic value of cruise ships visiting Cairns, Port Douglas and Yorkeys Knob in 2023-24.

“Economic data gathered by the Australian Cruise Association shows the 231,517 passenger days and 29,682 crew in 2023-24 generated a $213.7 million boost to the economy,” he said.

“Smaller ports in Tropical North Queensland also receive a tourism boost with 10 cruise ship days in Cooktown, seven at Lizard Island and 12 at Thursday Island last financial year.

“The cruise market is a much-needed addition to our summer shoulder season bringing in strong visitor numbers for operators working in that market.”

Mr Olsen said the figures should continue to grow.

QLD minister for trade Ros Bates said the state government is excited by the growth in the tourism and port sectors in Far North Queensland.

“The long-term future of cruise into Far North Queensland is very bright and ensuring we continue to roll out the welcome mat for the Cruise Industry that contributes over $5 billion annually in Australia and supports over 18,000 jobs remains one of our priorities,” he said.